Water Resource Studies & Data Dissemination Programs

To provide the hydrologic information and understanding needed for the optimum utilization and management of the State’s water resources for the overall benefit of the people of Louisiana. The programs two basic activities planned jointly by DOTD and the USGS consists of (1) collecting water data statewide on a systematic basis for structural design, water supply, reservoir and drainage management, water use and pumpage, flood analysis, aquifer analysis, groundwater availability, monitoring of surface and groundwater for quality and quantity and (2) conducting interpretive hydrologic studies on groundwater modeling, water quality assessments, development of water supplies and associated fields that are "real-world" water problems and concerns.

This is a USGS-DOTD cooperative program in which the USGS in cooperation with DOTD Water Resources Section conducts a water use survey of major water users on a quarterly basis and a survey of other users every five years. The results of both surveys are published every five years as a water resources special report and widely distributed. The 2010 water use survey has been completed and should be ready for distribution shortly.

To collect water data from gaging stations and observation wells scattered throughout the state, and systematically synthesize and disseminate this data to the general public, governmental agencies, industrial facilities and others through the world wide web, reports, maps, telephone calls, meetings, conferences, and/or computerized information services.