Morgan City 2050
Spring 2016
Program: A deltaic research facility that engages both the public and private sectors for learning, testing, and exploration in the Louisiana delta.
The convergence of the Atchafalaya River and Drew's Pass just north of Morgan City, LA, is a prime example of the dynamic flow found throughout the Louisiana delta. With the Atchafalaya Basin providing positive land growth in the delta, the land around Morgan City is becoming increasingly secure, making the city a promising location for a deltaic research headquarters.
Using RealFlow fluid modeling software, the flow of sediment in the Atchafalaya River and Drew's Pass were modeled to predict the accumulation of sediment around a batture just outside the leveed walls of Morgan City. The choice of location became valid when the structures placed in the dynamic environment slowly aggregated flowing river sediment forming new land. The result is a stable deltaic research headquarters and a localized example of the dynamic changing environment found throughout the delta.
Model showing aggregated sediment and new land around heavy pile structures. This model shows the main buildings of the research facility, including the central public and education spaces, the wet and dry research labs to the right, and the testable, adaptable landscape to the left.
Studies using Real-Flow modeling software to test river flow against proposed structures. Over fifty years, the sediment aggregates around the structures and builds up new land at the convergence of the Atchafalaya River and Drew's Pass.
Phase 01_Main research labs, tower, and main dock.
Phase 02_Addition of private research program and dock, as well as public educational wing.
Phase 03_Integration of adaptable program into dynamic landscape.
Diagrammatic section showing the research centers response to three different water levels. The location outside of the flood protection levee allows to facility to react to the large change in water level over time.
Mapping of Morgan City, LA shows clear residential and educational district in the heart of town and the bustling port district to the south.
Mapping of various environmental conditions throughout the coastal delta. Barrier islands serve to protect the inland marshes. The delta lobes to the east have experienced great land loss, while the lobes connected to the Atchafalaya River are experiencing positive land growth and an increased sediment flow.