The 2012 Coastal Master Plan
A vision to restore and protect Louisiana's coastal resources and communities
Every five years, the state of Louisiana, through its Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority (CPRA), publishes a plan of action to protect and restore the coast. In January of 2012, the state released the draft version of the 2012 Coastal Master Plan, its most comprehensive attempt yet at putting forth solutions to coastal Louisiana’s myriad environmental and engineering challenges. Throughout the early stages of 2012, citizens and stakeholders will have the opportunity to provide comment on the plan before the CPRA submits it to the state legislature for approval.
Check out our coalition comments on the 2012 Coastal Master Plan.
The science-based process used to develop the 2012 plan was designed to evaluate the range of possibilities for restoring and protecting Louisiana’s coast and wetlands. Relying on coastal experts and the best available science to select, prioritize and implement projects will help promote an efficient, realistic course forward in coastal restoration.
Examples of protection and restoration projects. Courtesy of Dan Swenson/The Times-Picayune
The key to this process lies in recognizing that Louisiana’s coast is changing and will continue to change while also realizing that accepting the status quo will invariably lead to continued ecological collapse and erosion of Louisiana’s barrier islands and wetlands. The question facing Louisiana and the nation is whether to accept a future of continued loss and retreat or whether to build a Louisiana coast that, though different from that of the past, is healthy, safe and strong for future generations.
The 2012 Coastal Master Plan offers the opportunity to proactively address Louisiana’s future. By using a scientifically verified course of action to help select aggressive yet achievable restoration projects, the state can take the lead in charting a new future for the Mississippi River Delta and the entire Louisiana coast.
Key dates for the plan:
- January 12, 2012:Unveiling of the draft 2012 Coastal Master Plan (plan becomes available for public comment online)
- January 23, 2012: New Orleans public meeting, 1:00 – 7:30 PM, University of New Orleans – Lindy Boggs Conference Center Auditorium
- January 24, 2012: Houma public meeting, 1:00 – 7:30 PM, Houma Terrebonne Civic Center
- January 25, 2012: Lake Charles public meeting, 1:00 – 7:30 PM, Lake Charles Civic Center
- February 25, 2012: Public comment period closes
- March 26, 2012: 2012 Coastal Master Plan is submitted to Louisiana Legislature
Resources:
Mississippi River Delta Restoration Campaign, "Comments on the 2012 Louisiana Coastal Master Plan, February 25th, 2012."
Mississippi River Delta Restoration Campaign, "Comments on the 2013 Coastal Louisiana Ecosystem Restoration and Hurricane Protection Annual Plan, February 25th, 2012."
Louisiana Office of Coastal Protection and Restoration, "Louisiana’s Comprehensive Master Plan for a Sustainable Coast."
Mark Schleifstein, " Louisiana coastal restoration 50-year blueprint released."
Mississippi River Delta Restoration Campaign, "La. 2012 Coastal Master Plan Must Be Visionary, Groups Say."
Scott Madere, Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana, "2012 Coastal Master Plan Offers Long-Term Vision, Flexibility for Louisiana."
