The coastal restoration project in Louisiana, aiming to mitigate damage from the 2010 Gulf oil spill, has encountered major setbacks due to allegations of a concealed study by the former administration. Governor Jeff Landry accuses his predecessor of hiding an unfavorable report that could jeopardize the $3 billion Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion project. The controversy has led to the suspension of the project's permit by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, citing deliberate withholding of information. Critics argue the project threatens local industries, while supporters claim political motives are undermining scientific and engineering principles. The state now faces the possibility of losing substantial federal funds if it alters or cancels the project, with the decision pending further action by Governor Landry's administration.

The Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion project, a significant coastal restoration effort funded by BP’s 2010 oil spill settlement, is embroiled in controversy over claims of withheld information that could affect its viability.

Governor Jeff Landry has accused former Governor John Bel Edwards' administration of concealing a study that projected significantly less land creation than officially reported, leading to the suspension of the project's permit by federal authorities.

A confidential memo from 2022 reveals the previous administration was aware of the risks of not disclosing the study, which indicated a need for costly maintenance and dredging and projected only 7 square miles of land creation versus the 21 square miles in the primary model.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers suspended the permit, citing deliberately withheld information, and warned of potential permit revocation if the state fails to respond adequately, risking the return of federal funds allocated for the project.

Governor Landry's administration has expressed concerns about the project's financial feasibility and environmental impact on local fishing industries, suggesting alternatives and halting work temporarily.

Supporters argue that the project's suspension undermines essential restoration efforts, while opponents, including local fishermen, fear detrimental impacts on the ecosystem and economic activities.

The state's coastal agency has allocated $573 million in the 2025 budget for the project, but its future remains uncertain as the legislature reviews the funding amid federal agencies' warnings of financial repercussions if the project is altered.