The House Natural Resources Committee of the Louisiana Legislature convened on May 29, 2025, to discuss several critical projects aimed at enhancing flood protection and coastal restoration in the state. Key topics included the funding status of various initiatives, including the West Shore Lake Pontchartrain hurricane protection project, the Lakeborn Marsh Creation project, and the Saint Tammany Parish flood risk management project.

During the meeting, representatives expressed enthusiasm for the West Shore Lake Pontchartrain project, which is reported to be mostly funded. Approximately 65% of its funding comes from congressional appropriations, while the remaining 35% is sourced from state funds, including capital outlay. However, there are still some federal funds needed for the Saint James component of the project, which officials are actively working to secure.

The Saint Tammany project, recently authorized, currently lacks dedicated funding. Officials indicated that preliminary work is set to begin, with plans to collaborate with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to kick off the program. In contrast, the Lakeborn Marsh Creation project is fully funded through the Natural Resource Damage Assessment related to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, with a total budget of approximately $115 million for the restoration of 3,100 acres.

Concerns were raised regarding flood protection measures for Livingston Parish, with representatives noting ongoing discussions with local officials and the Amide River Basin Commission to address these needs. The committee emphasized that all projects are evaluated to ensure they do not negatively impact surrounding areas, a process that includes thorough feasibility studies.

The meeting also touched on the controversial Mid-Barataria sediment diversion project, which has faced funding challenges. Despite the project's cancellation, officials noted that it remains in the budget until officially terminated, as ongoing financial obligations to contractors must be settled.

Overall, the discussions highlighted the ongoing efforts and challenges in securing funding for critical flood protection and coastal restoration projects in Louisiana, underscoring the state's commitment to addressing environmental and safety concerns for its residents.