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The Lafayette Parish Bayou Vermilion District was created in 1984 through a locally-sponsored act of the State Legislature and the Governor’s corresponding signature of approval.
The Bayou Vermilion District consists of three entities:
Administrative Offices located in the District Office, 340 Fisher Road
Bayou Operations located at 350 Fisher Road
Vermilionville a folklife and heritage park located at 300 Fisher Road
Our
Mission
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To do any and all acts to enhance the general condition of the Bayou Vermilion
It is our belief that a healthy watershed is vital for a healthy environment and economy. Our watershed is a dynamic and unique place. It is a complex web of natural resources - soil, water, air, plants and animals. Yet, everyday activities can affect these resources, ultimately affecting our well-being and economic livelihood.
Bayou Vermilion District prides itself in preserving both natural and cultural resources. As such, its heritage and folklife park located on the banks of Bayou Vermilion, opened in 1990.
Preserving our natural resources:
Water quality has improved greatly since we began our work. Back then, in the 1980's, the Bayou Vermilion was considered one of the most polluted waterways in the nation. Over the past 20 years, the major pollution issues have been addressed and the watershed is coming back to life. Yet more work needs to be done.
To protect the Bayou Vermilion watershed for the long run, we will:
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Enable residents to learn about watershed protection through public presentations, distribution of information, seminars, classroom workshops, summer camps, and day trips, and create the means for them to take an active role in protecting their watershed
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Actively promote and develop recreational amenities throughout the Bayou Vermilion watershed
Although the Lafayette Parish Bayou Vermilion District has been around for over 20 years, this website is very new. We will add news of current projects and upcoming events, post publications and information, and provide updates on our activities.
In the past, the waters of the Bayou Vermilion have played a very important role in the transportation of goods up and down river. Although we no longer depend on the river as a form of commerce, its cleanliness and beauty still affect our local economy.
Preserving our cultural resources:
Vermilionville authentically portrays a way of life preserved with a distinctly French accent. Situated on the banks of the Bayou Vermilion, this Cajun/Creole heritage and folklife park recreates life in the Acadiana area between 1765 and 1890.
The beautiful grounds, which are laid out as an historic village, contain eighteen structures, including six restored original homes. In most of the structures, costumed interpreters demonstrate traditional crafts or musical styles.
A full-service restaurant, gift shop and art gallery enhance time spent at Vermilionville. The gift shop and art gallery are filled with Cajun and Creole items (many of which are made by our craftspeople) that you are sure to bring home and treasure. |
