Articles tagged with Water Management
The Urban Water Innovation Network will develop technological, institutional, and management solutions to enhance urban water resilience. The network, led by Colorado State University, aims to create an enduring research network for integrated water systems and sustainable cities.
A new study by the U.S. Geological Survey and Florida Atlantic University reveals that past water conditions and availability are crucial factors affecting wading bird populations in the Everglades. The research found a 'lag effect' where wet conditions can take several years to impact bird numbers.
A new model predicts coronal mass ejections with 24-hour advance warning, while satellite altimetry helps optimize reservoir releases in real-time. This enables more efficient water management on data-limited rivers around the world.
Researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev are developing a new urban water program, focusing on water-sensitive cities and innovative technologies to deliver water security. The program aims to improve urban climates, reduce carbon footprints and enhance quality of life.
Rome was a 'smart city' due to its minimal alteration of natural features and resource management. In contrast, Naples faced more geological hazards and limited resources, constraining its growth. Over time, both cities became unstable due to rapid urban expansion and increased natural disasters
The FluEgg model examines complex dependencies between flow, temperature, and egg development to predict the likelihood of Asian carp reproduction in the St. Joseph River. The model highlights the importance of a fine balance between egg development and variable flow conditions.
A USGS study reveals how plants' vulnerability to drought varies across landscapes, with factors like plant structure and soil type influencing their response. The model helps forecast the future state of drylands by understanding how climate change affects water availability and use.
A new study by international researchers highlights China's booming economy is exacerbating water stress for poorer regions through virtual water transfers. The efforts only partially alleviate water stress and are likely to be insufficient to offset increased demand due to economic growth.
Every day, 2,000 hectares of irrigated land in arid regions are degraded by salt, affecting 20% of the world's irrigated lands. The study estimates global economic losses at $27.3 billion per year due to salt-induced land degradation.
Experts from the University of Exeter are developing a computer platform to simulate how existing and prospective new water systems will cope with issues such as land management and flooding in a virtual environment. The Nexus Game, a Serious Gaming approach, will focus on the unique interplay of infrastructure and the Nexus in the UK.
A new study by the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill found that when local communities collect fees for repairs and train members to fix wells, they can remain functional for decades. The World Vision model has been implemented in Ghana and resulted in nearly 80% of wells remaining operational after over two decades.
Interdependent networks, such as energy production systems, are more vulnerable to cascading failures due to one-directional connections. The study found that redundancy in connections can impact robustness, with less reliable systems operating near critical thresholds.
Researchers developed a method to accurately measure groundwater levels using satellite data, overcoming the challenges of traditional monitoring wells. This breakthrough provides valuable data for managing water resources and will improve models for scenarios like population growth and droughts.
Significant portions of the Ogalalla Aquifer are at risk of drying up due to excessive drainage. Michigan State University scientists propose policy solutions, including federal crop insurance changes and wholesale precision agriculture strategies, to avert water crisis.
Researchers at the University of Miami used satellite images to confirm the impact of saltwater intrusion on freshwater plants in the Everglades. The study found large patches of vegetation loss closer to the coast, while interior areas showed growth trends.
The 'Center for Advanced Water Research' will address global problems concerning integrated water resources management jointly. With the foundation of the CAWR, partners aim to overcome the challenges in the water sector using integrated approaches.
Agriculture faces increasing competition for water, but integrated water management plans can increase water security by utilizing blue, green, and gray waters. The symposium highlights the importance of protecting these three water sources to meet the world's growing demand for food.
The new journal publishes its first issue themed on 'Water Footprint Assessment (WFA) for better water governance and sustainable development'. Elsevier aims to bridge the gap between industrial water use practice and scientific research.
Researchers use satellite data to identify 'hotspots' of water scarcity in the US, warning of potential food supply risks due to groundwater depletion. The study highlights the need for a comprehensive national water policy to address these emerging issues.
Researchers used PIV system to measure flow field around Heteroxenia coral, finding polyp motion effectively sweeps water away from coral tissues. The accumulated effect of uncoordinated polyp activity enhances flow around colony, reducing re-filtration and improving nutrient exchange.
The Global Institute for Water Security at the University of Saskatchewan is generating science to address water security challenges in North America. Howard Wheater's research focuses on large-scale water monitoring and modelling to support better forecasting and prediction models for land and water systems.
Researchers have discovered that ancient Petra was extensively farmed on terraces, with wheat, grapes, and olives being cultivated. The complex systems of dam construction and water management were crucial to the region's agricultural success.
A team led by Assistant Professor Noah Molotch will identify thresholds of change in land use, forest management, and climate that may compromise the sustainability of trans-basin water diversions. The project aims to provide projections on future water supply and demand changes due to climate change.
North Carolina State University is leading a four-year research project to assess freshwater sustainability across the southern United States. The study will analyze historical hydroecological observations and population projections to determine how sustainable water resources will be over the next 10 to 30 years.
A new UC Santa Barbara-based project will investigate contaminants in urban water environments, focusing on identifying threats to surface waters and groundwater. The research aims to determine how to mitigate these issues and develop cost-effective solutions.
A new study reveals that groundwater in the upper Patapsco aquifer underlying Maryland is tens to hundreds of thousands of years old, with some samples dating back over a million years. This ancient water was recharged during cooler periods in earth's history and is now being rapidly pumped out by human activity.
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that immediate induction of labor does not significantly improve pregnancy outcomes for women with preterm prelabor rupture of membranes. Instead, expectant management is recommended to reduce the risk of maternal infection and neonatal sepsis.
Global knowledge brokers convene to address challenges of sharing knowledge with policy makers, international donors, and practitioners. The event aims to create a legacy document capturing ideas on reducing the gulf between knowledge and action.
The Thermal Infrared Sensor (TIRS) on the next Landsat satellite will detect Earth's temperature using quantum physics-based detector arrays. This technology enables accurate measurements of land and water usage, vital for managing Western US water consumption.
The new survey emphasizes the need for an integrated, multi-sectorial approach to address climate change's impact on India's water resources. It identifies key recommendations for policymakers, including developing 'low regret' policies and improving water databases.
Experts recommend accounting for water scarcity and pollution in international trade rules to mitigate its impact. The UNESCO-IHE Institute's special report aims to integrate water management into global trade agreements, considering new concepts like virtual water and water footprint.
A new study from North Carolina State University reveals that groundwater levels are influenced by precipitation three months earlier. The research provides unprecedented detail on how climate affects surface water and streamflow in the region, enabling better planning and policy decisions to mitigate water shortages.
The Thermal Infrared Sensor (TIRS) has successfully completed its first round of thermal vacuum testing at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. The test evaluated the fully-assembled instrument at its normal operating temperature, achieving results that surpass expectations in some areas.
A comprehensive study of Asia, Africa, and Latin America's major river basins finds that sufficient water exists to sustainably increase food production. Research suggests focusing on efficient use and rain-fed agriculture can generate two to three times more food.
A study by UC Davis scientists predicts that warming streams will be fatal to spring-run Chinook salmon in California unless water management strategies are implemented. Reducing hydropower diversions during warmest times could preserve salmon populations for a few decades.
A national database called WATERiD will provide accurate predictions of when underground water and wastewater pipes might fail. The database, launched on Sept. 1, aims to create a single point for utilities to access relevant information and accelerate decision-making.
The RainGain project aims to provide detailed precipitation and flooding data on an urban scale. TU Delft will utilize rain radar technology to measure local precipitation patterns in Rotterdam and other partner cities, enabling more effective urban water management and flood protection strategies.
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.
The US nursery and greenhouse industry has launched an online knowledge center to promote sustainable practices, providing resources and tools for growers and students. The Green Industry Knowledge Center offers in-depth learning modules on water and nutrient management, irrigation, and substrate handling.
Watersheds are living systems essential for healthy communities, according to Canada Research Chair Margot Parkes. She advocates for an integrated approach to water management that involves communities, governments, and researchers working together.
A study by the University of Zaragoza found that Spain's precipitation has declined overall between March and June, reducing the length of the rainy season. The rains are heavier in October in the north west of the country.
The University of Oklahoma is establishing an Institute for Water and Sustainability, including the Oklahoma Water Survey, to benefit Oklahoma and the nation. The institute will provide research and data for informed decision-making regarding water conservation and use.
A new study suggests that a 60-year drought like the one in the 12th Century could occur in the Southwest, with devastating impacts on ecosystems and water systems. The team analyzed past temperatures and droughts to identify plausible worst-case scenarios, highlighting the need for improved water management planning.
Research published in PNAS reveals that windborne dust on high peaks in the Colorado River Basin reduces snow cover duration and increases runoff, leading to a 5% annual loss of water. This decrease in runoff affects water management, as peak flows occur earlier and are more compressed.
Sharon Walker, a US engineer, partnered with Ben-Gurion University in Israel to develop innovative approaches to water management. The collaboration aims to enhance global competency of graduate students and faculty through research and education.
NASA engineers have completed a critical design review of the Thermal Infrared Sensor (TIRS) instrument, which will help monitor water consumption in the U.S. West. TIRS will extend the Landsat database in the thermal infrared bands needed by various users, providing high-sensitivity cryogenically cooled detector arrays.
The world's waters are facing increasing pressure due to population growth, urbanization, and pollution, threatening food production and water resources. The Mekong River Basin is a prime example of water-related conflicts escalating over access to hydropower production and its impact on local livelihoods.
Researchers at Arizona State University and Indiana University found that communication improves joint outcomes when managing common-pool resources. In experiments with costly fines, participants improved their harvest output greatly when given a chance to communicate.
Dr. David Molden, winner of the CGIAR award for Outstanding Scientist of the Year, states that agriculture is both the cause and solution to many world water problems. The Comprehensive Assessment of Water Management in Agriculture highlights the potential to grow more food with limited water, particularly in areas of high poverty.
A Special Issue of Agricultural Water Management highlights the need for investments in agriculture to improve food security and address global hunger. Investments in irrigation and rainfed agriculture are crucial to increase food production and household incomes in developing countries.
A new MMS study examines the Loop Current and its effects on the Eastern Gulf of Mexico, revealing a connection between upper- and lower-layer currents and water mass characteristics. The research provides valuable insights for improving forecasting and predicting the impact of the Loop Current on oil and gas operations.
The world will need a 'Blue Revolution' to address the massive pressure on its water resources due to population growth, changing diets, and climate change. Investments in water can reduce poverty and improve agricultural productivity by refurbishing irrigation systems and promoting rainfed agriculture.
The region may need to import over a quarter of its rice, wheat and maize if current irrigation management is not improved or innovated. A new study warns that Asia's vast irrigation systems must be revitalized to meet the growing food demand without further straining water resources.
The NOAA-led Hydropalooza project is mapping the seafloor and coastline of Kachemak Bay, providing detailed data for safe navigation and ecosystem management. The data will be used to support local planning, maritime commerce, and recreational boating in the area.
A UNH researcher received a Presidential Environmental Award for his work on the South Coast Habitat Restoration Project, which restored ecologically important eelgrass meadows to tidal ponds in Rhode Island. The project utilized a site selection model developed by the researcher, identifying locations most favorable to eelgrass growth.
A new tool developed at Purdue University helps sort out how to choose the best non-point source pollution control strategies for water resources. By analyzing data from an area, it can compute the most cost-effective solutions in just a few hours.
Researchers from Swedish and German scientists found that better water management can significantly reduce future food crises by leveraging both green and blue water. This approach can lift billions out of water poverty and provide a new green revolution in poor countries, even if they face blue water scarcity.
A series of symposium papers explore AquaCrop and other agronomic models that estimate water use efficiency under varying conditions. The models were shown to adequately simulate WUE under well-watered conditions but tend to overestimate or underestimate WUE under water stress, limiting their usefulness for deficit irrigation scenarios.
A RAND Corporation study found that U.S. Army units can gain tactical and strategic advantages by better managing environmental issues during deployments, which can influence local support for the mission and overall success. The study recommends giving more weight to environmental considerations in planning and operations.
Researchers found water bears can withstand extreme dehydration and cosmic radiation in space, but are harmed by ultraviolet radiation. Ingemar Jönsson's team discovered that water bears can repair DNA damage after exposure to space conditions.