Plaquemines is Louisiana's southernmost parish where the Mississippi River meets the Gulf of Mexico. The parish economy is based on seafood, oil, and citrus. Belle Chasse on the westbank is the largest population center. La Highway 23 snakes along the westbank of the river past Myrtle Grove, Empire and terminates in Venice only 5 miles above the Head of Passes. On the eastbank, highway 39 goes less than half as far.

Looking at a map of Plaquemines you might think it is one of the largest parishes in Louisiana. Years ago that might have been true. Sadly, today little is left of the parish except dying marsh and a thin strip of land along the river levee. Over the years the parish outside the protection of the levees has disappeared into the open water of the gulf. Look at the satellite image to see for yourself.

On April 12, 2006 Donald Powell implied that restoration of Plaquemines levees below Belle Chasse may not be funded by the federal government. This may be a first step toward coastal restoration, It becomes an emotionally charged issue for residents of the parish. The population center at Braithwaite on the east bank, just outside St. Bernard parish is left guessing what this might mean for them.



Message from the Parish President Benny Rousselle
We have undergone great devastation in our parish due to Hurricane Katrina and Rita. Each day I witness the destruction of every community in Plaquemines Parish. It is heart wrenching to see what has happened to the place we call home. I vow to work to the best of my ability to clean the roads and streets and dewater the lands as soon as possible so that you may return to where you once lived. I warn the residents of South Plaquemines and the East bank to prepare themselves for what is ahead. You will not recognize your community and at times will find yourself lost and confused. It will not be easy. Please know that everyone in this government is working hard to restore services so that you can perhaps begin again in Plaquemines Parish. This will not be an overnight process. We are looking at years of recovery. My prayers go out to each and every citizen of Plaquemines Parish. I am doing everything I can to make this easier for you and your family