SUPPORTING EFFORTS BY THE Louisiana Department of
Natural Resources, ATCHAFALAYA BASIN Program to
implement water management projects in the
Atchafalaya Basin floodway system
Whereas, the Atchafalaya Basin Floodway System has been recognized as an important environmental, aesthetic, and economic asset to the State of Louisiana, the United States of America, and many plant and animal species that depend on clean water and air resources; and
Whereas, the pressure of human development continues to stress our remaining wild environment; and
Whereas, the remaining wild areas in the Floodways play an increasingly important role in supporting human physical and social health and welfare; and
Whereas, changes in climate and weather are already creating stress on the human species and the others that share our ecosystem; and
Whereas, the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources Atchafalaya Basin Program is charged to “Conserve, Restore, and Enhance the natural habitat of the Atchafalaya Basin” and continually struggles with the acquisition of access rights to implement water management projects to accomplish that mission; and
Whereas, the Basin Program is authorized by its enabling legislation to acquire land in the Atchafalaya Basin.
Therefore be it resolved that the Louisiana Wildlife Federation supports a multi-agency effort, led by the Department of Natural Resources, to identify locations for key water management projects that are necessary to further the mission of the Program.
be it FURTHER resolved that the Louisiana Wildlife Federation and its affiliates support the redirection of funds previously approved for projects which now are unable to move forward, to fee purchase from willing sellers, of land in locations identified for key water management projects.
be it FURTHER resolved that the Louisiana Wildlife Federation respectfully requests increased authorization and funding by the Louisiana Legislature for additional purchases of land from willing sellers for the purpose of advancing water management projects.
Adopted by the Louisiana Wildlife Federation in Convention Assembled, August 16, 2014 in West Monroe, Louisiana.
The Louisiana Wildlife Federation is a statewide conservation education and advocacy organization with more than 9,900 members and 24 affiliate groups. Established in 1940, it is affiliated with the National Wildlife Federation and represents a broad constituency of conservationists including hunters, fishers, campers, birders, boaters, and other outdoor enthusiasts.