Time Schedule:
Michael K. Liquori
F E 425
Seattle Campus
Introduction to the hydrologic cycle and basic hydrologic methods as applied to wildlands. Effects of forest management activities on hydrologic processes. Offered: W.
Class Description
Course Objectives: This hands-on, interactive course is designed to help students understand the fundamental relationships associated with the hydrologic cycle in wildland environments. We will discuss the effects of land-use management in altering hydrologic systems, and how such alterations directly and indirectly influence ecosystem processes.
Course Topics include: * Hydrologic Cycle * Precipitation & Interception Processes * Evapotranspiration Processes & Measurements * Water behavior in soils * Hillslope Hydrology & Runoff Processes * Stream Discharge and Flow * Flood Frequency Analysis * Erosion & Transport of Sediments * Introduction to Water Quality Issues * Basic Stream Ecology
Specific skills will include: * Unit conversion and basic math skills as applied to hydrology problems * Basic hydrologic field measurements * Basic groundwater principles, including soil moisture, saturation, flow * Hydrograph manipulation, data management * Water Budgets, stage-discharge relationships, runoff estimations * Introductory stream ecology, land-use impacts
Course consists of two lecture periods and a lab period. The lab period may include lectures, labs and field exercises. Assignments will facilitate deeper understanding in students by working with hydrologic data and concepts. Homework and lab exercises are designed to convey specific skills and concepts. A course project will support students in developing analysis skills. One Midterm and one Final exam will allow the student to demonstrate comprehension and express synthesis concepts. Homework, labs and exams will be self-graded, and opportunities to correct errors will be provided. One or two Saturday field trips will also occur during the course.
Recommended preparation
Math skill requires basic algebra and simple trigonometry. Exposure to other natural science courses will be helpful, but not necessary (e.g. geology, fisheries, forestry, etc.). Basic science and writting skills are also helpful.
Class Assignments and Grading
Weekly exercises include some combination of homework, lab work, and field exercises. Course project will give students the opportunity to write a complete scientific report as part of a team. One in-class mid-term and a take-home final will both be self-graded.
