North Shore River Watch opposes SB 97 at Shreveport meeting

Concerns over proposed river management legislation took center stage at the Louisiana Legislature's Transportation meeting on May 27, 2025. Matthew Allen, representing North Shore River Watch, voiced strong opposition to Senate Bill 97, which aims to enhance coordination on river projects across multiple parishes.

Allen acknowledged the bill's good intentions but raised critical concerns regarding its structure and language. He emphasized that while collaboration among various authorities is essential, the bill lacks adequate representation from local communities and conservation organizations. "We question whether levee boards and port authorities have the expertise to work on these rivers effectively," he stated, highlighting the need for local input in decision-making processes.

The speaker also warned that the bill could inadvertently increase development in flood-prone areas, putting more residents at risk. He called for baseline studies to be mandated before any projects commence, as well as a thorough cost-benefit analysis to ensure that expenditures align with environmental protections. Allen urged lawmakers to extend the public notice period for significant projects from 7-10 days to 21-30 days, allowing for more comprehensive community engagement.

In closing, Allen cautioned that the proposed authority could centralize power in a way that undermines landowner rights and leads to potentially harmful projects. He stressed the importance of preserving natural river ecosystems, particularly in regions like Saint Tammany Parish, where undisturbed rivers contribute to resilience against flooding.

The discussions reflect ongoing tensions between development interests and environmental conservation in Louisiana, as lawmakers grapple with the complexities of flood management and community safety.