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Join Atchafalaya Basinkeeper for our October ABK Acadiana monthly meeting featuring Dr. Robert Miller, who will be presenting on "Hydrological Trends in Coastal Louisiana: A Link Between Two Extremes". Abstract: The control of destructive floods and adverse saltwater intrusion are ever-present sustainability challenges in coastal Louisiana. However, causal assessment of long-term changes in these key hydrologic processes – and anticipation of future regimes under exceptional rates of relative sea level rise - is confounded by the interaction of many factors. Here we present research findings in the form of two test cases to illustrate (a) the spatial extents of flood risk impacts induced by persistent upward trends in the streamflow record within the historical limits of the Atchafalaya Basin, and (b) the dominant effect of streamflow trends on salinity records across the Louisiana coastline over the past century. And while salinity intrusion and flood risks are typically viewed as hydrological opposites, we articulate linking mechanisms and potential implications of a coupling between the two extremes.
Why does this matter for South Louisiana? Because our communities, homes, farms, fisheries, ecosystems, and drinking-water resources are all affected by changes in water levels and salinity. Understanding what is driving these changes is essential as our coast faces continued sea-level rise and other environmental pressures.
If you live in South Louisiana, this is your coast, your water, and your future. Come learn what the research is telling us and be part of the conversation!
About our speaker: Dr. Robert L. Miller is currently an associate professor and graduate coordinator in the Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. He is also one of three civilian members currently appointed by the President of the United States to serve on the Mississippi River Commission. Dr. Miller's research focuses on the development of mathematical models to help address sustainability problems arising in the areas of river and coastal hydrology. Prior to joining the engineering faculty at ULL, Dr. Miller worked in private industry for over a decade on a variety of projects involving coastal restoration, flood risk assessment and FEMA mapping, drainage impact studies, and comprehensive stormwater master plans. Dr. Miller obtained a PhD in computational and applied mathematics in 2015 from ULL and is a registered professional engineer in the State of Louisiana.
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Event venue
Cavalier House Books - Lafayette, 305 Jefferson St, Lafayette, LA 70501-7011, United States
Tickets
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