WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sens. John Kennedy (R-La.) and Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-La.) today announced that $161.4 million from the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill settlement will be used to restore barrier islands in lower Terrebonne Parish. 

The project will focus on West Belle Headland, Timbalier Island and Trinity Island.  All of the islands are located within the Terrebonne Basin barrier shoreline system.

“These are critical projects that are needed to protect our wetlands and wildlife habitats,” said Sen. Kennedy.  “Anyone who lives in Louisiana knows we are in a David versus Goliath fight to save our coastline.  Our barrier islands are an important line of defense against hurricanes.  Every penny spent preserving them is a penny well spent.”

“Protecting Louisiana’s unique geography and ecosystems is a massive endeavor we must continue to fund and support,” said Sen. Cassidy. “These resources will shore up the barrier islands, preserve our coastlines, and protect the people of Terrebonne Parish from damaging storms.”

###