University of Houston Coastal Center, - La Marque, Texas

University of Houston Coastal Center: A Comprehensive Overview

For individuals seeking specialized knowledge and resources related to coastal science, engineering, and management, the University of Houston Coastal Center presents a valuable, though currently under-recognized, asset. Located at 5721 FM 2004 in La Marque, Texas 77568, this facility serves primarily as a research and educational hub for the University of Houston’s College of Engineering’s Department of Oceanographic Engineering. While it doesn’t offer direct public courses or tours in the traditional sense, it’s a critical component of the university’s broader commitment to understanding and mitigating the impacts of coastal environments.

Location and Facilities

The Coastal Center’s strategic location along the Gulf Coast provides unparalleled access to real-world coastal environments. This allows researchers and students to conduct practical research and develop innovative solutions to pressing coastal challenges. The facility is designed to support a variety of studies, including:

• Wave Tank Research: A state-of-the-art wave tank is the centerpiece of the center, enabling investigations into wave propagation, storm surge, and coastal erosion.
• Sediment Transport Modeling: Advanced computer modeling capabilities are utilized to simulate sediment movement and predict long-term coastal changes.
• Shoreline Stabilization Studies: Research focuses on developing and evaluating various techniques for protecting coastlines from erosion and flooding.
• Hydrodynamics Research: This area investigates the complex interactions between water and coastal structures.

The center’s infrastructure is continually being upgraded to incorporate the latest technological advancements, ensuring that researchers have access to the tools they need to tackle complex coastal problems. The infrastructure is specifically geared towards supporting cutting-edge research in areas such as resilience and adaptation to climate change.

Specialties and Focus

The University of Houston Coastal Center’s specialties are deeply rooted in the University’s broader academic mission. It primarily functions as a research support facility, providing crucial resources for the College of Engineering’s Department of Oceanographic Engineering. This department focuses heavily on:

• Coastal Engineering
• Wave and Current Dynamics
• Coastal Morphology
• Storm Surge Modeling
• Coastal Risk Assessment

The center’s work directly contributes to the department’s curriculum and research projects, offering students invaluable opportunities to engage in hands-on learning and contribute to real-world solutions. It’s a vital link between theoretical knowledge and practical application in the field of coastal engineering.

Accessibility and Logistics

The Coastal Center is committed to inclusivity and accessibility. It offers a wheelchair accessible entrance and a wheelchair accessible parking lot, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can readily access the facility. However, it’s important to note that public access is primarily limited to researchers, students, and university staff. While the center does not currently maintain a website, information about ongoing projects and research can be obtained through the University of Houston’s College of Engineering website. Contacting the Department of Oceanographic Engineering directly is the best approach for inquiries.

Opinions and Reviews

Currently, the University of Houston Coastal Center has 0 reviews on Google My Business, indicating a lack of publicly available feedback. The average opinion is 0/5, reflecting the limited visibility of this research facility. This low level of engagement doesn't diminish the value of the center's work; rather, it highlights the need for greater outreach and communication about its contributions to coastal science and engineering.

Contact Information

While a dedicated website is unavailable, interested parties can reach the University of Houston’s College of Engineering to inquire about the Coastal Center’s activities and research. Phone contact details are not publicly listed. Further information can be obtained through direct communication with the Department of Oceanographic Engineering.