MRGO ecosystem restoration website launched

NEW ORLEANS – Today, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New Orleans District launched a new website to provide the public with better access to information related to the Mississippi River Gulf Outlet (MRGO) ecosystem restoration efforts. The website, www.mrgo.gov, includes information related to the de-authorization and closure of the former navigation channel, as well as development of ecosystem restoration plans.

“The Corps is working closely with federal and state partners and the public to address ecosystem restoration needs in areas affected by the MRGO channel,” says Gregory Miller, senior project manager. “This website will provide easy access to important documents to help the public understand the ongoing efforts.”

The website currently features the Final Environmental Impact Statement, “MRGO, Louisiana and Lake Borgne Marsh Creation and Shoreline Protection” document, which is available for public review through July 20, 2009. The “Selected Plan,” as outlined in this document, would construct shoreline protection features along the Lake Borgne shoreline, and restore and nourish up to 3,867 acres of wetlands in the MRGO and Lake Borgne estuarine complex.

Information on the MRGO Ecosystem Restoration Feasibility Study is also available on the website. This ongoing study works in tandem with other restoration efforts for the MRGO and Lake Borgne area. Potential features of this plan include marsh creation and restoration; shoreline protection and restoration; barrier island restoration; and freshwater, sediment and nutrient introduction, including diversions from the Mississippi River into wetlands of Orleans and St. Bernard Parishes. The feasibility study will address such environmental issues as sea level rise, subsidence, saltwater intrusion, wetland loss, bank and shoreline erosion and barrier island habitat loss.