This unit brings together the knowledge of the relevant surface and subsurface processes that influence the global hydrological cycle. The unit integrates hydrological and ecological knowledge at large scales (aquifers and basins and catchments) to smaller scales (individual rivers, wetlands and springs). The unit will focus on surface water processes, including runoff generation, streamflow and baseflow. Additionally, groundwater flows and how to quantify them for groundwater processes will be investigated. Importantly, the unit will consider the complex interactions between surface water and groundwater systems and the wide range of ecosystem services that surface water and groundwater systems support.
Theoretical understanding will be linked with practical experiences focusing on the wetlands and rivers of Australia's wet/dry tropics. At the end of the unit, students will be able to explain key hydrological concepts and perform hydrological analyses that relate to surface water, groundwater, and potential ecological implications of human interactions with these systems.
