Bachelor Degree in
Ecohydrology

Ecohydrology is an emerging science defined by the interface between ecology and hydrologic sciences by focusing on the interactions between components of the hydrologic cycle and the distribution, structure, function, and dynamics of biological systems.

Ecohydrology is a new integrative science that involves finding solutions to issues surrounding water, people, and the environment. One of the fundamental concepts involved in ecohydrology is that the timing and availability of freshwater is intimately linked to ecosystem processes, and the goods and services provided by fresh waters to societies. This means that emphasis is placed on the hydrological cycle and its effects on ecological processes and human well-being.

Ecohydrology provides a way for policy-makers, governments (at all levels, from the local to the national), and civil society to work towards sustainable water resources management by enhancing the capacity of ecosystems to absorb adverse impacts. Concretely, this means that ecohydrology aims to reverse the degradation of ecosystem services by regulating hydrological and ecological processes at the same time.

• field investigations of water resources;
• analysis and synthesis of data;
• reporting, including writing and presentation; and
• analysis using models, including application of geographic information systems.

What kind of salary do ecohydrologist grads earn?
      In 2006, the median annual income nationwide for hydrologist was $66,620 (Bureau of Labor Statistics). That’s higher than environmental scientists(!)

Dr. Laurel Saito, Professor, Faculty Advisor
Phone: (775) 784-1921
e-mail: lsaito@cabnr.unr.edu
Office: 109 Knudsen Resouce Center, 1000 Valley Road, Reno

 

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