Atchafalaya Basin Program- The Henderson Lake Project

Jan 9, 2020 | Uncategorized

Oct 15 , 2019

Dredge the Vermilion took the lead in assisting St. Martin Parish develop the Henderson Lake Project concept that was submitted for funding by CPRA in fiscal year 2020. This proposal was completed in less than 10 days from a verbal concept to an approved submission by CPRA.

On Oct 15 representatives from several parishes met with CPRA regarding a proposed project  in the Atchafalaya Basin. The result of the meeting was a  document drafted defining  an Atchafalaya Basin Project Phase 1- The Henderson Lake Project.

The plan consisted of both water quality and regional drainage improvements that will benefit the entire Teche-Vermilion Watershed.
CPRA approved the Project and construction  is scheduled for beginning in 2021.
About the project:
Overview and problem statement
  • 2018- Atchafalaya Basin Program responsibilities were transferred to CPRA
  • CPRA established a $6-7M Annual Budget for Basin Projects
  • Basin has documented Water Quality Issues
  • Drainage and Freshwater Flows are Blocked by Pipeline Right-of-Way Spoil Banks
  • Drainage and Control of Water Levels in Henderson Lake is Controlled by a Temporary and Obsolete Gate that was Constructed to build I10

Key Objectives

  1. Improving water quality to improve fisheries, waterfowl, migrating birds, and native species
  2. Remove man made and natural obstructions to water flows improving both freshwater and flood flows
  3. Removal of sediment and other obstructions that inhibit water flows
  4. Developing a management plan to optimize utilization of existing and future water control structures and systems
  5. Restoring navigability in the basin waterways
  6. Improve management of water levels to allow control of noxious aquatic plants
  7. Restore the basin to as much as possible to its natural state

Project Priorities

Priority 1 – Remove the Dixie Pipeline Spoil Banks
Priority 2 – Address Dispersion of the Flows from the Grimmett Canal
Priority 3 – Replace the Henderson Lake Gates
Priority 4 – Extend Bayou Courtableau inside the Basin and add an Eastern Flood Gate on the River

See the below diagram

The Project submitted for 2019 addresses Priority 1 removal of the Dixie Pipeline Spoil Banks

The plan was approved by the following public officials:
  • Chester Cedar President St. Martin Parish
  • Chris Tauzin Councilman St Martin Parish District 5
  • Sherbin Collette Mayor of Henderson LA
  • Jody Meche Mayor ProTempe of Henderson LA
Additionally, we have  resolutions of support from the following parish government bodies:
  • Avoyelles Parish Police Jury
  • St Landry Parish Council
  • St Martin Parish Council
  • Lafayette Parish Council
The plan sponsors are as follows:
  • LCPA – West
  • St. Martin Parish
  • St Landry Parish
  • Avoyelles Parish
  • Acadian Group Sierra Club
  • Dredge the Vermilion, Inc.