Mermentau Basin Discussion
In order to successfully protect, restore, and enhance the Mermentau Basin's wetlands, it is critical that projects be implemented in the Lakes Subbasin to lower water levels and reduce stress on interior wetlands, and in the Chenier Subbasin to restore freshwater input, provide additional nutrients and sediment to receiving wetlands, and divert fresh water from the Lakes Subbasin. Implementation of projects that reduce interior wetland loss, rebuild wetlands in open water areas, and maintain the geologic framework of the basin by addressing shoreline erosion along the lakes, navigation channels, and gulf, is also critical. Although it is too early to determine the success of the all CWPPRA projects, preliminary indications for completed projects' goals are being met. Although the vegetative plantings failed for the Dewitt-Rollover project, deauthorization of this project has released funds which had been reserved for maintenance and monitoring of the project so that these funds can be spent on more appropriate efforts. The anticipated benefits of current and future CWPPRA projects, along with complementary state sponsored projects, should help to maintain the integrity of Mermentau Basin wetlands.