Scalise Applauds Approval of $30 Million in Coastal Restoration Funds

WASHINGTON, D.C.—House Republican Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.) released the following statement in support of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) announcement approving a combined $30 million through the Coastal Wetlands Planning, Protection, and Restoration Act (CWPPRA) Program for coastal restoration projects in St. Bernard and Lafourche parishes:

"Our coastal wetlands protect Louisiana communities, families and businesses while also providing critical habitat for wildlife and fisheries. Rebuilding our coast is essential to preserving our culture and strengthening our economy, and this announcement is great news for people throughout Southeast Louisiana who rely on a strong coastline. I applaud NOAA's commitment to conserving and sustaining Louisiana's wetlands, a commitment that will increase protection for our local communities."

Funding for these projects will support restoration of 926 acres of wetland habitat.

Construction of the West Fourchon Marsh Creation & Nourishment Project, which will create and restore nearly 537 acres of marsh and mangrove habitat east of Timbalier Bay in Lafourche Parish, will receive approximately $26.3 million.

Engineering and design for the North Delacroix Marsh Creation & Terracing Project, which will restore 389 acres of marsh in St. Bernard Parish, helping to protect the nearby community of Delacroix, will receive approximately $3.7 million.

Click here to read the announcement by NOAA.