Bayou Blockade

Bayou Blockade Newsletter delivers crucial information about petrochemical industry activities directly to St. Charles Parish residents. We only send out updates when relevant industrial developments occur, particularly in the St. Rose area, with special attention to IMTT operations and their community impact. Led by husband-and-wife team Joseph Coco and Becca Hillburn, this citizen-driven newsletter tracks permit applications, regulatory reviews, and corporate accountability in our parish. We translate complex environmental data into clear information that residents can use to protect their families and homes with actionable prompts. Joseph Coco brings his biomedical data science expertise to analyze emissions data, health impacts, and regulatory compliance. His investigative approach uncovers connections between corporate practices and community health outcomes, ensuring residents understand what's really happening beyond the industry press releases. Becca Hillburn's environmental science background combines with her deep roots in St. Charles Parish, where her family has lived for over 300 years. This unique perspective bridges scientific understanding with generational knowledge of how our landscape and communities have changed with industrial development. Together, they employ multiple strategies to prevent further petrochemical expansion: Tracking and analyzing permit applications at every stage Investigating corporate ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) commitments and documenting violations Building relationships with journalists to amplify community concerns Researching international buyers and partners to identify pressure points in corporate supply chains Reaching out to parish officials to ensure they're informed Bayou Blockade is dedicated to preserving our parish's environment, health, and future for generations to come.