ESCI 473/573: Fundamentals of Hydrogeology

3 credits

About This Course: Hydrogeology is the study of the interaction of water with geological materials. We will track water through the hydrologic cycle, starting with surface water, and movement of water through aquifers. Emphasis will be on aquifer properties and groundwater movement. Contaminant transport, water law and water resources will also be covered. Regional examples will be integrated into the class as much as possible. By the end of the class you should have a firm grasp of the hydrologic cycle and the flow of water through aquifers.

Required Textbook: Fetter, C.W., 2001, Applied Hydrogeology, 4th Edition

Prerequisites: MATH 102, ESCI 101 or instructor consent.

Problem Sets: Problem sets will be assigned on a weekly basis for the first half of the class. Questions will be mostly derived from problems given at the end of each chapter.

Field Trip: A field trip will be scheduled, pending good weather, later in the semester. We will measure groundwater levels in local wells and conduct some basic chemistry of ground and surface water.