Several DNR coastal officials have authored an international scientific publication highlighting the development of reconstruction plans for the disappearing Louisiana barrier islands.

The Journal of Coastal Research (Special Issue Number 44), focuses on the loss of coastal wetlands in Louisiana and the problems associated with the dramatic land loss. The issue is a compilation of scientific papers related to coastal land loss in Louisiana, including restoration of degrading delta front barrier islands and wetlands.

DNR Deputy Secretary Randy Hanchey recognized the value of compiling various documents of the Louisiana Coastal Area (LCA) Report for scientific and technical leaders throughout the world to read and review.

According to Hanchey, the publishing of the documents in an international journal of coastal sciences as peer reviewed scientific papers provides greater exposure and communication with scientists and coastal researchers.

The journal was distributed during Summer 2005.

Contributing authors, writers, and coastal experts are Syed Khalil of OCRM Coastal Engineering Division, and Dr. Charles Finkl, editor-in-chief of Journal of Coastal Research (JCR), Randy Hanchey, Acting Assistant Secretary Gerry Duszynski, and OCRM Engineering Administrator Christropher P. Knotts.

Editorial Board contributors are Dr. James Houston (USACE), Dr. Bob Dean (Univ. of Florida), Dr. Shea Penland (UNO), Tom Campbell (CP&E), David Burkholder (DNR), Darin Lee (DNR) and Gregory Grandy (DNR) .