Research Areas of Interest
Water Research refers to the scientific study and analysis of water resources, including their availability, quality, management, and environmental impacts. This interdisciplinary field encompasses a wide range of topics aimed at understanding the complex interactions between water and various environmental, economic, and social factors.
CWR has five primary research thrusts and is positioning to capitalize on new emerging areas.
Hydrology
The study of the distribution, movement, and properties of water in the Earth's atmosphere and on its surface, including rivers, lakes, and groundwater systems.
Cold Region Hydrology Modeling
- Blowing Snow Transport
- Snow Accumulation
- Sublimation
- Snowmelt Runoff
- Soil Infiltration
- Fill and spill hydrology
Groundwater Modeling
- Aquifer Recharge Modeling
- Groundwater pollution monitoring/modeling
Monitoring
- Stream Gauge Installation and Monitoring
- Surface and groundwater data collections
- High Resolution Snow Characteristics Data collection (Snow Water Equivalent, Depth, and Density)
Water Quality
Assessing the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of water bodies to monitor pollution levels, determine public health risks, and propose treatment methods.
- Water Quality Assessments
- Identify Nutrient hotspots
- Biogeochemistry Modeling
Climate Change
Evaluating the effects of climate change on water supply, quality, and distribution, as well as developing adaptive strategies for water management.
Environmental Remote Sensing
The science of obtaining information about the Earth's surface and atmosphere from a distance, allowing data collection and analysis of various environmental conditions.
- Monitoring Land Use and Land Cover
- Detection Environmental Change
- Natural Resource Management
STEM Education
To provide students with a robust understanding of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics while assisting students to develop critical thinking and problem solving skills.