However, once the water reaches the groundwater system, or if the flow of soil water is impeded causing lateral surface or subsurface flow, we need to treat the catchment as a three-dimensional system. We will apply the knowledge of process to explain seasonal and storm-event runoff generation. In the last quarter of the course we will look at some of the most pressing problems in water resources. There will be three take-home assignments. These assignments will be introduced in class and will include problems that illustrate a technique used in hydrological analysis.
Assignments are due on the date specified in the course schedule.
No assignments will be accepted for quantitative evaluation once any graded assignments are handed back. In the paper you are to outline the inputs, outputs, major stores and internal flows of water in the system you choose to analyse. Attempt to describe a general water balance for your selected catchment type and outline the main patterns of water loss on a seasonal and event basis. The main sources of information for your paper should come from primary literature i.e. journals, monographs, and conference proceedings. There will be a special in-class presentation on How to research for your essay on Jan. 25.