Chris Barnes

The board received updates on active CPRA projects, including marsh creation, shoreline restoration, and levee improvements. Discussions covered the implementation status of various coastal projects, including the Morganza to the Gulf project and Bayou Lafourche Freshwater Delivery project. Reports were provided on landbridge restoration, terracing projects, and levee district specific updates from NLLD and SLLD representatives. The board also held an executive session regarding a lawsuit settlement matter.

The board meeting featured a presentation on coastal restoration efforts by the St. Amant High School Future Farmers of America. The agenda included a comprehensive year-end review of the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority's construction projects and completed work. The board also reviewed the Draft Fiscal Year 2027 Annual Plan and the Atchafalaya Basin Annual Plan, received updates on federal funding legislation, and presented the R. King Milling Distinguished Coastal Service Award.

The board received updates on active coastal restoration projects, including status reports on construction and planning phases, contract awards, and recent industry outreach efforts. Discussions were held regarding the Atchafalaya Basin Master Plan, focusing on ecosystem function, sediment management, and long-term investment strategies. A presentation was provided on the LaHouse program's efforts to research and promote resilient, affordable housing in coastal Louisiana, including economic impacts of wind hazards. Finally, the board reviewed the Coastwide Nutria Control Program, discussing its bounty-based trapper incentive system and effectiveness in mitigating marsh damage.

The board meeting included a review of USACE work in the Mississippi Valley Division and a presentation on the CPRA FY 2027 Final Annual Plan and Atchafalaya Basin Annual Plan, which were subsequently approved. Additionally, the board discussed the FY 2026 Parish Matching Awards, selecting projects from six parishes for funding. A federal update was provided regarding infrastructure initiatives, nonstructural feasibility studies, and recent Gulf of America lease sales. Finally, the board received information regarding the upcoming Coastal Day schedule of events.

The board meeting addressed several significant topics, including an evaluation of the USACE readiness for the 2026 hurricane season and a climatological overview of the upcoming storm season's threats. Comprehensive updates were provided regarding the implementation of various coastal projects, construction status, and legislative developments affecting the FY 2027 Annual Plan. Additionally, the federal update covered disbursements from GOMESA, the Offshore Parity Act legislation, the status of the Coastal Trust Fund Act, and ongoing policy reforms related to FEMA and the USACE.