accomplished by closely regulating hunting activity during breeding, migration, and 

 wintering activities (Duffy and Hoffpaeur 1966; Herring 1974). In short, habitat 

 preservation is the key to maintenance of the waterfowl resource and an annual recurring 

 income that in most years exceeds $80 million (Larson et al. 1980). 



Species diversity of fresh- and saltwater fish and shellfish in the coastal lowlands 

 results in fishing generating the highest participation rates of all the recreational 

 activities. As a year-round leisure-time activity that varies with the breeding cycle of 

 the various fish species, water levels, fishing pressure, and habitat productivity (Lambou 

 1963), fishing-related expenditures exceed $40 million annually (International Marine 

 Expositions 1978). More than 1 1,000 km (7,000 mi) of wetland shoreline provide more 

 than 390,000 resident fishermen with extensive recreational opportunities. Since 1950, 

 the number of resident licenses in the coastal marshes has increased by more than 

 100,000. This indicates that sport fishing is a popular recreational pastime and one that 

 will continue to grow in popularity. Consequently, Louisiana will need more fishing 

 areas, not less. 



Along Louisiana's coast there are 60 species of fish that are associated with the 

 estuarine or marine environments (Mclntire et al. 1975). Freshwater fisherman seek a 

 diversity of fish species, especially largemouth bass (considered the top gamefish), 

 catfish, "sac-a-lait" or crappie, and bluegill or bream. The black bass (largemouth bass) 

 Is considered the state's most sought-after game fish. Whereas, saltwater fisherman 

 primarily catch spotted seatrout, Atlantic croaker (Micropogon undulatus ), one of the 

 most abundant commerical fish along the gulf coast (Rogillio 1975), redfish (Sciaenops 

 ocellata ), sometimes referred to as "bull" or "rat" reds, and black drum (Pogonias 

 cromis) . The spotted seatrout is the main species caught, representing 40% of the daily 

 saltwater fish catch (Louisiana Wild Life and Fisheries Commission 1970). 



In addition, offshore there are more than 2,500 oil and gas platforms that serve as 

 artificial reefs for fish communities. The fishing activity near the "rigs" is often 

 excellent. To take advantage of this clustering, 40 to 50 charter boats ferry saltwater 

 anglers to these sites. 



It is apparent that the recreational sportsman benefits greatly from Louisiana's 

 wetlands. The area is a recreational resource of inestimable value. It has been utilized 

 throughout this century to meet the leisure-time needs of the State's inhabitants and 

 others. Those who take advantage of this unique environment recognize its value, since 

 they provide millions of recreational efforts per year. Unfortunately, as the area is lost, 

 the habitats perferred by the game birds and fish will dwindle, thus affecting an industry 

 that contributes an estimated $200 million to Louisiana's economy. Loss of this revenue 

 will result in the collapse of the infrastructure that is supported by the industry. Also 

 affected will be the number of unhappty individuals who can no longer profit from a 

 marsh that provides the water-oriented sportsman with unexcelled recreational 

 opportunities. 



FROM AGRICULTURE TO OIL: THE CHANGE IN LAND USE PATTERNS 



Throughout Louisiana's history, agricultural activities have occupied an important 

 position in the wetland's social and economic environment. The wealth gained from 

 hydrocarbons, commercial fishing and trapping, industrial development and tourism do 

 not overshadow the value of agricultural products. The favorable climate and fertile 



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