Watershed Hydrology and Surficial Processes. Cr. 4

Lee Burras,
Iowa State University

UI: 00L:142
ISU: Ia LL 402I (Agron 402I, EnSci 402I)
UNI: 890:142g

Effects of geomorphology, soils, and land use on transport of water and materials (nutrients, contaminants) in watersheds. Fieldwork will emphasize investigations of the Iowa Great Lakes watershed. Prerequisites: four courses in the physical or biological sciences or engineering. Meets May 18 to June 12, 2009.

An examination of the environment at the watershed level. Emphasis will be placed on the geological climatological, and biological interactions that have created the hydrology, landscapes and soils of northwest Iowa watersheds. During the first week of class, the geologic and ecological history of the area as well as basic concepts of hydrology and pedology will be covered. The following three weeks will be spent studying local landscapes, soils, and hydrology. These will be examined in terms of pre-settlement and post-settlement conditions. Students will need a day pack containing a clipboard, notebook, sturdy knife, hand lens (5 - 10X), and sunscreen. Appropriate attire will include field boots, hat or cap, rain wear, and clothes suitable for working outdoors with soil, water, and plants. Recommended books: Manning, J.C., 1997, Applied Principles of Hydrology (Prentice Hall, Inc.) (ISBN 0-13-565532-3); Dankert, W.N., 1983, Soil Survey of Osceola County, Iowa, USDA-NRCS. Field trip fee $65.