re: BP has agreed to pay for restoration projects.

If they are found grossly negligent the penalty per barrel spilled would bring them in the 17-20 billion range. If not grossly negligent, divide that number by 4. Still a lot, but not nearly best case for LA coast. If LA could get them to a settlement figure in the 13-16 range, they would be utterly stupid not to take it.

As for Terrebonne system: most f their islands were rebuilt even before Barataria, but their design lives are up and they are up shite creek being so far from the river and ship shoal for good sand sources. 30+ miles to dredge and pump is $$$$$$$$$. I suspect the Barataria focus will shift to diversions and barrier island building focus will shift back to Terrebonne over the next decade.