Louisiana Students Raise Their Voices for a Disappearing Coast: A Call to Stewardship, Hope, and Action

LOUISIANA STUDENTS BRING COASTAL LAND LOSS INTO THE SPOTLIGHT

A group of students from Southside High School is bringing renewed attention to one of Louisiana’s most pressing environmental challenges: the rapid loss of coastal land. Through their Future Farmers of America (FFA) debate team, these young advocates are learning how coastal erosion affects families, fishermen, wildlife, and the future of communities across South Louisiana.

For Rose Fontenot, the issue once seemed distant. However, after months of research and preparation, she and her teammates earned first place at the Louisiana FFA Convention in June. The students are preparing to represent Louisiana at the national FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis this October, demonstrating how young people can become informed voices for their communities.

From a Christian perspective, their efforts reflect the biblical call to care for God’s creation. Genesis 2:15 teaches that humanity was placed in the garden of Eden “to dress it and to keep it” (KJV). This responsibility reminds believers that caring for the land and its natural resources is an important part of faithful stewardship.

LEARNING FROM THE PEOPLE MOST AFFECTED

Under the guidance of teacher Amy Mire, seven students have spent months studying coastal restoration, saltwater intrusion, dredging, oyster farming, and the protective role of Louisiana’s barrier islands. Their preparation included meeting with researchers, public officials, local businesses, shrimpers, and oyster farmers.

During a field trip to St. Bernard Parish, the students witnessed firsthand how disappearing wetlands affect people whose livelihoods depend on the coast. They learned that coastal restoration is not simply an environmental debate; it is also a matter of family heritage, economic survival, and community stability.

Proverbs 18:13 reminds readers that answering a matter before hearing it is folly and shame. By listening to people with different experiences, these students are learning the importance of understanding their neighbors before forming conclusions.

COASTAL RESTORATION AND COMPETING CONCERNS

The students’ debate centers partly on the Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion, an ambitious coastal restoration project intended to use the Mississippi River’s sediment to help rebuild Louisiana’s disappearing wetlands. While supporters viewed the project as an investment in the coast’s future, many shrimpers and oyster farmers feared changes to salinity and water conditions could damage their harvests and threaten their livelihoods.

In 2025, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry canceled the project during construction after opposition from coastal industries. Approximately $618 million in oil spill settlement funds had already been spent on its development.

Student Tucker Berken explained that representing shrimpers helped him understand why some people opposed a project he had initially supported. His experience illustrates the value of considering multiple perspectives when difficult decisions affect entire communities.

A FUTURE WORTH PROTECTING

For students such as Rynn Babineaux and Port Wells, the loss of wetlands raises serious questions about the future of Louisiana. They have seen places where homes and camps once stood replaced by open water. Their concerns extend beyond today’s political disagreements to the safety, livelihoods, and opportunities of future generations.

Psalm 24:1 declares, “The earth is the LORD’S, and the fulness thereof” (KJV). This passage offers a reminder that the natural world is not merely a resource to consume but a responsibility to protect.

Although the students acknowledge that political conversations can be discouraging, they believe education and public engagement can give young people a stronger voice. Their journey demonstrates that meaningful change can begin when ordinary citizens are willing to learn, listen, and speak courageously.

A PRAYER FOR LOUISIANA’S COASTAL COMMUNITIES

Heavenly Father, we lift up the people of coastal Louisiana, especially the families, fishermen, shrimpers, oyster farmers, and communities facing the painful effects of land loss. Comfort those who fear losing their homes, livelihoods, and cherished places. Give wisdom to our elected leaders, scientists, and community advocates as they consider decisions that will shape our state’s future.

Lord, bless these Southside High School students and their teacher. Strengthen their courage, deepen their understanding, and help them speak with truth, humility, and compassion. Guide our communities toward solutions that responsibly care for creation while respecting the people whose lives depend on the coast.

As Psalm 46:1 reminds us, You are “a very present help in trouble.” May those facing uncertainty find hope, and may Louisiana’s people work together with wisdom and perseverance to protect the land entrusted to them.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.