Protect Louisiana's Coastal Master Plan

After the devastating effects of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, Louisiana's first Coastal Master Plan (CMP) was passed in 2007. In the 18 years since, the state has used the CMP as the "guiding document of CPRA and our efforts to protect and restore the Louisiana coast, built on a solid foundation of scientific and engineering principles." By creating and following its rigorous and transparently developed plan, Louisiana has built major, effective coastal projects and secured billions in outside investment.

The CMP is the core of Louisiana's coastal program, which has been built on prioritizing science and public good over politics. These principles have made our coastal program one of the best in the world, but they are now in jeopardy.

Recent comments by Governor Landry signal a dramatic shift in that science-based philosophy and it's time to step up to protect Louisiana's coast. The keystone project in Louisiana's Coastal Master Plan, the Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion (MBSD), is under attack by Governor Landry. The MBSD is the most studied and most important project in Louisiana. This project will reconnect the Mississippi River with its sediment-starved wetlands to build new wetlands and sustain nearby marsh.

The overwhelming public support for the Mid-Barataria hasn't changed. The need for Mid-Barataria has only become more urgent. Only the politics has changed - and that is deeply concerning for Louisiana's future.

It's time to step up to protect Louisiana's coast. Tell the Governor there's no space for politics when it comes to restoring our coast.