Metrics and computer models fill in a still sketchy picture of what the river can contribute to fight coastal loss.
Author Archives: Bob Marshall
From 2013 to 2017, Bob Marshall covered environmental issues for The Lens, with a special focus on coastal restoration and wetlands. While at The Times-Picayune, his work chronicling the people, stories and issues of Louisiana
Posted inEnvironment
Study: In some cases, pipelines can rebuild wetlands more cheaply than diversions
But sediment diversions are still more cost-effective over long distances and in the long-term.
Posted inEnvironment
Lawyers combat PR blitz with timeline showing Big Oil’s role in coastal loss
The documents outline the Flood Protection Authority’s case but won’t be introduced as evidence in court.
Posted inEnvironment
Live blog: Flood Protection Authority nominating committee to send new nominee to governor
But they voted not to send another name in cases in which the governor rejects a qualified candidate.
Posted inEnvironment
Scientists stress need to address uncertainties around sediment diversions
Eighteen recommendations apply to six or more diversions planned downstream from New Orleans.
Posted inEnvironment
Levee board begs corps to get a 10-year jump on subsidence — at local expense
Savings reach $20 million if levees are raised before they’re armored. Subsidence puts area flood insurance at risk.
Posted inEnvironment
Sinking levee shows difficulty of protecting New Orleans from flooding
Parts of a 1.1-mile stretch of levee along the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway have sunk six inches since it was built. Repairs will cost $1 million. Officials say subsidence is inevitable, and it’s impossible to predict where it will happen.
Posted inEnvironment
Levee-board reformers worry that Jindal bringing politics back into process
After experts blamed pre-Katrina political hacks for ignoring safety issues, voters chose to have experts serve on levee boards. But Jindal has a litmus test that critics say undermines the changes: He wants members who will oppose a lawsuit against oil and gas companies for wetlands damages.
Posted inEnvironment
Volunteers use airborne patrols, satellite photos to spot oil spills along Louisiana coast
Since the BP oil spill, a group of environmental organizations has used private boats, planes and even satellite imagery to spot oil spills and report them to the federal government. You may be surprised to learn that they’re the only ones doing this.
Posted inEnvironment
Live blog: Lawyers suing oil & gas industry defend suit before state coastal authority
Given the state coastal authority’s opposition to the suit, Wednesday’s meeting could be contentious.