The Geological Society of America's annual meeting, GSA Connects Online 2020, features 3,000 papers from 38 geoscience disciplines. The event showcases cutting-edge research in climate science, hydrology, paleontology, and more.
A new method combines Deep-Learning, hydrological models and Earth observations to quantify small as well as large-scale changes to the water storage on the South American continent. The study shows that the method is particularly reliable for tropical regions, where rain forests and vast surface waters are located.
A new study by the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology found that land surface conditions can affect mesoscale convective systems, allowing for more accurate forecasts and up to six hours' warning. This will inform alert systems for communities across Africa, enabling them to better prepare for severe flooding.
Using local producer knowledge helps estimate groundwater use in modelling for mapping sustainable use of scarce resources. Farmers' land use, agricultural practices and water use are key factors in this approach.
Scientists have developed a new method to measure rainfall in Germany using commercial microwave links, achieving high accuracy and temporal resolution. The technique involves analyzing signal attenuation caused by precipitation, with the help of artificial intelligence, and has been successfully tested for application in West Africa.
A global meta-analysis led by UNSW scientists found that biocrusts reduce water erosion by an average of 68% and increase water storage in upper layers, supporting the world's shrinking water supplies. Biocrusts are critical for fixing nitrogen and carbon, stabilizing surface soils, and providing a home for soil organisms.
Researchers have found that the Lahontan Cutthroat Trout population at Summit Lake remains stable despite climatically induced drought, thanks to a blend of science-based research and tribal cultural practices. The team's study provides valuable insights into restoring other Nevada lakes with similar trout populations.
A recent study found that tree planting on heather moorland in Scotland did not increase carbon storage, but instead led to a decline in soil organic carbon stocks. The research suggests that planting trees may not be an effective strategy for mitigating climate change in certain areas.
A study by international researchers predicts that a 20-30% increase in invasive alien species will lead to massive global biodiversity loss. The spread of these species is driven primarily by human activities such as trade and climate change, highlighting the need for ambitious countermeasures.
New research shows road verges can provide vital food and shelter for bees, butterflies, and hoverflies. By mowing less, limiting street lighting, and reducing pollution, managers can create 'corridors' to aid pollinator conservation.
A new study by Cornell University and Washington State University found that climate change will force farmers to choose between lower yields and higher revenue volatility. The research team used a model to explore the impact of drought-tolerant crop varieties, which can improve average yields but also increase revenue fluctuations.
A major loss of grassland has occurred in Great Britain since 1990, with a net reduction of 7,668 km2 or 1.9 million acres, as woodland area increased by 5,236 km2 and urban areas expanded by 3,376 km2 between 1990 and 2015. The majority of this loss and increase occurred in Scotland and England respectively.
Researchers analyzed medieval and modern case studies to identify restrictive soil and geologic conditions for tunneling. They found arid areas with low permanent water tables are most susceptible to successful tunneling, recommending monitoring for sound and vibrations to disrupt smugglers.
Scientists in the UK are developing a standardized system for detecting coronavirus in wastewater, which could provide an early warning of future outbreaks. The system aims to reduce reliance on costly testing and help contain the spread of infection by identifying hotspots.
The UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology has developed the free Environmental Planner tool (E-Planner) to help farmers make informed decisions on agri-environment options. The tool assesses suitability of unproductive land for four interventions, including pollinator habitats and woodland creation.
A new study suggests that releasing non-essential workers in two stages is the most effective way to minimize deaths while protecting the economy. The researchers recommend gradually releasing half of the population 2-4 weeks after an initial infection peak, followed by another 3-4 months before fully lifting restrictions.
Researchers at University of Alaska Fairbanks found that seismic surveys can cause long-lasting scars on the tundra, affecting its hydrology and habitat. The study emphasizes the need for more data on seismic exploration impacts and better weather records to minimize damage in the Arctic Refuge.
Researchers analyzed 23 years of data on native tallgrass prairie and crop-livestock systems in Oklahoma, finding that cropping systems increased nitrogen and phosphorus levels. The study highlights the importance of long-term research in understanding land management impacts on water quality.
New research reveals consistent patterns in permafrost soils across Alaska's North Slope, allowing scientists to predict how carbon and greenhouse gases are released. The findings will help improve climate models by providing direct permafrost soil information, filling a knowledge gap that has been around for 30 years.
Researchers develop a deep-learning model to estimate fine detail of fuel moisture levels across 12 western states, improving fire studies. The new dataset could help reveal areas at greatest risk and chart candidate locations for prescribed burns.
Scientists measured a significant reduction in CO2 emissions in London during the pandemic, with daily reductions mirroring decreases in traffic flow. The lockdown's impact on air quality and potential changes in behaviors post-lockdown are also being studied.
Researchers found that shrub encroachment on slopes can increase focused groundwater recharge, even under conditions of reduced rainfall due to climate change. This process counterbalances the expected decrease in annual rainfall amounts.
Researchers found that on days with little atmospheric moisture, afternoon rainfall is more likely over wetter soils, while on days with high moisture, it's more likely over drier soils. Warmer morning temperatures also contribute to the likelihood of afternoon rainfall.
A hydrological model has led to significant advancements in creating a world water map, utilizing public data and citizen science contributions. The model provides accurate predictions for river flow, with areas like the Eastern US, Europe, Japan, and Russia showing high potential for seasonal forecasts.
A new study warns of amphibian conservation shortfalls due to climate change, highlighting the need for intelligent manipulation and management of water resources. Researchers found that extending temporary pool availability, restoring natural drying patterns, and releasing environmental flows can improve breeding outcomes.
Scientists have found that liquid meltwater from Greenland's glaciers can flow deep below the ice sheet during winter, raising questions about sea-level rise and future climate change. This discovery highlights the need for year-round Arctic hydrological investigations to understand how meltwater moves through the ice sheet.
The Calusa kingdom relied primarily on fishing due to the watercourts, which were built around A.D. 1300 and served as short-term holding pens for fish before consumption or preservation. The structure's design required an understanding of daily and seasonal tides, hydrology, and the biology of various fish species.
The UK Water Resources Portal brings together up-to-date data on river flows, rainfall, soil moisture and groundwater levels, providing insights into floods and droughts. The portal also offers historical records for comparison with previous significant events.
A new satellite-based algorithm, BESS-STAIR, has achieved unprecedented accuracy in estimating crop water use in the US Corn Belt. The framework combines plant's carbon-water-energy cycles to provide high-resolution data on a daily basis, offering real-time benefits for farmers
A new study reveals that dams in the upper Mekong River increase downstream nutrient bioavailability, contrary to the widespread assumption. The cascading effect of reservoirs increases hydraulic residence time and leads to a shift in phytoplankton species composition.
Scientists have developed a global system to predict future warming of lakes, which could threaten cold-water species like salmon and trout. By 2100, average lake temperature is expected to rise by 4 degrees Celsius under extreme climate change scenarios.
A new method helps scientists determine how vulnerable rivers are to drought conditions by analyzing streamflow data, identifying faster and slower components of runoff and their impact on river sensitivity.
A Montana State University research team, led by Lindsey Albertson and Geoffrey Poole, is exploring the impact of caddisfly larvae on stream ecosystems. The study aims to understand how caddisflies influence nutrient processing and microbial communities in streams.
Researchers develop new functional metrics to detect anthropic impacts in temporary rivers, surpassing traditional biological indicators. These metrics can be applied regardless of flow intermittence, providing precise environmental degradation detection.
The World Karst Spring hydrograph dataset (WoKaS) offers a comprehensive collection of over 400 karst spring discharge data, providing valuable insights into the world's fastest-flowing groundwater. This database supports trend analyses, impact studies, and model evaluations for sustainable water management.
Researchers found that seasonal pumped hydropower storage has considerable potential for highly competitive energy storage costs, with estimated global energy storage potential of 17.3 PWh. The study also addresses environmental concerns related to traditional hydropower plants, suggesting a more sustainable solution for renewable ener...
A comprehensive analysis of UK biodiversity over 45 years reveals concerning declines in terrestrial non-insect invertebrates, but strong recoveries in freshwater insects. Overall occupancy of invertebrates increased by 11%, with freshwater insects surpassing 1970 levels after a 47% decline.
The study reveals that even modest climate warming scenarios can lead to a significant loss of groundwater in the continental US, with the eastern region being more sensitive. As shallow groundwater storage is depleted, it can no longer buffer plant water stress, leading to dramatic changes in vegetation and surface waters.
Researchers at University of Arizona develop mathematical model to simulate PFAS migration through soil and groundwater. The majority of PFAS accumulate in the soil, where they migrate down slowly, posing a significant risk to human health.
A recent study found that 91% of stream samples contained artificial sweeteners, tracing 13% of septic wastewater to groundwater, underscoring the need for further testing to detect pathogens and pharmaceuticals
A review paper in Science highlights the challenge of assessing chemical risks to wildlife, citing the need for computer modelling and long-term ecological monitoring. The authors recommend a more consistent retrospective risk assessment approach to better understand the impacts of chemicals on wildlife populations.
A team of researchers from Binghamton University and Emerson College analyzed data from 14,000 years ago and found that Native Americans did not make large-scale changes to the environment. The study suggests that ancient native people thrived under changing forest conditions by adapting to them, rather than intensively managing the land.
Researchers used microeconomics and hydrology models to study the relationship between climate change and violent conflict. They found that human adaptation to changed conditions may decrease conflicts over coveted resources.
Researchers at the University of York found that non-native plants are supporting communities of British insects, including pollinators and beetles. The study suggests that a balance between native and non-native plants may provide the best home for most insects.
A new study suggests that investing in pollinator monitoring schemes can yield significant economic benefits, with potential savings of at least £1.50 for every £1 invested. The research, presented at the British Ecological Society's annual meeting, explores cost-effective methods for improving pollinator monitoring in the UK.
Researchers will study isolated wetlands in the Delmarva Peninsula to understand how hydrology influences wetland carbon export and emissions. The project aims to inform wetland management practices for conservation and restoration.
A mathematical model has been developed to predict how invasive species spread in rivers and how to control their movement using optimal water flow rates. The study, published in Mathematics, uses a partial differential equation model to illustrate how adjusting the water flow rate can prevent invasive populations from expanding upstream.
Researchers from Spain and Portugal have identified the careo irrigation channels of Sierra Nevada as the oldest underground aquifer recharge system in Europe. The study, published in Journal of Hydrology, reveals that this ancient technique was used to channel water for centuries, with evidence dating back to the 11th Century.
Researchers found that urbanization decreases 'flashiness' -- rise and fall rates of water flow in streams -- in arid urban watersheds. This is the opposite pattern observed in wetter regions like the East. The study suggests lessons for better stormwater management everywhere.
A study by the University of Barcelona finds sediment accumulation outpaces nitrate toxicity in harming river ecosystems. Researchers warn that habitat degradation due to deforestation and agricultural practices threatens Europe's Water Framework Directive goals.
A team of researchers created a model to predict induced earthquake activity from wastewater injection, accounting for various variables such as subsurface hydrology parameters and regional stress on faults. The model can help oil operators restrict injection control and prevent large earthquakes in Oklahoma.
A large group of ecologists contests an article proposing 'reforestation' of the Cerrado, Brazil's most biodiverse tropical savanna. The critics argue that the plan is based on flawed calculations and could worsen climate change by reducing surface albedo and intensifying global warming.
A team of researchers from the University of Delaware examined the age, origin, and sustainability of fossil aquifers in the Mega Aquifer System (MAS) in the Arabian Peninsula. They used a combination of geochemical analysis, satellite data, and field investigations to determine the quality and age of the water.
A new report by the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology reveals that Edinburgh is losing around 15 football pitches of green land each year. Urban creep and expansion are major contributors to this loss, with homeowners adding features like conservatories and driveways that harm vegetation.
Researchers evaluated the accuracy of a commonly used numerical model in hydrology, finding that its results can be difficult to interpret correctly even when properly calibrated. The study recommends using a combination model called SWATmf to improve representation of hydrologic systems.
A novel approach developed by Lehigh University researchers combines four steps: climatology, hydrology, structural engineering, and risk assessment to predict the impact of climate change on bridges. The model reveals that a 20-year flood may become a 13-year flood at the end of the century, nearly doubling the frequency of flooding.
A new study modelled the effects of antibiotic prescriptions on developing antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the River Thames. Reducing antibiotic use by 80% is necessary to avoid a surge in superbugs, which could pose a more immediate risk to humanity than climate change.
Cities with high rainfall can achieve cooler temperatures through targeted planting, while extremely dry regions benefit from increased wind circulation and shade. The study provides a preliminary classification of cities for urban heat island mitigation, highlighting the importance of regional climate characteristics.
Researchers developed a new method to measure pore structure and water flow in soil, providing more accurate estimates of contaminant movement. This approach has implications for efficient resource use and understanding environmental toxins.
Tropical Storm Podul is expected to make landfall on August 29 in central and north Vietnam. The storm is currently located about 108 nautical miles north of Da Nang, Vietnam, with maximum sustained winds of 35 knots.