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Federal court orders intervention for Bonnet Carré Spillway openings

Biloxi Mayor Andrew "FoFo" Gilich praised the court's decision on Thursday, calling the ruling a victory for Mississippi Gulf Coast conservation efforts.

BILOXI, Miss — A U.S. federal court decision on Wednesday ordered the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to consult with marine experts before opening the Bonnet Carré Spillway in the future.

Biloxi Mayor Andrew "FoFo" Gilich praised the court's decision on Thursday, calling the ruling a victory for Mississippi Gulf Coast conservation efforts.

Part of the concern was the opening of the spillway introduced too much fresh water to the underwater ecosystems in Lake Pontchartrain, putting animals at risk and threatening the local fishing economy. 

"The Coast finally has a foot in the door through the National Marine Fisheries Service for our voices and scientific facts to be heard to prevent the death of the Mississippi Sound," Gilich said. 

The judge in the case heard from local government organizations and businesses that operate near the Mississippi Sound, who argued that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers handling of opening the Spillway caused damage to the environment and the local economy. 

Those groups also cited the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery and Conservation and Management Act, which requires scientific oversight for fish habitats located in certain bodies of water. 

The Corps has until Sept. 30, 2023 to comply with the court's decision.

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