Freshwater Bayou II
Implementing Organization
Ducks Unlimited, Inc.
Overview
DWH Project Funding
$1,000,000
Known Leveraged Funding
$0
Funding Organization
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)
Funding Program
North American Wetlands Conservation Act NAWCA
Details
Project Category
Environmental
Project Actions
Habitat Restoration and Enhancement
Targeted Resources
Wetlands/Marshes/Estuaries
Project Description
This project will repair embankments along the Freshwater Bayou Navigation Channel. Geotextile fabric will be used beneath embankment material to ensure hydrologic integrity. Turf reinforced matting, rock riprap, and marsh vegetation plantings will be used to prevent erosion. The project will enhance the hydrologic integrity of the tract and complement other efforts to stabilize the shoreline and prevent erosion of the adjacent marsh. Improved hydrologic integrity and reduced erosion will enhance habitat quality for a variety of wildlife and fish species. Louisiana's coastal wetlands are critical natural resources and the economic driver of the region. Coastal wetlands protect infrastructure from hurricanes, storm surge, support valuable industries including petroleum extraction and commercial fisheries, sustain Louisiana's culture and recreational activities, provide nursery grounds for fish and shellfish, and provide breeding, migration, and wintering habitat for millions of waterfowl and other bird species. However, Louisiana also has the highest coastal wetland loss rate of any state in the U.S., between 25 to 35 square miles a year. Since the 1930s, Louisiana has lost over 1.2 million acres of coastal wetlands and is expected to lose an additional 1.4 million acres over the next 50 years.
Contact
Cassidy Lejeune3374083288
clejeune@ducks.org
Project Website
Coastal Protection & Restoration Authority of Louisiana, Ducks Unlimited, Private Contributors, Vermilion Corporation
None