The historic coastal community of Mandeville, Louisiana (1834), located on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain, is unique in that it is not protected from flooding by a levee, but by a 5-foot sea wall. The community is witnessing the changing climate impacts of flooding and winds first-hand.

Mandeville has used the last 18 years and 17 flood events, since Hurricane Katrina, to flood adapt hundreds of historic buildings, resulting in far fewer damages and greatly shortened recovery time, which is commonly referred to as flood resilience. The community estimates that over 80% of its historic buildings have been adapted. Like many many communities, Mandeville’s earliest settlement was on the water due to our historic transportation on the water.

This field study will reveal the "laboratory" of adaptation, from the first structural engineered designs to the current Mandeville Design Committee and Historic Preservation reviewed project, many of which are featured in the NPS Flood Adaptation Guidelines.

The field trip will involve a motor coach trip on the National Engineering Landmark bridge across Lake Pontchartrain, a walking tour of the magnificent Lakeshore Drive and the adapted historic buildings, a presentation and lunch at a historic building overlooking the lake, a short workshop to review the Secretary of the Interior’s "Flood Adaptation Guidelines," and an interactive session with field trip participants.

Participants travel by bus for a portion of the Field Study; however some brief walking will be required. Please dress appropriately with comfortable shoes and rain gear as appropriate. Water will be provided if you forget your water bottle.

Pre-Registration is required to attend this session.

Forum Member Rate: $65.00

Non Forum Member Rate: $75.00