The Louisiana and Open Ocean Trustee Implementation Groups have approved a final restoration plan with projects to address injuries to natural resources caused by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. The Final Joint Restoration Plan and Environmental Assessment #1: Restoring Wetlands, Coastal, and Nearshore Habitats, Federally Managed Lands, Fish and Water Column Invertebrates, Sea Turtles, Submerged Aquatic Vegetation, and Birds of the Chandeleur Islands (PDF, 1087 pages) analyzed two sets of alternatives: one set for Chandeleur Islands Habitat Restoration and one set for Chandeleur Islands Fish and Water Column Invertebrates Restoration. After considering public comments, the Louisiana and Open Ocean Trustees have selected the following preferred alternatives for funding and implementation: Chandeleur Islands Habitat Restoration Alternative 5 and the Fisheries Engagement and Restoration Project.
Chandeleur Islands Habitat Restoration
The final plan selects Alternative 5: Chandeleur Islands Habitat Restoration, which will use dredged sediment to rebuild and stabilize the islands. The project will restore more than 2,400 acres of dune, beach, and back-barrier marsh habitats—critical for migratory birds, sea turtles, and fisheries. Restoration of beach, dune, and marsh habitat will help protect and enhance extensive submerged aquatic vegetation beds found on the bayside of the islands. Restored habitats will also strengthen natural storm defenses for coastal communities.
This work builds on past restoration efforts on the Chandeleur Islands and provides an investment of up to $237 million in Deepwater Horizon settlement funds. Additional sources of funding will be obtained by Louisiana to help cover the approximately $362 million total cost of Chandeleur Islands Habitat Restoration Alternative 5.
Chandeleur Islands Fish and Water Column Invertebrates Restoration
In addition to island restoration, the Trustees selected the Fisheries Engagement and Restoration Project which will increase local capacity to engage with fishing communities and other stakeholders and provide information and tools to help improve the health of fish populations and their habitats.
This work provides an investment of up to $10 million in Deepwater Horizon settlement funds.
Public Engagement
Public input shaped the final plan. During the comment period, the Trustees received feedback from residents, conservation groups, and researchers. Comments emphasized the importance of preserving the islands' ecological role and cultural significance, as well as ensuring long-term monitoring.
Next Steps
With the final plan approved, funding is available for island restoration, which is expected to begin in summer 2026 following the conclusion of all permitting and consultation requirements. Restoration is expected to be phased, ensuring careful management of dredging and placement activities to maximize ecological benefits while protecting sensitive resources. Planning with stakeholders will also get underway for the Fisheries Engagement and Restoration Project. The first phase of this project will develop a Fisheries Engagement and Restoration Plan focused on the Chandeleur Sound area of the Breton National Wildlife Refuge.
The Chandeleur Islands restoration represents a major step toward reversing decades of loss and ensuring a more resilient coast and ecosystem for people and wildlife.
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