Supporting Atchafalaya Basin Fisherman, Congressman Landry Applauds LDWF Clarification

Press Release

Congressman Jeff Landry (R, LA-03) applauded the clarification made late last night by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) that commercial fisheries in the Atchafalaya Basin will remain open.

"I am pleased that the LDWF has finally refuted the reports that the Atchafalaya Basin would prematurely be closed to fishing operations," said Landry. "During flood fights and all emergencies, rumors can spread to the point they become reality. It is the responsibility of elected officials and government agencies to squash these rumors by telling our citizens the truth."

"While safety of the local citizens should be the federal and state government's primary focus, all levels of government should take every step possible to minimize the hardships to industry that result from their decisions," said Landry. "A closure of the Basin fisheries would be financially disastrous to my constituents so I am thrilled the hard-working fisherman in the Basin will remain open for business."

Landry has fought for the workers in the Atchafalaya Basin including sending a letter yesterday afternoon imploring the United States Coast Guard, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the Governor's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness to take every possible action in delaying the closure of the Basin's fisheries. Landry's efforts did not go unnoticed.

Stacey Broussard, a crawfisherman and producer from Coteau Holmes, thanked Congressman Landry for his efforts. "My fellow fisherman and I are very grateful for the support of Congressman Landry in helping us stay open for business. His letter yesterday provided the pressure needed to get a direct answer from LDWF and to allow us remaining at work. I appreciate all of Congressman Landry's help," said Broussard.

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