August 21, 2014 — A huge blasting operation by an energy exploration company in prime shrimping waters has pit oilmen against fishermen, who say it interferes with what had promised to be a lucrative white shrimp season.
The exploration firm, Houston-based Castex Energy, says it has done all that is required and more before commencing their 400-plus square mile, $50 million project, which requires detonation of C-4 and other explosives beneath state waters.
A Tri-Parish Times review of documents and interviews with federal, state and private industry officials as well as fishermen, meanwhile, reveals strong evidence to support allegations that shrimpers were thrown under the boat by the very state agency that is supposed to protect them.
“We have learned from this experience and will apply the lessons learned to future permitted activities along the coast,” said Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Secretary Robert Barham, responding to allegations that his agency dropped the ball by scheduling major explosive work and the shrimping season to commence at the same time.
LDWF plays a key role in permitting seismic exploration within state waters.
Read the full story at the Tri-Parish Times