The Davis Pond diversion structure, constructed in 2002 in upper Barataria
Basin, has a maximum operating capacity of 10,600 cfs [378 cms]. The
structure has been operated as a salinity management feature, with freshwater
introductions from the Mississippi River ranging from 1,000 cfs up to 5,000
cfs [36 cms to 178 cms] averaging, to this point in time, considerably less
than half of the structure’s capacity. The primary purpose of the existing
Davis Pond project has been to maintain salinity gradients in the central
portion of Barataria Basin. This operation, in effect, partially restored the
historic functions of marsh nourishment (e.g., freshwater inflow, providing
nutrients and sediment to the marsh, and countering the effects of
subsidence). This restoration feature study would assess changes in the
operation of the Davis Pond project to increase wetland creation and
restoration outputs. Modified operation of this structure could potentially
result in an increase in the freshwater introduction rate, perhaps 5,000 cfs
[178 cms] on average, to accommodate the wetland building function of the
system. This study would identify changes to feature’s operation that would
increase restoration outputs. The introduction of additional freshwater would
facilitate organic and sediment deposition, improve biological productivity,
and prevent further deterioration of the marshes. This feature is located in
the vicinity of a historic crevasse. Any proposed change in purpose that
would require modification of the existing project authorization would be
submitted for Congressional approval.