Regional strategies for coastal restoration along the Louisiana Chenier plain

In this paper, we review physical, geological, and environmental parameters of the Louisiana Chenier Plain to support the definition of regional strategies and management practices for long-term coastal restoration along this coastal segment. For management purposes, the Chenier Plain of Louisiana is divided into three main coastal segments that could be maintained over the long term. Recommendations are drawn for each coastal segment on the basis of bio physical properties. Approximate volumetric requirements for coastal restoration based on historical rates of shoreline change are presented. Discussions of potential sand resources are based on data published in the professional literature. Compared with the Louisiana barrier islands, the Chenier Plain is less well known; consequently, there is significantly less data related to shoreline change, sedimentology, beach profiles, and large-scale geomorphological evolution. Future restoration projects in this coastal region must direct attention toward obtaining essential coastal data that is lacking for many coastal segments along the Louisiana Chenier Plain.