ARBC UNANIMOUSLY SUPPORTS EDMONSTON FLOOD PACKAGE
- ARBC
- Apr 7
- 2 min read
April 8, 2025|Press Releases
Livingston, LA – The Amite River Basin Commission (ARBC) unanimously approved today resolutions supporting two bills by Rep. Kathy Edmonston (LA 88-Gonzales) that will help the ARBC prioritize and focus on urgent flood fighting priorities.
H.B. 172 will extend the period for which the Comite River and Bayou Manchac are exempt from certain provisions of the Louisiana Scenic Rivers Act. This bill temporarily suspends restrictions on flood protection measures in Bayou Manchac. East Baton Rouge Parish is leading a $30 million effort with Ascension and Iberville Parish to improve drainage in Bayou Manchac. The Pontchartrain Levee District is also conducting similar flood protection measures in the bayou.
H.B. 165 will remove the deadline for ARBC to promulgate regulations for watershed management. With very limited resources available to the Commission, this bill will allow the ARBC to complete work on its legislatively mandated, landmark master plan and to take initial steps on the Upper Amite Flood Risk Reduction and Restoration Project.
Resolution 1185 & 1186 can be found on our resolutions page
“We’ve become a model for the State of Louisiana,” said ARBC President John Clark. “That said, Kathy Edmonston understands we do not plan to change the natural character of these rivers, but rather just help restore their natural functions.”
“As a resident in the Bayou Manchac watershed, I echo the frustrations and urgency of citizens who want their homes and communities safe from persistent flooding,” said ARBC Vice President Jack Harris. “Also, HB 172 allows us to focus on the Basin’s most urgent needs and allows us to prioritize rule making when resources become available.”
“East Baton Rouge, Ascension and Iberville are cooperating on Bayou Manchac like never before. HR 165 allows us to get the necessary work done to help improve the bayou’s drainage while lowering flood risk in our parishes,” said ARBC Commissioner Fred Raiford.
“My family and friends have fished, swum, and boated in these scenic rivers for generations. They are very important to me personally,” Clark added. “However, these scenic rivers can’t be a threat to our local people and communities. If these beautiful rivers cause horrible destruction, we should be allowed to improve them. We can still be stewards of the environment while also protecting life and property.”
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Amite River Basin Drainage & Water Conservation District
3535 S. Sherwood Forest Blvd, Suite 135
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
(225) 296-4900
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