Located in Donaldsonville, Louisiana, the Mississippi River Reintroduction into Bayou Lafourche project aims to address the critical issue of freshwater supply in South Louisiana. For nearly 120 years, Bayou Lafourche has been disconnected from the Mississippi River, leading to declining freshwater resources for numerous communities and ecosystems.

The project seeks to rectify this by constructing a new pump station to increase freshwater intake from the Mississippi River into Bayou Lafourche. By providing a reliable and long-term water supply, this increased freshwater flow will benefit over 300,000 residents across Ascension, Assumption, Lafourche, and Terrebonne Parishes. Additionally, it will introduce beneficial freshwater to coastal marshes, supporting fisheries and wetland ecosystems.

The project involves several key components: intake pipes to draw water from the Mississippi River, a pump station to propel the water, discharge pipes to transport the water, and an outfall-discharge box to regulate the velocity of water into Bayou Lafourche. By implementing these components, the project aims to restore the historical connection between the Mississippi River and Bayou Lafourche, ensuring a sustainable water supply for future generations and safeguarding the delicate coastal ecosystem.

This project is crucial for the long-term sustainability of South Louisiana. Addressing the freshwater shortage and restoring ecological balance will contribute to the region's economic, environmental, and social well-being. Successful implementation of this project will have far-reaching positive impacts on the region's communities and ecosystems.

The pump station improvement project is expected to be completed in 2026.