Introduction to Water Resources Management

Abstract

The course introduces the fundamentals of water resources analysis and management, addressing topics such as water demand and availability, resource exploitation and reservoir design, water quality and pollution, sustainable use, nature-based solutions for mitigating water-related hazards, and future water availability.

Objective

Upon successful completion of the course, students will develop a solid understanding of the fundamental concepts and principles of water resources management, encompassing both water quantity and quality dimensions. They will gain awareness of real-world challenges such as water scarcity, overexploitation, and pollution. Students will acquire essential analytical and computational skills to estimate water availability and demand, evaluate water use efficiency, and assess trade-offs among competing uses. They will also learn to apply basic tools and methods for optimizing water allocation, analyzing the impacts of climatic and human-induced changes on water systems, and identifying sustainable management strategies.

Content

Challenges and conflicts in water supply; fundamental concepts of water resources management; estimation of water demand and availability; water resources in a changing environment; hydrological extremes (droughts and floods); water quantity and reservoir design; water quality and protection; and nature-based solutions in water management.

Resources