Coastal Land Loss Case: Plaquemines Parish vs. Rozel Operating Company

Dr. Mark Laska, President and Founder of Great Ecology, was retained as an expert witness for a $3B claim against Chevron for coastal land loss in Louisiana. Dr. Laska was witness for the defense focused on rebutting the State’s proposed wetland restoration plan. As part of this effort, Great Ecology conducted detailed analyses to convey how the proposed restoration plans would impact the ecosystem, and to determine whether the project was aligned with the State’s restoration guidance and goals.

The high-profile case went to trial in March 2025, where Dr. Laska delivered testimony supporting Chevron’s position in the case. The verdict ultimately ordered Chevron to pay $744.6M to the State, a significant reduction from the $3B claim.

The case was featured in leading press such as the Wall Street Journal and New York Times:

• “A Bad Business on the Bayou” - Wall Street Journal

• “Chevron Must Pay $745 Million for Coastal Damages, Louisiana Jury Rules” - New York Times

• “Chevron ordered to pay more than $740 million to restore Louisiana coast in landmark trial” - Associated Press