Plans coming together for anti-erosion Water Institute

An executive director for The Water Institute, a proposed nonprofit scientific research entity focused on coastal issues, could be hired by the end of the year, says John Spain, Baton Rouge Area Foundation vice president. BRAF is setting up the basic framework for the institute, which is envisioned as an independent hub for coastal erosion and water management solutions that can be applied throughout the world. The first few scientists and support staffers may be hired by the end of this year or early 2012, Spain says; the institute could eventually include 300 to 500 scientists, working either permanently onsite or part-time. A location has not been identified. Spain says the state’s universities have agreed to share their scientists, and SSA Consultants is working on the details of how those relationships would be structured. “Almost without exception, everyone agrees that while a lot of good work is being done in the state today, it’s not very well coordinated,” he says. “If we are successful in creating a neutral playing ground without the politics, based on good science, everybody agrees that is a good idea.” Early planning drafts indicate a $50 million annual budget, ramping up to between $100 million and $150 million over several years. A 2009 analysis by McKinsey & Co. says the state could create 20,000 to 45,000 direct and indirect jobs by 2029 by leveraging project work, funding and expertise in water management. “While we have a lot more work to do, all the indications are that this thing will become a reality,” Spain says. —David Jacobs