Richard gives the most comprehensive introduction of the physical and cultural geography of New Orleans: 300 years in 90min covering various Dilemmas and paradoxical conditions. A three hours Q&A helped to understand the consequences of the unthinkable. According to Richard very few people would even entertain the idea of the river diverting.
In his work he advocates for a an alternative mode to manage the deltaic landscape in the future:
Quote from the synthesis report: Comparative assessment of the vulnerability and resilience of 10 deltas:
“There is a direct correlation between maintaining successful
flood protection and waterway navigation infrastructure
systems and the inability to promote a healthy and thriving
delta landscape with its diverse ecologies of wetlands and
marshes. Therefore, research on alternative concepts
of “flexible” and “soft” infrastructure is needed in order
to secure the delta’s safety from floods and protect its
waterborne navigation without compromising the mission
of restoring the wetlands. New research should consider
the natural topography and hydrology of the delta itself
as a crucial form of infrastructure. Likewise, the natural
biological layers of the delta – from aquatic vegetation to
oyster beds – need to be investigated as forms of “living”
infrastructure.”
paradoXcity 