Mapping real world hydrogeology is not about mathematically infinite isotropic homogeneous layers, and making complicated numerical calculations while sitting behind your computer. In this course, you will learn how to map recharge and discharge areas, how to combine flow field, hydrochemical data, and isotopic data into one comprehensive hydrological systems analysis, and how to use various pieces of software, developed to assist you in your analysis. Challenging, and cutting edge, delivered to you via a series of lectures, workshops, and excursions.

Learning objectives

Upon completion of the course, the participants have:

background and application knowledge of the concepts of tracer hydrology, with emphasis on environmental isotopes;
background and application knowledge of the concept of hydrochemical facies analysis;
gained practical experience in independently using these methodologies to quantitatively assess properties of and processes and their interactions in hydrological flow systems;
the ability to carry out comprehensive hydrological flow systems analyses in surface water and groundwater systems in different hydro-climatic regions and geological conditions.

Target group

This course is meant for hydrolo(geo)logists with a proper understanding of environmental chemical processes, geology and groundwater flow phenomena.

Course content

The content of this short course consists of two parts: 'Flow Systems Analysis' and 'Tracer Hydrology'.

Flow Systems Analysis (Foppen)

Introduction: definitions, use of Systems Analysis in practice, examples;
Characteristics of the natural flow field: Toth’s description of Groundwater Flow Systems;
Hydrochemical Facies Analysis: Defining the facies and classification of water types, indexes and temperature, identification of groundwater origin, mapping and interpretation;
Spreadsheet exercises and introduction to HYCA software.

Tracer Hydrology (Uhlenbrook)

This course treats different methods to analyse and assess hydrological flow systems. Special attention will be given to hydro-chemical and tracer hydrological approaches to delineate flow systems and understanding flow patterns in the environment. The use of tracer techniques will illustrate the determination of flow pathways, residence times of the water, the hydraulic properties of flow systems and the mixing of different water compartments. The learning objectives will be achieved through class lectures explaining background and methodologies, practical application exercises, which are to be worked out as assignments, and group exercises.

Course materials

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Isotope Hydrology, CD-Rom, 2005
Foppen, J-W., Regional Hydrological Systems Analysis, Lecture notes, 2008
Uhlenbrook, S., Tracer Hydrology, UNESCO-IHE, Lecture notes, 2006

Additional reading

Kendall, C., McDonnell J.J., Isotopes in catchment hydrology, Elsevier, 1998
Kaess, W., Tracing techniques in geohydrology, Balkema, 2001
Hornberger, G.M., Raffensperger, J.P., Wiberg, P.L. and Eshleman, K.N., Elements of physical hydrology, Johns Hopkins Univ. Press, 1998
Dingman, S.L., Physical hydrology, 2nd ed., Prentice-Hall, 2002
Engelen, G.B. and F.H. Kloosterman, 1996. Hydrological systems analysis, methods and applications. Kluwer Academic Publishers, 1996

Examination

It is possible to take part in the examination of this short course. If you obtain a passing mark for this examination and return to UNESCO-IHE within four years after completion of the short course to follow a full MSc programme, you will receive exemption for this short course/module. The costs for this exam are €250 extra and should be borne by yourself. Taking part in the examination is not compulsory.