Political Quotes

“My straightforward amendment calls for the Army Corps of Engineers to perform a gulf coast oyster bed recovery assessment. Over the last 20 years, the oyster industry on the Gulf Coast has faced some serious challenges. Hurricane Katrina destroyed so many of our oyster reefs. The Deepwater Horizon oil spill blanketed many oyster growing areas and resulted in substantial harvest reductions. More recently, flooding in 2011 and earlier this year produced increased freshwater discharges into many parts of the Gulf and threw off the mix of fresh- and saltwater that oysters need to thrive. In 2001, oyster landings in the Gulf totaled 25.5 million pounds; in 2014, which is the most recent data available, oyster landings in the Gulf were down to 19.9 million. This is a dangerous decline that really impacts our oystermen and the overall coastal economies. This industry is especially important to the Gulf Coast. The oyster industry generated nearly $100 million in oyster landings by fishermen in the Gulf States in 2014. And we aren't just talking about the oystermen themselves. Having a successful oyster industry also benefits processors, restaurants, transportation, tourism, wholesalers, and retailers. Mr. Chairman, I have visited with our local oystermen, and they are really struggling. It is heartbreaking to hear their stories. This is their livelihood, but also a way of life for these Americans. We can and we must do more to support their industry.…”