Category
Environment
Forces collide as nature takes a stab at saving a coastal marsh — for free
When the swollen Mississippi broke through to feed a marsh during Carnival 2011, it seemed to some like an alternative to the multi-million-dollar man-made diversion planned nearby. But conflicting views over whether to let 'Mardi Gras Pass' run wild are a perfect example of how complex coastal restoration issues can be.
State officials criticize $60 million BP donation deal, warn of precedent
Louisiana's treasurer and legislative auditor say a BP donation to two nonprofit groups was an improper arrangement because the state ultimately controlled how the money was spent -- so the state Legislature should have had a say in the deal. However, an attorney general's opinion from 2010 said the terms were proper.
New group makes timely debut in fight against lead poisoning
The link between lead poisoning and crime is a mystery that none of the usual hypotheses — such as “get tough” police laws — can explain.
Top state official rebuts dire warning, insists coast can be saved
Garret Graves, Louisiana's coastal protection czar, contends that scientists behind a shockingly gloomy federal report are "just misinformed.” He said the state's master plan allows for adaptation as conditions change.
New research: Louisiana coast faces highest rate of sea-level rise worldwide
New technology has revealed that southeast Louisiana is sinking faster than previously known. Combined with rising seas due to global warming, a leading scientist says waters will rise "at least four feet." With more communities closer to open water, even minor hurricanes could cause catastrophic damage.
Funding crisis looms for $14 billion hurricane protection system
The agency responsible for maintaining the multibillion-dollar flood protection system can't afford the $34 million annual bill, and possible solutions are blocked by state and congressional politics. “We’ll soon be facing a $600 million question," says John Barry, vice president of the South Louisiana Flood Protection Authority-East.
Ivor van Heerden, LSU settle wrongful termination lawsuit
Van Heerden credits a column by The Lens' Jed Horne with helping to push LSU to settle.
Too late to save face, but time for LSU to settle van Heerden lawsuit
LSU tried to discredit Ivor van Heerden and then fired him for speaking out about the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' failures with the levees in New Orleans. Now the university is fighting his wrongful termination lawsuit.
Eco vs. econo: 11th-hour dispute over plan to spend $20B in BP fines
Up to $6 billion of BP's fines for the oil spill was supposed to be spent on ecosystem recovery. A behind-the-scenes drama unfolded when new guidelines added "economic recovery" to the approved purposes.
