Tag Archives: marsh-destroying power of nitrates and chemicals

Sediment diversions not the way to rebuild Louisiana’s coast

Without a doubt, the coast of Louisiana is disappearing at an alarming rate. Something has to be done — and quickly — to stop our shorelines from sinking into the Gulf. But are diversions the answer? More and more scientists are now looking at the Mississippi River not as a solution, but as part of the problem. Yes, these diversions will cause an enormous disruption to the lives and livelihoods of families who have fished, trawled, and dredged these areas for generations. Add in what we’re beginning to learn about the marsh-destroying power of nitrates and chemicals, and it’s harder and harder to think of the Mississippi River as a “friend” to those of us striving   to save Louisiana’s coast. continued@thelens