Because the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers didn’t have local data on how waves behave when they overtop levees and floodwalls in Louisiana, the agency relied on data from the Netherlands and California. Getting better local storm data would require expensive “hardened” gauges that can stand up to storm conditions.
Head of the state coastal agency says the $500,000 cut is simply a matter of tight government finances.
Alternatives include porous mats that hold soils in place while allowing grass to grow — at an added cost of more than $350 million. Layering the whole system with concrete is another costly option.
The need to resist Big Oil and the Jindal administration's shameless pandering to it has begun to forge a broad-spectrum political alliance.
Study said plastic matting wouldn't have to be removed when levees are raised. Board consultant says otherwise.
John Barry says he'll form a new nonprofit to support a blockbuster lawsuit against the oil and gas industry.
“There’s still a ton of oil out there" and it's hard to find, said an attorney for Gov. Bobby Jindal.
He may still end up serving on the board of the state coastal agency, which meets today.
Group's founder described plans for a community garden, farmers' market, amphitheater and nature pavilion.
Dredging at the mouth of Bayou St. John is nearly complete, with the sediment being used to anchor wetlands that will foster wildlife. The dam that was compared to a coronary blockage has been removed, allowing water to pass more freely. Proponents say the project shows how the city can live with the water around us, rather than fight it.
