In the News

Officials who are trying to dig the proposed Comite River Diversion Canal recently purchased more than 300 acres of wetlands in the McHugh Swamp to offset the ecological impact of the construction.

While the deal represents a step forward, the canal, which has been discussed since the 1980s, is still years away.

Rep Garret Graves pointed out his work with Louisiana's Congressional delegation to secure $10 million in funding last year and another $4 million so far this year.

The purchase of 313 acres of mitigation land is “a very big deal,” Graves said.

“This project truly is moving forward,” Graves said.

If and when it is built, the canal will connect the Comite to the Mississippi River through the Baker area to lessen flooding in the basin, which also includes the Amite River.

Three parishes — East Baton Rouge, Livingston and Ascension — will profit from the canal and impose 3-mill property taxes to fund the basin commission.

Read the full story here.