Coastal Flood Risk Reduction

Sea level rise, more frequent, higher-intensity tropical storms, and hurricanes are the largest threat to the long-term viability and protection of assets in Calcasieu and Cameron parishes. Coastal Flood Risk Reduction focuses on protecting the coast and marshes in Cameron while ensuring that investments in both parishes are shielded against future devastation. Risk reduction projects layer structural and non-structural interventions to reduce loss of life and property damages from surge events and lower flood insurance. These projects build on the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority’s (CPRA) work with additional layers of structural protection.

Video by local high school students in the CPSB TV program

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR CALCASIEU PARISH?

Even though most residents don’t think of Calcasieu Parish as coastal, assets are increasingly more at risk, especially with sea level rise. As the region invests in jobs, infrastructure, and quality of life, coastal protections are needed in Calcasieu Parish as well to help protect those investments.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR CAMERON PARISH?

Coastal Flood Risk Reduction means long-term viability, including a safe place to live and the protection of residents’ lives and properties. With each storm, residents and their homes are more at risk. Protecting the coastline and ship channel by layering structural elements with non-structural strategies would help protect assets, foster economic investments, and enhance the natural environment. Investing in public beaches will support ecotourism and attract people to Cameron Parish.