Bayou LaForche

A tidal marsh in Bayou Lafourche, Louisiana was degrading due to subsidence and sea-level rise, as well as a drought-induced die-off of Spartina alterniflora. 7.5 hectares of marsh was restored using thin-layer placement of dredged material. Sediment placement improved the recovery of the marsh and increased plant biomass. This restoration effort also decreased rates of inundation and increased the elevation of the marsh. The resiliency of the marsh increased, as tested by an experimental vegetation disturbance post-sediment placement. Partners on this project included Louisiana State University, Louisiana Sea Grant College Program, US Department of Commerce, and Louisiana Department of Natural Resources.