The U.S. Gulf Coast has experienced more than its typical share of disasters in the past decade. Extreme weather events and manmade disasters have challenged the area regarding prudent water and groundwater management — too much, not enough where needed, or water quality challenges. Coastal and inland communities, as well as thriving urban centers, face continuing and variable challenges on how best to cope with large-scale catastrophes that threaten water resources from both the quality and quantity perspectives. Broken levees and storm surges can impart saltwater contamination or intrusion into local coastal groundwater supplies. Overpumping of groundwater for both water supplies and construction dewatering can induce subsidence in already-threatened lowland areas. Safe solid waste disposal for storm debris and construction waste is a challenge as multiple natural disasters stress landfills that were already near capacity. What technologies, new tools, and technological advancements can be applied to meet these challenges? And, as a result, what opportunities are being created for groundwater professionals in the Gulf Coast region?
Abstracts for this conference were due April 23, 2012 and are currently under review. Once chosen, a link to the online conference program will be posted here. Topics under consideration include:
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Baton Rouge Marriott5500 Hilton AvenueBaton Rouge, Louisiana 70808800 228.9290 (reservations)225 924.5000fax 225 926.8152
Accommodations: NGWA has secured a limited block of rooms on a first come, first served basis at the group rate of $99 per night. These rates apply to the NGWA room block and are valid until the September 21, 2012 cutoff, unless our block has been filled before that date. When making your reservations, be sure to mention you are attending this NGWA program to receive this group rate. Remember, you are responsible for securing your own reservations. For guest check-in and checkout times, please contact the hotel directly.