The Senate Natural Resources meeting held on May 29, 2025, focused on amendments concerning the management of Bayou Manchaca. The session began with Senator Lambert proposing an amendment to the existing bill, which aimed to limit its applicability specifically to Bayou Manchaca by deleting lines 1 through 4 on page 2 of the document. The motion was put to a vote, and with no objections raised, the amendment was passed.

Matthew Allen, representing North Shore River Watch, addressed the committee, expressing that his organization was not particularly concerned about Bayou Manchaca, noting its distinct characteristics as a coastal river system compared to the upland Comite River. He emphasized that the effects of clearing and dredging on erosion were less significant in this context, indicating support for the bill as it stands.

Allen further shared insights from the National Large Wood Manual, published by the Bureau of Reclamation and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which cautioned against the removal of in-stream wood based on misconceptions rather than scientific evidence. He highlighted the ecological benefits of retaining such wood, including improved aquatic habitats and reduced risks of channel incision that could threaten infrastructure and exacerbate flooding.

The meeting also featured several individuals who chose not to speak in opposition, including Brandy Slaborn and Charles Williams from the Louisiana Wildlife Federation. However, John Sablatura, a chemical engineer with extensive experience, voiced concerns regarding the potential unintended consequences of removing Bayou Manchaca from the scenic waterway system. He warned that this action could lead to increased public access and vehicular traffic along the river, which had previously caused significant habitat destruction and erosion. Sablatura urged the committee to consider these implications seriously and to advocate for the bill's passage in the House.

As the meeting concluded, no further questions were raised, and the committee expressed gratitude for the contributions made by the speakers. The discussions underscored the importance of balancing ecological preservation with legislative changes affecting local waterways.