South Pecan Island freshwater introduction restoration project, Louisiana, USA

Abstract

Wetlands in Louisiana’s Chenier Plain are undergoing persistent deterioration that will become increasingly problematic if not adequately addressed. Many projects are proposed with the goal of protecting or restoring the wetlands. One such type of projects is freshwater introduction, aims to decrease the salinity levels in a marsh. The project is located in the Mermentau Basin in southeastern Vermilion Parish, Louisiana. The study allows freshwater to drain into the Chenier subbasin, while reducing the effects of excess water in the Lakes subbasin. The area is studied using the aerial view geographic information systems (GIS) map alongside with the aerial photos and LiDAR images of canals located near Pecan Island. Moreover, the general mass-balance formulas for both water level and salinity are derived.