Geologic Framework and Processes of the Lake Pontchartrain Basin

Also, land-altering activities such as logging, dredging, and flood control in and around the lake, lead to shoreline erosion and loss of wetlands.The effects of pollution, shoreline erosion and wetland loss on the lake and surrounding areas have become a major public concern. To better understand the basin's origin and the processes driving its development and degradation requires a wide-ranging study involving many organizations and personnel.

When the U.S. Geological Survey began the study of Lake Pontchartrain in 1994, information on four topics was needed: -Geologic Framework, or how the various sedimentary layers that make up the basin are put together -Sediment Characterization, that is, what are the sediments made of, where did they come from, and what kinds of pollutants do they contain -Shoreline and Wetland Change over time -what are the processes that control Water Circulation [Summary provided by the USGS.]