Watershed Models and Data
Through the Louisiana Watershed Initiative, the state invested CDBG-MIT funds to develop hydrologic and hydraulic (H&H) models of Louisiana’s major watersheds alongside federal, local and regional partners. The models are critical resources supporting state and local efforts to better understand and navigate flood risks, positioning Louisiana as a national leader in flood risk management.
Watershed Models
The LWI team is developing a data viewer to house watershed model data and results, expected to be completed in mid-2026, providing a platform for users without technical modeling experience to explore and understand the outputs.
The models are available via the Environmental Data & Model Catalog (EnDMC), where users with modeling software experience can create accounts to access models and simulations filed.
Nature-Based Solutions Tools
To complement the models, the state developed nature-based solutions tools to assess and leverage the benefits of our natural ecosystems in flood risk reduction projects.
RTI International developed a hydrologic modeling tool to simulate daily streamflow and water quality for evaluating the impact of nature-based solutions on watershed sustainability.
The Nature Conservancy and RTI International developed an interactive map for exploring preliminary opportunity areas and associated criteria for nature-based solutions projects.
A Guided and Informed Model Development Process
Modeling consultants developed models for seven regions, each encompassing multiple watersheds. This process was guided by technical experts from the following:
FEMA Region 6
Louisiana Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority
Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality
Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development
Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries
National Weather Service
The Water Institute
Tulane University
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers