Three contracts have been awarded to two local companies to install nearly 140,000 native dune and marsh plants on three key barrier islands along Louisiana’s coast. The awards, totaling $632,000, were announced today by the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources and NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries. The planted vegetation will reduce erosion on 600 acres, increasing the life span of East Timbalier Island, Grand Terre Island and the Chandeleur Islands

The state Department of Natural Resources’ Office of Conservation is spreading the word today on water conservation. Joining the National Ground Water Association (NGWA), the American Farm Bureau Federation, and many other national groups that promote the importance of protecting water supplies.