Fishermen Are Paying For America's Gas Boom. So Are You.

Quick Overview

The expansion of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) export facilities in Cameron Parish, Louisiana, is devastating the local seafood industry, particularly oyster and shrimp harvesting, leading to financial hardship for lifelong residents who receive minimal compensation for the environmental damage caused by dredging and facility operations.

Key Points: Shrimp catches in the Calcasieu Basin have dropped by about half (from nearly 2 million pounds in 2016 to under 1 million pounds in 2023) following the start of LNG operations. Oyster farmer Tad LeJeune states that half of his oysters die, costing him hundreds of thousands of dollars, and he is forced to continue working until he cannot physically continue. Venture Global's CP1 LNG facility began operations prior to 2016, and its subsequent expansion (CP2 LNG) is causing further environmental damage through dredging spoil placement. Venture Global allegedly settled with some affected individuals, such as the LeJeunes, for $20,000 under a non-disparagement agreement. The US is projected to be the top LNG exporter by 2024, with domestic gas prices rising due to increased exports, which directly impacts American consumers' energy bills. Former President Trump reportedly asked oil executives, including Venture Global CEO Mike Sabel, to raise $1 billion for his campaign, promising to deliver on deregulation and favor the industry. Louisiana state tax breaks (ITEP) for LNG facilities will cost Louisiana parishes an estimated $21 billion in infrastructure funds through 2040.

Context: This video documentary focuses on the impact of the rapidly expanding Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) export industry along the Louisiana coast, specifically in Cameron Parish, on local, long-standing industries like commercial fishing and shrimping. It contrasts the massive industrial growth, supported by political figures like former President Trump, with the economic and environmental struggles faced by local workers whose livelihoods depend on the affected waterways.