The Water Institute

Our mission is to reduce the vulnerability of people, communities, ecosystems, and economies through transformative approaches to interconnected environmental and social challenges. We serve as a thought partner, bridging diverse disciplines and organizations. We draw on our roots in the Mississippi River Delta and Gulf, where water is both a strength and a vulnerability, to tackle challenges wherever they are.

Water sustains us, connects us, and powers our ecosystems and economies. Yet, water also has the power to disrupt, displace, and devastate.

The Water Institute was launched here in south Louisiana in the aftermath of the most devastating water-related disasters. Here are some of the ways we are making an impact:
•Monitoring a 1200-acre wetland restoration project south of New Orleans
•Supporting the ecosystem restoration of Louisiana's Chandeleur Islands, enhancing the protective barrier islands and the seagrasses that support sea turtles and nesting birds
•Working with the United Houma Nation to support their resilience planning in the face of land loss and the more frequent extreme weather threatening their homes and way of life.

As an independent, non-profit, applied research institution, we bring together researchers across planning and policy, geology, ecology, scientific modeling, and more to address the complex questions presented by a changing environment.

Testimonials

"We understand that the only way to restore balance is through science-based solutions, and The Water Institute leads the way in making that happen. [...] The Water Institute's experts are committed to finding practical ways to mitigate threats both to and from water, providing those answers through transformative science and technology." Christy Brown, board member of The Water Institute, managing member of NOLA Holidings, LLC and chair of McIlhenny Company.