Concerns over environmental impacts and funding dominated the House Natural Resources meeting on May 29, 2025, as Louisiana legislators discussed the controversial Mid Barataria sediment diversion project. The project, which aims to combat coastal erosion and restore wetlands, has faced significant scrutiny regarding its potential effects on local fisheries and water quality.

During the meeting, representatives highlighted an estimated $1.7 billion cost for dredging and compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which has not been adequately addressed. One speaker pointed out that the project was rushed into construction without proper environmental assessments, raising alarms about rising water levels and the potential for increased flooding in the affected eight parishes.

The environmental impact statement from the Corps of Engineers was a focal point, with concerns raised about the introduction of harmful chemicals into local waterways, including PFAS and other pollutants. The meeting underscored the urgency for a comprehensive study to evaluate the long-term effects of the diversion on water quality and marine life, particularly shrimp and oysters.

Additionally, the discussion touched on the need for a new environmental impact statement and the potential for federal funding to support the project. A proposed medium diversion at Myrtle Grove was mentioned as a viable alternative, with a funding structure that could alleviate some financial burdens on the state.

As the meeting concluded, legislators expressed a mix of skepticism and cautious optimism about the project's future. While some acknowledged the necessity of sediment diversions for ecosystem restoration, others remained concerned about the potential risks and the handling of the project thus far. The outcome of this ongoing debate will likely shape Louisiana's coastal management strategies for years to come.