We study ecohydrology in arid areas, focusing on soil moisture, plant evapotranspiration, and water redistribution to improve watershed management.
Ecohydrology, the study of interactions between water and ecological systems, is key to sound watershed management, and it is especially critical in arid areas such as Arizona, where water is limited. In addition to traditional research focused on streamflow and groundwater, our faculty also conduct novel research that looks beyond traditional water sources, focusing on soil moisture and plant evapotranspiration. Their research also digs into water and nutrient redistribution via runoff and run-on, how riparian trees influence streamflow, and the microclimate effects of vegetation, often in the context of and concern for climate change. Decision-makers apply their research to solve challenges related to managing our scarce water resources, as well as other natural resources.
