Planet Money There Will Be Flood
106 snips
Dec 6, 2024 
Windell Curole, a dedicated advocate for flood protection in southern Louisiana, shares his remarkable journey of defiance against federal regulations. He reveals how he took matters into his own hands after Hurricane Katrina, constructing levees taller and quicker than permitted. The conversation dives into the cultural identity of Cajun Country and the urgent environmental challenges faced by the community. Curole’s bold choices highlight the tension between local needs and bureaucratic obstacles in disaster management, making for a gripping discussion on resilience and preparedness.
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Wendell's Dedication
- Wendell Curole, a Louisiana native, dedicated his career to protecting his community from hurricanes.
- He led the South Lafourche Levee District, partnering with the Army Corps of Engineers to build levees.
Hurricanes' Impact
- Hurricanes are a constant threat in Southern Louisiana, shaping the region's history and priorities.
- Wendell's ancestors had to relocate after a devastating hurricane in 1893.
Army Corps' Role
- The Army Corps of Engineers partners with local communities to build hurricane defenses.
- Their involvement stems from their historical role in taming the Mississippi River and responding to the Great Mississippi Flood of 1927.