David Vitter in The Associated Press

On Environment: Coastal restoration with private funding

The four candidates discussed what they would do as governor to repair Louisiana's eroding coast. About 1,900 square miles of coast have eroded into the Gulf of Mexico since the 1930s. Each one backed a $50 billion, 50-year master plan--opposed by many fishermen--devised by Gov. Bobby Jindal's administration to slow land loss by diverting the Mississippi River's mud and water into injured estuaries.

Vitter said diversions are "going to be the most difficult, the most controversial" aspects of the restoration plan. He added: "The possible negative impacts are very real." He added that "you have to measure and tweak projects as you go along."

The candidates predicted the eventual cost of coastal restoration would reach $100 billion. Vitter said he would seek to engage private companies, such as oil and gas companies, in spending more on the coast. Edwards and Dardenne offered similar ideas. Vitter also said he would work with other Gulf states to expand offshore drilling to bring in more funds.

Source: Associated Press on 2015 Louisiana gubernatorial debate Aug 19, 2015

The above quotations are from Columns and news articles distributed by the Associated Press. Click here for other excerpts from Columns and news articles distributed by the Associated Press. Click here for other excerpts by David Vitter. Click here for a profile of David Vitter.
Please consider a donation to OnTheIssues.org! Click for details -- or send donations to: 1770 Mass Ave. #630, Cambridge MA 02140 E-mail: submit@OnTheIssues.org (We rely on your support!)

Page last updated: Feb 15, 2019