HWM-32806 Catchment Hydrology

Course

Credits 6.00

Language of instruction:

English

Assumed knowledge on:

SLM-20806 Water Quantity and Quality; HWM-20806 Hydrogeology; MAT-23306 Multivariate Mathematics Applied.

Contents:

This course on hydrological processes deals with advanced topics in hydrological processes in catchments at various scales, such as processes and estimation methods for stream flow generation and groundwater (floods and drought development), deterministic and stochastic modelling approaches. The deterministic part deals with precipitation-runoff relationships using physical-mathematical and conceptual models (physically based approaches and reservoir models); examples of flood forecasting and hydrological drought analysis techniques (incl. drought propagation); determination of flow generating processes (quick flow, base flow, influence of groundwater system properties on discharge); determination of the effects of global change on stream flow generation and drought development. The stochastic part deals with black box models (in particular regression models).
The course includes a field trip to Iceland. Hydrological processes will be shown for different conditions (climate, physical catchment structure). Impacts of floods and drought will be elaborated.

Learning outcomes:

After successful completion of this course students are expected to be able to:
- analyse field observations to conceptualize hydro(geo)logically and climatologically complex catchments;
- analyse hydrological systems (processes and medium) of catchments in various climatological and hydrogeological settings;
- evaluate precipitation-runoff relationships at various temporal and spatial scales;
- apply several conceptual models using historical data from a number of European catchments, incl. a detailed interpretation of model simulation results and inter-comparison of models;
- assess outcomes from these models to explore catchment management options, incl. prediction of hydrological extremes (floods and droughts) and assessing effects of global change;
- construct models of stochastic and deterministic nature.

Activities:

- attending lectures;
- studying course material (lecture notes, reader, papers):
- computer assignments and exercises;
- writing short synthesis report;
- active participation in the field trip abroad abroad (including presentation).

Examination:

- written exam on all course elements, incl. a multiple-choice exam on the field trip;
- evaluation of assignments.

Literature:

Lecture notes, Reader (incl. scientific papers).
Practical Manual and Field Trip Guide.