Alternatives to plugging the crevasse include conduits beneath the levee or a bridge over the gap. These moves would buy time while scientists determine the pros and cons of this "free" diversion project and its potential impact on other projects planned as part of the struggle to rebuild a vanishing coast.
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.
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 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.
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.
