South Central Chapter's Statement of Purpose for maximizing science in the rebuilding of coastal Louisiana and Mississippi in the aftermath of Hurricanes Rita and Katrina.

We are eager to maximize the role of science in decisions made about rebuilding New Orleans, and the entire Gulf Coast, following hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The enormous expense of modifying and rebuilding our coast requires that all tools used to protect our living areas and industrial facilities from storm surge are feasible and cost-effective to implement and maintain. We believe that

-self-sustaining wetlands can play a significant, cost-effective role in flood control systems. Natural and artificial wetlands should be managed to maximize their effect on storm surge reduction. Flood control systems should promote self-sustaining wetlands to reduced maintenance costs.

-flood control systems should be constructed, operated, and maintained in ways that minimize negative effects of levees and other water control structures on wetlands that support commercial and recreational fishing and hunting, which contribute to the unique and vibrant economic and social systems on the Gulf Coast.

-planning flood control systems will be most efficient and least contentious if wetland functions are integrated into flood control systems at the beginning of the planning process.