Harbor of Refuge

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Harbors of refuge are places where commercial fishing vessels can tie up during storm events. Every vessel lost has a direct economic impact on the owner, the navigability of waterways and those ultimately charged with removing the vessel. While extensive research has been conducted on terrestrial evacuation needs and routes, little has been focused on aquatic evacuation needs.

Louisiana Sea Grant previously conducted extensive research into the technical, legal and policy issues surrounding the creation of harbors of refuge in coastal Louisiana following the 2005 hurricane season. The 2020 hurricane season again brought this issue to the forefront. In response, LSG conducted a pilot project evaluating the current status of harbors of refuge in Louisiana, needs of the fishing community, and recommendations for moving forward.

Download: Harbors of Refuge: A Pilot Study in Coastal Louisiana (2021-2023)