A Regional Push to Solve Long-Standing Flooding Problems
The Amite River Basin Commission is advancing a major new effort to reduce flood risk across the Capital Region. State Representative Paul Sawyer outlined the work during a visit to Mornings with Brian Haldane, highlighting unprecedented cooperation among seven parishes and major progress on long-term flood control planning.
The Basin’s master plan identifies the biggest challenges across East Baton Rouge, Ascension, Livingston, Iberville, and St. James. It also marks the first time parish presidents and subject-matter experts are working together on coordinated, basin-wide solutions.
Why Holding Water in the Upper Basin Matters
Sawyer explained that the region’s topography creates a natural bottleneck. North of Interstate 12, the basin has rolling hills. South of I-12, the land flattens, slowing drainage. When storms push fast-moving water south, it spreads out with nowhere to go — a dynamic seen clearly during the devastating 2016 Louisiana floods.
The Commission’s research found the strongest way to reduce that risk is to hold water in the Upper Amite before it reaches flatter ground. A large reservoir was once considered, but residents in East Feliciana Parish and St. Helena Parish opposed it.
Turning Industrial Sites Into Natural Storage
The new plan shifts away from one massive reservoir and instead creates multiple smaller storage areas across the upper basin. The state is acquiring former sand and gravel mining sites along the Amite River and restoring them to natural conditions.
These restored areas will:
-
Slow the river
-
Hold stormwater
-
Reduce downstream pressure
-
Help the lower basin drain faster
-
Recharge the Southern Hills Aquifer
Many of these sites will eventually become public recreation areas with lakes, trails, and access for kayaking, fishing, and hiking.
Broader Environmental Benefits
Restoration will encourage the river to meander again, adding natural bends that slow water and expand storage capacity. Vegetation and foresting will also help keep the river in its channel during high-water events.
A Reminder About District 69’s Upcoming Election
Sawyer also noted that Louisiana House of Representatives District 69 currently has no sitting representative. Early voting opens February 28 and runs through March 7. Election Day is March 14 — the same day as Baton Rouge’s Wearin’ of the Green Parade — and residents in Old Goodwood, Sherwood, Shenandoah, Parkview, Woodlawn, Jefferson Terrace, and surrounding areas are encouraged to vote.