Protect Natural Floodplain Functions

Protect Natural Floodplain Functions by Treating our Water Systems Well

A floodplain can be a valuable community resource. Not only can open floodplains store floodwaters which minimize flood damage, the natural vegetation of a floodplain can also filter pollutants from stormwater and improve our water quality.
Jefferson Parish is surrounded by the Mississippi River, many lakes, bayous, and canals; therefore, we must use drainage canals and pumping stations to remove stormwater into the surrounding waterways. Stormwater carries untreated water runoff directly into our storm drains which leads to waterways and impacts our environment.

It is illegal to dump debris such as trash, oil, grease, or other pollutants in catch basins, drainage ditches, or canals. Do not dump anything into any portion of the Town’s drainage system as debris can cause the drainage system to malfunction and increase flooding.

You can help minimize flooding by cleaning catch basins in front of your property when they start to look like this.

Not only is it important to keep our canals free flowing, we must also consider the quality of our waterways as they provide our drinking water and affect the health of our seafood, frogs, and other wildlife that live in our waterways and provide us with food and recreation.

Contact the Town of Jean Lafitte if you have questions or need to report illegal dumping.