On January 7, 2025, the Terrebonne Parish Consolidated Government convened a meeting of the Coastal Zone Management and Restoration Advisory Committee, focusing on critical issues surrounding coastal restoration and marine debris removal. The discussions highlighted ongoing efforts to address derelict vessels in local waterways, a significant concern for both environmental health and community aesthetics.

One of the primary topics was the initiative to remove 232 abandoned vessels from various locations, including Terrebonne, Grand Cayou, Petite Cayou, and Dularge. Kelly Jeffries, a representative involved in the project, detailed the comprehensive survey conducted in 2024 using advanced technologies such as lidar and side-scan sonar. This survey provided the necessary data to identify and catalog the derelict vessels, which pose risks to navigation and the local ecosystem.

The parish has allocated $1 million for the removal project and is actively seeking additional funding through grants, including a recent application to the BoatUS Foundation for another million dollars. Jeffries emphasized the importance of community engagement in the project, noting that public input is crucial for ensuring that the list of vessels targeted for removal is comprehensive and agreed upon by local stakeholders.

The committee also discussed the legal processes involved in removing these vessels. According to Louisiana law, a vessel can be classified as derelict if it has been stationary for 30 days without movement. The committee is following established protocols to ensure that all necessary public notices are issued before any removal actions take place.

Concerns were raised about potential environmental impacts during the removal process, particularly regarding the risk of pollution from leaking fuel or oil. Jeffries assured the committee that contingency plans would be in place, including notifying the Coast Guard prior to any removal activities to address any environmental hazards that may arise.

In addition to the vessel removal project, discussions touched on innovative approaches to coastal restoration, including the use of 3D-printed reefs designed to support marine life. The committee expressed interest in exploring these technologies further, contingent on securing the necessary funding.

The meeting underscored the ongoing commitment of Terrebonne Parish to address coastal management challenges while fostering community involvement and environmental stewardship. As the project progresses, the committee will continue to seek input from residents and stakeholders to ensure the successful removal of derelict vessels and the protection of local waterways.