Rick Bahlinger Published Novel on Louisiana Ecology
LSU graduate Rick Bahlinger released a debut novel exploring the potential failure of the Old River Control Structure.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Environmental
Live Poll
Do you feel informed about the potential environmental risks posed by infrastructure in your area?
Author and LSU alumnus Rick Bahlinger has published his debut novel, Mother Nature Hates To Lose. The book focuses on the ecological risks associated with the Old River Control Structure in eastern central Louisiana.
Why it matters
The novel aims to highlight the grave ecological dangers that would arise if the Old River Control Structure failed to prevent the Mississippi River from changing its course. This infrastructure remains critical to the region's geography and environmental stability.
The Old River Control Structure was tested by a near-failure in 1973 that threatened the stability of the Mississippi River. The site in Concordia Parish remains a focal point for understanding regional flood risk.
The players
Rick Bahlinger
He is an LSU alumnus and industrial engineering graduate who authored the novel Mother Nature Hates To Lose.
Louise Harris
She served as the ghostwriter for the novel authored by Rick Bahlinger.
The details
Rick Bahlinger, who earned an industrial engineering degree from LSU in 1975, co-wrote the novel with ghostwriter Louise Harris. The fictional narrative incorporates research on the Louisiana canal system alongside plot lines involving politicians and drug cartels.
Timeline
The Old River Control Structure nearly failed in 1973.
Rick Bahlinger graduated from LSU with an industrial engineering degree in 1975.
The novel was published in October 2026.
Deeper Dive
The story follows a pattern set by the Old River Control Structure, as it examines the societal and environmental consequences of this massive engineering feat.
Readers may gain a greater understanding of the complex infrastructure that maintains the state's geography. The novel highlights the ongoing need for public engagement regarding the maintenance of large-scale water control systems.
The takeaway
The book serves as a reminder of the fragility of man-made structures in the face of natural hydrological forces. Residents and policymakers alike are encouraged to consider the long-term ecological implications of infrastructure resilience.
Further reading
For more information on the regional impact of such projects, see Environmental.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Reveille.
Live Poll
Do you feel informed about the potential environmental risks posed by infrastructure in your area?
