Overview

The Birdsfoot Delta of the Mississippi River is a critical region supporting historic communities, diverse ecosystems, and a major economic hub, with over $400 million in commerce passing through daily. However, the delta is rapidly disappearing, threatening both local and global interests. The future trajectory of these changes and the best ways for people to respond remain uncertain.

In 2021, the Gulf Research Program (GRP) of the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) initiated discussions on how to address the delta’s challenges. This led to the formation of the Mississippi River Delta Transition Initiative (MissDelta), a $22 million, five-year research effort involving 38 coastal scholars from 14 institutions. Scholars from Tulane and Louisiana State University helped shape this initiative, which aims to provide solutions for communities, industries, and governments.

MissDelta also seeks to increase in coastal science studies and career pathways for regional institutions. The initiative promotes co-production, a collaborative approach where universities, businesses, communities, and government agencies work together to develop research-driven solutions. Through this effort, MissDelta hopes to guide stakeholders in making informed decisions to protect the delta’s future.