Two Cents: Save Alligator Bayou

There has been a recent controversy involving Alligator Bayou and the elected officials in Ascension and Iberville parishes. A landowner who wants to create a wetland mitigation bank is also in the mix. It all centers on opening the floodgates and the level of water. I am siding with Alligator Bayou. Entrepreneurs Frank Bonifay and Jim Ragland took a risk many years ago and have labored to save something special in our region. The beautiful cypress swamps they have preserved for wildlife and tours, for tourists as well as school children, should get the nod, and the public, and other officials, should support their position. The issue is set to go before the East Ascension Drainage Board at its meeting at 6 p.m. tonight. Send comments to editors@businessreport.com. —Rolfe McCollister