National Geographic has published an article on the New Orleans levee system entitled "New Orleans Levees, Are They Safe?". The article indicates, as has been reported from other sources, that the levees are now back to where they were Pre-Katrina, but is that really good enough? A group funded by the NSF with members including UMR Professor J. David Rogers and Berkley professor Bob Bea has pointed out various shortcomings of the levee system. The Corps has responded with the view that the levee system is adequate, and that new flood gates will prevent a storm surge like Katrina’s from overtopping the existing levee system.
Project Related
Possible Seepage at Newly Constructed New Orleans Levee
Wet spots have been detected along a portion of a new levee being constructed by a US Army Corps of Engineers Contractor. The levee is approximately 95% complete, but the Levee Board wants to establish what is causing the apparent seepage before accepting the levee. More after the break. (Photo of Katrina levee failure from greenmannowar)
Conferences
Moretrench Wrapup of Rapid Excavation and Tunneling Conference
GeoPrac sponsor Moretrench was very active at the recent Rapid Excavation and Tunneling Conference in New Orleans earlier this month. VP Paul Schmall helped teach a short course on grouting in underground construction, and Director […]
Available Resources
Corps of Engineers Planning Additiional Sheet-Piling and Deep Soil Mixing along New Orleans Levees
Complete plans have not been released yet, but an environmental impact document outlines general plans for stabilization of the 17th Street Canal in New Orleans using Deep Soil Mixing techniques. Portions of the London Avenue […]