Marsh Terraces

Restoration Strategy: Terraces will be constructed in water depths ranging from one to two feet. Each terrace, arranged in an alternating pattern at 30-degree angles (which makes them look like duck wings from the air), will be 1,000 feet long, 40 feet wide at its base and about 10 feet wide at its top. The surface of each terrace will be approximately two feet above water level and will be planted with vegetation to reduce erosion. They will be designed in a V shape so that regardless of the wind direction, calm water will exist on the downwind side of the terrace.

Purpose: The project calls for the construction of approximately 27 linear miles of terraces that will have several functions. The resulting calm water will provide conditions suitable for submersed aquatic vegetation production while the actual terrace crown will provide nesting sites for resident wildlife like the American alligator and mottled duck. Submersed aquatic vegetation and seeds of annual marsh plants are the staples provided by healthy Louisiana coastal marshes that have historically sustained millions of ducks through the fall and winter. The reduction in wave energy will result in reduced shoreline erosion surrounding the project areas. To ensure longevity of each terrace, plugs of smooth cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora) were planted at the waters edge. The project will increase the carrying capacity of wintering, migration, and breeding habitat for wetland-dependent migratory birds, improve and increase fisheries habitat, and will contribute directly to the objectives of the Gulf Coast Joint Venture.