Researchers from UT Austin are part of a $3 million NSF Delta research collaboration to build comprehensive computer models for predicting river delta evolution. The project aims to understand how deltas respond to human activities and learn to direct delta evolution.
A species of Culex modestus, known to transmit West Nile virus in Europe, has been found breeding in the UK's marshes after a 60-year absence. The discovery highlights the need to investigate mosquito-borne risks to human health and informs efforts to track the mosquitoes' spread.
A new study shows that the arrival of the Harlequin ladybird has led to a rapid decline in historically-widespread species of ladybird in Britain, Belgium, and Switzerland. The research found that five out of eight studied species declined substantially since the Harlequin's arrival.
Researchers develop computer model to describe forces maintaining mangrove-hammock boundary, indicating large salt pulses may cause mangroves to invade hardwood hammocks. The model predicts changes in vegetation and freshwater supply due to storm surges and sea level rise.
Researchers used long-term data from Coweeta Hydrological Laboratory to examine the feasibility of managing forests for water supply. The analysis revealed significant increases in temperature and extreme wet and dry years, with conversion from hardwoods to pines decreasing streamflow.
A team of scientists at the US Department of Agriculture has patented a method to convert commercial digital cameras into color infrared cameras for aerial photography. This technology allows for immediate image availability without further processing, making it ideal for detecting farmland extent and crop health. The innovation enable...
The Finnish Meteorological Institute leads two major European projects, O3M SAF and SAF on Support to Operational Hydrology and Water Management. The institute develops software and systems for processing satellite data, including products for ozone, nitrogen oxides, sulphur dioxide, and aerosols. These products support climate change ...
A recent study highlights the importance of considering water usage in bioenergy crop production, particularly with large grasses like miscanthus or switchgrass. The research found that these crops can increase net water use due to higher transpiration rates and land conversion's impact on hydrology.
Researchers found that large-scale land conversion to bioenergy crops increases water use, reducing soil moisture and runoff but increasing atmospheric humidity. The study's results highlight the need to consider water demands in decision-making for energy production through bioenergy crops.
A new study reveals that enhanced tree growth in tropical forests can stimulate soil micro-organisms, leading to the release of stored soil carbon. Researchers found that extra litterfall triggers a process called priming, which stimulates the decomposition of carbon stored in the soil.
The Urban Water ERC aims to develop new, sustainable ways to manage urban water. Researchers will work in close partnership with industry to address the critical importance of this issue.
A new study by UC Merced professor Anthony Westerling predicts a significant increase in large wildfires in Yellowstone by 2050, leading to changes in forest composition and wildlife habitats. The projected increase could result in fewer dense forests and more open vegetation, with some forests failing to regenerate after repeated fires.
A new study projects that Yellowstone National Park will experience dramatic shifts in forest vegetation and fire patterns, with large fires occurring annually by 2050. The research suggests that a warming climate could lead to a fundamental change in the ecosystem, affecting wildlife, hydrology, carbon storage, and aesthetics.
Researchers discovered herbicide volatilization consistently results in losses exceeding those from surface runoff, with a significant impact on groundwater contamination. The study highlights the importance of considering soil moisture levels and air temperatures in models of pesticide volatilization.
In June 2010, Berkeley Lab scientists quickly developed a simplified conceptual model and a coupled numerical model to estimate oil flow from the damaged wellhead. Their simulations predicted an oil flow rate of 60,000 to 100,000 barrels per day, which was later confirmed by a final estimate in August 2010.
A new themed issue of Geosphere delves into the geology and tectonic history of northern San Francisco Bay region, featuring studies on sedimentary and volcanic deposits cut by active strike-slip faults. The papers provide insights into groundwater hydrology, seismic hazard, and plate margin evolution.
Researchers developed an economical method to detect groundwater in semi-arid hard rock areas by analyzing electrical conductivity logs. The approach revealed differences in subterranean rock fissures and correlated with regions of underground water. This technique may be useful for identifying the most abundant sources of groundwater.
A new study on Northumberland's Chillingham cattle reveals climate change is altering the timing of their breeding schedules, leading to more winter births and lower calf survival rates. The long-term dataset, dating back to 1860, provides valuable insights into how mammals respond to global warming.
A new study using satellite observations and high-resolution images found that brief changes in soil moisture can affect storm generation in the Sahel region of West Africa. This could lead to improved predictive modeling for crops, which are crucial for the people affected by droughts in the area.
Researchers from Columbia University found that evaporation from the land surface can modify the frequency of summertime rainfall, but not its quantity. This discovery is crucial for understanding prolongation of hydrological extremes like floods and droughts.
Gina Hodges, a University of Oklahoma graduate student, has been awarded $30,000 annually for three years to research flash flood prediction using next-generation radar observations and stormscale rainfall forecasts. Her goal is to improve current methods to protect public lives and property.
Physicists at NIST have demonstrated a super-stable laser operating in a minivan, showing its potential for field use in geodesy, hydrology and space-based physics experiments. The laser was tested with the vehicle stationary and moving at speeds of less than 1 meter per second, remaining stable enough for some applications.
Scientists investigate how a virus affecting the Indian meal moth impacts its host populations in size, with potential to inform better pest management strategies. The research could lead to improved techniques for controlling invasive species and pests.
A comprehensive study of British soil biodiversity has been conducted, mapping bacterial distributions for the first time. The research found that acidic soils are dominated by few taxa, while bacterial diversity is strongly related to soil pH.
A European study finds that over 60% of key wildlife sites receive excessive aerial nitrogen pollution, threatening biodiversity. Concerted action is needed to address the issue and link conservation, air pollution, and agricultural policies.
A major new study reveals that nitrogen pollution is costing Europe around £60-£280 billion annually, more than double the income gained from using nitrogen fertilizers. The report also identifies key threats, including toxic algal blooms, air pollution, and loss of plant diversity.
A study finds that widespread discharge of inefficiently treated wastewater into rivers could occur if existing plans for antiviral and antibiotic use are implemented during a pandemic. This could lead to water quality deterioration at drinking water abstraction points, potentially causing eutrophication and environmental toxicity.
A Kansas State University scientist is investigating the reaction and transport of tungsten in drinking water, a contaminant linked to childhood leukemia cases. The study aims to understand tungsten's biogeochemistry in the environment, which is essential for addressing potential health risks.
A new study found that kittiwake's summer breeding performance affects their winter distribution, with failed breeders migrating over 3000km to Canada. Successful breeders remained closer to Britain.
A CCNY-led interdisciplinary team recreated colonial hydrology by synthesizing historical records with present-day data. The study identifies broad hydrologic trends for the northeastern US between 1600 and 1800, highlighting the impact of human factors on waterways.
Tim Dixon received the 2010 George P. Woollard Award for his groundbreaking research in space geodesy, which has paved the way for studying earthquake hazard, volcanic processes, and climate change. His work has also contributed to understanding subsidence in Mexico City and the melting of the Greenland ice cap.
A team of scientists reconstructed colonial US hydrology by integrating modern data with historical records, highlighting human activities' role in shaping watersheds. The study provides new insights into past water residence times and biogeochemistry, shedding light on diseases transmission.
A new study reconstructs America's colonial hydrology, revealing the integral role of water resources in shaping human settlement patterns. By integrating modern scientific data with historical records, researchers have gained insights into the evolution of watersheds and ecosystems.
The Himalayan region's glaciers are retreating, but the impacts of climate change will still be felt, with programs integrating health, education, and social organizations needed to address these effects. The report highlights the need for international collaboration to gather more information on glacier ice balance.
The University of California, Davis is part of a consortium co-hosting the new Southwest Climate Science Center. Researchers say signs of climate change are prevalent in the region, including rising temperatures, earlier snowmelt, and increasing precipitation intensity.
Researchers will analyze climate change and human-driven changes in hydrology's effects on agricultural production and land use in Asia. The study aims to estimate how climate change affects downstream water resources and food production.
A multidisciplinary team of researchers at Michigan State University is developing a sustainability plan for the Ogallala Aquifer, which stores nearly as much water as Lake Erie and Lake Huron combined. The plan aims to address economic and sociological issues affecting the aquifer's management, ensuring sustainable water-use practices...
Research reveals a causal relationship between rainfall and earthquakes, with variations in rainfall affecting pore-fluid pressure at depth and triggering earthquakes. Ground motion patterns in the Santa Clara Valley are also studied, revealing complex geological structures that influence seismic wave propagation and amplification.
A new NASA study shows that increased dust in the Colorado River basin is causing snowmelt to occur earlier, reducing runoff and available water downstream. This results in a 35-billion cubic feet annual loss of water, enough to supply Los Angeles for 18 months.
A new NASA-funded study reveals that increased desert dust caused by human activities is cutting Colorado River flow, resulting in reduced water availability. The study shows peak spring runoff now comes three weeks earlier than before, with annual runoff lower by more than 5 percent.
Research reveals that farm management choices significantly influence arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi distribution, with organic farming showing higher AMF richness. This understanding can improve crop production and promote sustainable agricultural practices to address food security and climate change challenges.
Scientists studied Scots Pine genes to discover they still harbor genetic variation from their continental ancestors, which could aid future populations' adaptation and survival under changing climate conditions. The research found Scottish pine tree populations are genetically diverse enough to cope with future change.
Scientists mapped termite mounds to understand vegetation patterns and geology, revealing how changes in rainfall affect the landscape. The research uses termite mounds as indicators of ecological shifts from climate change.
A comprehensive CEAP study reveals troublesome nitrogen and copper levels in a major Chesapeake Bay tributary, primarily sourced from agricultural fertilizers. High copper concentrations were found at lower reaches of the river, posing a threat to aquatic life.
Researchers have developed new maps of the Chesapeake Bay's forested wetlands, increasing accuracy by 30% compared to existing maps. The combined data from LiDAR and SAR sensors reveals previously unknown connections between wetlands, drainage ditches, and ponds.
A study by Carnegie Institution scientists reveals that radiation drives stomatal response, rather than just humidity. This breakthrough has significant implications for weather forecasting, climate change research, and agriculture.
A new study by Brigham Young University researchers indicates that an ancient aquifer under the Nevada Test Site is feeding an oasis near Ash Meadows, a site home to unique plant and animal species. The water's journey takes 15,000 years to reach its destination, with radioactive water potentially surfacing in the future.
Researchers at OU WaTER Center address global water dilemmas with focus on climate change, treatment and cleanup methods. The Center's work has impact in four areas: teaching, research, service, and international leadership.
This interdisciplinary study explores the role of the Bering Glacier system in the northeast Pacific Ocean and global sea level. The book includes contributions from researchers on various disciplines, including glaciology, geology, and ecology.
The new field guide highlights complex interconnections between geologic features, including karstification and hydrology, in the Ozark region. It also examines connections to culture, history, and economic development of the area.
A new special issue of Oceanography presents groundbreaking research on seamounts, highlighting the importance of these underwater mountains for marine life and global ocean health. The study reveals devastating impacts from overfishing and habitat destruction, emphasizing the need for sustainable management practices.
A study published in Global Change Biology found that the seasonal timing of biological events has become earlier by more than 11 days in the UK since 1976. This acceleration is most rapid for organisms at the bottom of food chains, such as plants and insects.
A new study by UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology and colleagues found that diverse landscapes with varying habitats help maintain stable butterfly populations. This can aid conservation efforts, as stable populations are better equipped to withstand extreme weather conditions.
A QUT team is studying how iron from soil reaches water to potentially cause algal blooms. Researchers are investigating the role of bacteria and chemical reactions in making iron soluble.
Researchers developed a new technique to manage dams in the Columbia River basin for a warmer future climate. The approach reduced summer losses in hydropower due to climate change by about a quarter, while bolstering flows for fish and minimizing flooding.
Researchers discovered that soil clings to precipitation after a dry summer and holds it tightly, preventing it from mixing with other water. This challenges conventional thinking on watershed function and has implications for understanding pollutant movement and nutrient transport.
A recent increase in winter mortality among Atlantic puffins could be attributed to worsening North Sea conditions, according to a new study. Geolocation technology tracked puffins from the Isle of May National Nature Reserve, revealing that some birds make long trips into the Atlantic during winter.
Researchers from four universities and the U.S. Forest Service found that glaciers along the Gulf of Alaska are a significant source of organic carbon, with up to 4,000-year-old material being flushed out with glacier melt. This ancient carbon is enriching stream and near-shore marine ecosystems.
Scientists have developed a way to modify nanoparticles in sewage treatment plants, potentially closing off the gateway for environmental spread. Uncoated nanoparticles remain in effluent streams, while coated ones aggregate into solid residue.
A three-year study of six large Arctic river ecosystems reveals predictable temporal patterns among bacterial communities, suggesting they could be used to monitor climate change. The findings show that these communities shift synchronously over time, correlating with seasonal shifts in hydrology and biogeochemistry.