Louisiana has long relied on science to guide how it manages its natural resources. From energy to agriculture to fisheries, legislators and regulators have invested in research, monitoring, and expert oversight to ensure decisions are grounded in evidence rather than assumption.

Among the three appropriations bills the Senate is expected to take up this week is one that includes more than $350 million in earmarks for 51 projects in Louisiana. One of those projects would dedicate more than $137 million towards construction and maintenance for flood control work in the Atchafalaya River basin. Senator Bill Cassidy says preventing high water in the Atchafalaya River basin is critical.

Throwing and catching gold, green, and purple beads is a cherished Mardi Gras tradition, but as it turns out, these petroleum-based plastic beads have a heavy impact on the New Orleans environment long after celebrations have ended.

Traditional Mardi Gras beads are produced from natural gas and oil-derived feedstock and take an estimated 500 years to decompose. And when they do, they release heavy metals and other toxins into the environment. According to Louisiana State University, they can even clog sewer systems across the city.

Technology moves fast. For example, five years ago, we were just seeing commercially available selective spraying machines in the U.S., now a handful of companies have hundreds of machines across the country.

Changes in the industry were recognized by Ag Data Transparent, an industry group founded 10 years ago with the goal of bringing greater transparency for farmers and the industry in how data is used, collected and stored.