Whereas, the Atchafalaya Basin Floodway System has been recognized as a world class ecosystem, and comprises the largest remaining river basin swamp in North America; and
Whereas, the Atchafalaya Basin is important to tens of thousands of citizens who enjoy the Basin’s abundant natural resources and scenic beauty through a diversity of activities including fishing, paddling, hunting, birding, boating, camping and sight-seeing, and to the residents of the area who represent the rich, natural resources-based culture that the Basin has nurtured for generations; and
Whereas, the pressure of human development in areas outside the Floodway continues to stress our remaining wild environment; and
Whereas, the undeveloped 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 appear likely to create further stress on our species and others that share our ecosystem; and
Whereas, the flood of 2011 provided important additional information concerning the effectiveness of the Floodway System and the conditions in the enclosed swamp areas.
Therefore be it resolved that the Louisiana Wildlife Federation recognizes the cooperation of the Federal and State agencies operating in the Floodway during the flood of 2011 and commends those agencies for their coordinated actions.
be it FURTHER resolved that the Louisiana Wildlife Federation and its affiliates support efforts by the responsible agencies to protect and restore valuable wildlife habitat and human recreation areas inside the Atchafalaya Basin Floodway System.
Resolution No. 5B, 2013 – ATCHAFALAYA BASIN WATER QUALITY, Page 2
be it FURTHER resolved that the Louisiana Wildlife Federation respectfully requests increased Congressional authorization and funding for protection and restoration efforts by all responsible parties, including but not limited to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources. Those efforts should identify and implement programs that improve water and habitat quality, while maintaining the important flood control functions of the Floodway System.
Adopted by the Louisiana Wildlife Federation in Convention Assembled, February 24, 2013 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
The Louisiana Wildlife Federation is a statewide conservation education and advocacy organization with more than 8,500 members and 25 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.