Press Releases
Louisiana Congressional Delegation Introduces Legislation to Reauthorize the Atchafalaya Heritage Area Designation for 15 Years
Washington, DC,
March 17, 2021
Members of Louisiana's Congressional Delegation introduced legislation that would reauthorize the Atchafalaya National Heritage Area (NHA) for 15 years, continuing a commitment to sustain the unique heritage of "America's Foreign Country." Established in 2006, the Heritage Area stretches through 14 parishes and provides support for the region's cultural heritage, increases regional and national attention to the area through tourism, and enhances the ecological habitats and wildlife species. Statements can be found below from U.S. Congressmen Garret Graves, Clay Higgins, Mike Johnson, Steve Scalise and U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy and John Kennedy. Additionally, a statement is provided from Justin Lemoine, Executive Director of the Atchafalaya National Heritage Area. "To put it simply, there is nothing like the Atchafalaya Basin anywhere else on this continent. It is larger, more productive, the source of amazing crawfish and some great people. We need to treasure it, protect it and educate people about all the basin area has to offer from conservation to economic productivity and tourism. The Heritage Area designation helps to highlight and improve the stewardship of the natural resources, culture, and history of this important region," said Graves. "The Atchafalaya National Heritage Area celebrates Cajun culture and history," said Dr. Cassidy. "This bill preserves the celebration while protecting the environment and creating jobs." "The Atchafalaya National Heritage Area is a jewel of Cajun culture and Acadiana's diverse landscapes. I'm happy to join Louisiana's delegation in working to extend its authorization for another 15 years so Louisianians can keep enjoying its natural beauty and rich history," said Kennedy. "The Atchafalaya Basin is an integral part of South Louisiana's culture and heritage. I'm honored to join my colleagues in the Louisiana delegation to support reauthorizing the Basin as a National Heritage Area. This designation provides our state with both economic and environmental benefits," said Higgins. "The Atchafalaya National Heritage Area will help preserve the unique Cajun and Creole cultures found in the Atchafalaya Basin. Today, I am proud to join my Louisiana colleagues in introducing legislation that will reauthorize this designation to help preserve this special Louisiana landmark," said Johnson. "It's vital for our state's culture and unique way of life to preserve and protect the Atchafalaya Basin, and I'm proud to support the Heritage Area reauthorization to enhance conservation efforts and to protect the area's strong cultural heritage for years to come," said Scalise. "The Atchafalaya National Heritage Area highlights the unique flavor of south central Louisiana derived from a blend of people whose cultural traditions are directly related to their storied natural environment. The Heritage Area program serves an essential role to ensure these cultural stories are carried on for future generations," said Lemoine. Stakeholders and elected officials across South Louisiana support the reauthorization including:
Click here for a fact sheet on the NHA. |