JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 • FOGHORN 45 NEWSWIRE the Mississippi to be captured by the Atchafalaya, according to the new research. Xu believes enough sediment has already accumulated in the area to pose a risk. Another recent study also suggests that by the 2090s, changes in temperature and precipitation could increase the Mississippi River’s flow by nearly 60 percent, increasing the likelihood of frequent and large floods. Rapid urbanization of the area, too, boosts chances of flooding, as paved surfaces deprive the land of its ability to store and slowly release water. “When a mega flood comes, it will overpower the Old River Control Structure, if the river floor elevation continues,” Xu said. Such an event would cause saltwater from the Gulf of Mexico to intrude upstream, Xu said, compromis- ing freshwater for the New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner, and Houma-Bayou Cane-Thibodaux metropolitan areas, which collectively include nearly 1.5 million people. The Mississippi River is serviced by water treatment facilities, though none are designed to process saltwater into freshwater. n www.incatcrowther.com 17 x 26m Catamaran Passenger Ferries | NYC Ferry 4 x 40m Catamaran Passenger Ferries | San Francisco Bay Ferry OPERATIONAL STUDIES FUNCTIONAL DESIGN PRODUCTION DESIGN PROCUREMENT CONSTRUCTION SUPPORT THROUGH-LIFE SUPPORT CONSULTING DESIGNER OF ROBUST, EFFICIENT PASSENGER VESSELS Incat Crowther E V E R E V O L V I N G E V E R I M P R O V I N G Five Reasons to Join PVA in 2018 PVA understands your business and provides superior service so your operation can excel. 1. Aggressive Legislative and Regulatory Representation 2. Industry Experts 3. Safety and Compliance Products, Guidance and Training Tools 4. Alternate Security Program 5. Meetings and Events Learn more at www.passengervessel.com/join.html or call 1-800-807-8360