Louisiana is home to 40% of the coastal wetlands in the continental U.S., but it is also experiencing the fastest rate of land loss in the world, with maps shrinking each year.
The Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium (LUMCON) partners with 42 universities across the state to promote coastal wetland conservation and research. LUMCON offers research opportunities for faculty, graduate students, and undergraduates, including supplemental lectures, internships, fellowships, and short-term facility stays of up to 21 days. These opportunities allow students, artists, and journalists to collect data onsite.
Current research focuses on land loss, which is linked to several factors, including natural disasters, oil and gas production, and global warming. Research in biophysics and coastal geology explores the interface between land and water and how the natural laws of physics apply to biological phenomena. Biogeochemistry, which examines how chemical, physical, geological, and biological processes interact in the environment, is also integral to wetland conservation and research.
Dr. Brian Roberts, executive director and chief scientist of LUMCON, discussed his goals regarding university engagement. "We are a large consortium trying to identify students and faculty who can directly engage with the activities that we have down on the coast, as well as engage with other universities. Part of our role is to facilitate collaboration and provide opportunities," he said.
As sea levels continue to rise, coastal living and conservation remain growing challenges, but according to Roberts, it’s a problem we can all work together to mitigate.
For more information about LUMCON and its higher education partnerships and opportunities, visit lumcon.edu/university.
