Through the Bayou Monnaie Phase II terracing project, Ducks Unlimited is building 29,000 linear feet of earthen terraces in shallow, open water in Lafourche Parish. One mile west of Galliano, La., and just south of the Pointe aux Chenes Wildlife Management Area, this 1,289-acre coastal restoration project aims to offset the dramatic land loss in this area (approximately 75 percent has been lost) and restore large areas of open water that were once healthy marsh. The effort will create suitable conditions for desirable plant communities to enhance foraging, loafing and nesting conditions for a multitude of waterbirds while also improving habitat for fish. In addition to restoring this area of degraded, brackish marsh, the project also protects and enhances marshes adjacent to the project. Public benefits such as enhanced hunting, fishing and other recreational activities will extend to lease holders, surrounding land owners and visitors to the Point aux Chenes Wildlife Management Area. Construction of terraces and plantings is expected to be completed by the end of April.

DU partners on this $1.2 million project include The Louisiana Land & Exploration Co., South Lafourche Levee District, Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority, Energy Transfer Partners and the North American Wetlands Conservation Council. This is one of several Louisiana projects supported by a $5-million, national donation from ETP.