Conservation on Tap: Listening to the Coast, One Conversation at a Time
This summer, my colleague Johnny Marquez and I have focused on connecting with coastal communities through Conservation on Tap events with Vanishing Paradise. These gatherings offer more than just updates on local restoration projects—they create space for meaningful conversations, relationship-building, and community feedback. By meeting people where they are and listening to what matters most to them, we’re helping ensure restoration efforts reflect the priorities and perspectives of the communities they impact. And of course, enjoying a cold beverage doesn’t hurt the conversation either.
Lafourche Parish – Barataria Basin Projects
Our first event took place in Lafourche Parish at Grady V’s. VP was able to connect with local residents, including landowners, business leaders, and parish officials about coastal restoration efforts in the Barataria Basin. With our partners Ducks Unlimited and Restore or Retreat, both of whom are doing impactful work in the bayou region, we also gathered some critical feedback from the community to help ensure that future restoration decisions reflect their desired outcomes.
Biloxi, MS – Chandeleur Islands in the Spotlight
Johnny led our second event in Biloxi, Mississippi, focused on the Chandeleur Islands restoration. These islands, although part of Louisiana, are popular with both Louisiana and Mississippi fishermen. We were joined by Todd Baker from CPRA, as well as local fishing guides and residents, for an engaging discussion on the restoration process for Chandeleur. Special thanks to Chandeleur Island Brewing Company for supporting the event with cold local craft beer!
Hammond, LA – Maurepas Swamp and Lake Pontchartrain
Our most recent Conservation on Tap was at Gnarly Barley Brewing in Hammond, co-hosted with the Mississippi River Delta Coalition and Pontchartrain Conservancy and focused on future planning for coastal Louisiana.
MRD intern Abbie Holliday spoke about 2029 Coastal Master Plan projects, and I updated the group on the River Reintroduction into Maurepas Swamp project, which has the potential to restore 40,000 acres of wetlands for public access and wildlife. Pontchartrain Conservancy also shared some of their water quality work, reinforcing the importance of protecting Lake Pontchartrain for recreation and drinking water.
Providing opportunities for community members to come together and learn about coastal restoration, the Master Plan process and ongoing projects is vital when it comes to our coastal work. The turn out at these events demonstrates that people want to be involved and have their voices heard. We’re looking to plan more events in the near future, and if you’re interested in organizing one in your coastal community, please don’t hesitate to reach out.