Urges the Department of Natural Resources in conjunction with the Pointe Coupee Parish Police Jury to assume the role of lead local sponsor for the "False River Aquatic Resources Ecosystem Restoration Project"
Impact
If adopted, HCR168 would recognize the need for coordinated efforts to combat the environmental challenges facing False River. It emphasizes the importance of collaboration among various state and local agencies to develop effective strategies for restoring the lake's ecosystem. The resolution also calls for an expeditious completion of a critical preliminary ecosystem study by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which has faced delays in funding and staffing. This study is crucial for outlining restoration strategies and estimating associated costs.
Summary
House Concurrent Resolution 168 (HCR168) urges the Department of Natural Resources in Louisiana, along with the Pointe Coupee Parish Police Jury, to take the lead on the False River Aquatic Resources Ecosystem Restoration Project. False River is a significant natural resource known for its recreational value and scenic beauty, which includes fishing, boating, and birding. The resolution is in response to increasing water quality issues affecting the area due to runoff from development and agriculture, which threatens the ecosystem and local economy reliant on the lake's health.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HCR168 is largely supportive, recognizing the necessity of ecological restoration and habitat improvement for False River. Stakeholders appear to prioritize the long-term benefits of preserving the area's natural resources over immediate economic gains that might result from less regulatory oversight. There is a sense of urgency expressed by proponents of the resolution, highlighting that timely action is essential for the lake's health and, consequently, the economic prosperity of the community.
Contention
Although widespread support exists for HCR168, there may be underlying tensions related to funding and resource allocations. The projected local match for funding is estimated to be around 2.5 million dollars, raising concerns regarding budget constraints and the competition for state resources among various environmental projects. Furthermore, while the resolution calls for state agency collaboration, the efficiency and effectiveness of such partnerships will be critical to the project's success.
Transfers the responsibilities of the Atchafalaya Basin Research and Promotion Board and the Atchafalaya Basin Program from within the Department of Natural Resources to the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority. (7/1/18) (EN SEE FISC NOTE SD EX See Note)
Require the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources to assemble a task force to study the adoption of a watershed ecosystems management approach.
Requests the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority in conjunction with the Department of Natural Resources to document the costs of complying with Section 404 of the Clean Water Act in public infrastructure projects in the state of Louisiana.
Reaffirming The State's Obligation To Uphold The Constitutional Rights Of Its People By Recognizing The Critical Role Of Freshwater In Maintaining Healthy Nearshore Marine Ecosystems.