Water Resources Sustainable Use and Conservation Policy and Practice

Catalog description

This course investigates water resources science and resource management from the perspective of its value to human society and sustainability. Water has unique properties that make it essential for sustaining all life on Earth, which gives this natural resource a major historic and future role in development of society. The hydrologic cycle is explored as it exists from high above the Earth’s surface to miles beneath it. The geology of water’s availability to human society is explored, as well as the role of surface water and aquifers in shaping landscapes and human inhabitation. Students explore the influence of climate on water, distribution, and availability of safe drinking water, and pollution of water in the past and current social and economic context of civilization through history. Water issues will be discussed in the context of meeting current and future needs of society. Where possible, examples relevant to Texas will be emphasized.