Students in the Engineering class recently completed a project where they built levees to protect a model "city." First, they learned about hurricanes, our city's below-sea-level location, and the systems used to prevent flooding, including pump stations and levees. They also explored the flow of water out of the city and how storm gates prevent flood surges, leading to a discussion about Hurricane Katrina and the Army Corps of Engineers' response to improve protection.

For the activity, each group received $10 in pretend money to "purchase" materials from the teacher, such as sand, clay, gravel, and popsicle sticks, to build their levee. They tested their design under normal conditions by slowly pouring in water and then assessed its durability in hurricane conditions with the faucet turned on all the way. If any pretend money remained, groups were allowed to modify their designs.

Students observed how materials like sand eroded and how levees could be pushed to their limits when faced with excessive water. This experience provided valuable insights into the real-world challenges of flood prevention and levee maintenance.