AESP 255 Hydrology II

School of Environment and Geomatics

AESP 255 Hydrology II is a continuation of Hydrology I, in which students collect, record and analyze hydrological data for streams, drainage basins, lakes and reservoirs, groundwater and meteorology. Hydrology II is a more in-depth study of the effects of water on our environment, and how we can understand and mitigate our impacts and support natural hydrologic cycles. Practical examples are presented for examination, data collection, analyses, and interpretation in several areas including: snow pack, winter limnology, groundwater, surface runoff, flooding, regulated rivers and meteorology. We will also examine environmental legislation pertaining to hydrology.

Prerequisites: ENVR 150 and ENVR 163 both with a minimum grade of 60%

Accessibility Services Notice

Students who would like an academic accommodation and who have a documented disability should contact Accessibility Services, if they have not already done so.

Transfer Agreements

Course to Course transfer – YesBlock Transfer – Yesbctransferguide.ca
Course Details
Total number of weeks15
Total Credits
Total Hours60
Typical hours per week breakdown
Lecture1
Lab (lab, field, computer)3

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, the learner will be able to:

  1. Explain the distribution, movement and timing of hydrological systems
  2. Communicate effectively using technical hydrological language
  3. Employ basic technical skills required in assessing water resources demonstrated through a proficiency in hydrological measuring, monitoring, and data collection
  4. Apply mathematical skills and modeling tools to develop quantitative interpretations of hydrologic data
  5. Employ critical thinking in analyzing hydrologic data
  6. Describe natural and anthropogenic variations of hydrological systems, and the scientific and cultural implications of these changes
  7. Provide educated and thoughtful responses to water sustainability issues

Teaching and Learning Approach

The course will consist of lectures, that will include note-taking, calculations, group work, readings, case studies, remote sensing, guest speakers and field trips. Labs and fieldwork will reinforce the material covered in each week’s lectures. The timing of the labs is determined by appropriate field conditions.

Selkirk College is committed to offering Work Integrated Learning opportunities for students where possible, with the cooperation of partners in our community.Students may provide short-term help on projects that aid these organizations, while also supporting student learning outcomes. Opportunities that allow students to work with community partners help to advance applied skills, improve employability, and build student self-confidence/self- awareness.

Learning Resources

Weekly readings will also be made available on Moodle.

Moodle Course Website at learn.selkirk.ca

AESP 255 enrolment key provided in class.

Please come prepared for outdoor labs with snowshoes and winter gear, tablet or phone, and a clipboard will also be required

Detailed Course Content, Topics, and Sequence Covered

1. 1. Introduction to Hydrology II and Review of Hydrology I

2. 2. Snowpack and snowmelt

3. 3. Snowpack and snowmelt

4. 4. Winter limnology

5. 5. Winter limnology

6. 6. Review in lecture

7. 7. Reading Week

8. 8. Water balance and stream flow

9. 9. Stormwater management

10. 10. Flood frequency and drought management

11. 11. Managing floods and mitigating flood damage

12. 12. Accessing online water resources

13. 13. Regulated rivers

14. 14. School of Environment and Geomatics student conference

Assessment

Title Learning Outcomes Value
Labs - Collect, record, calculate and report on data in the labs 1-7 20%
Midterm - Use hydrological terminology, concepts and calculations to answer questions 1-7 25%
Assignments based on readings, videos, podcasts, guest speakers 1-7 15%
Weekly Quizzes - review of key concepts  1-7 10%
Final Exam - Use hydrological terminology and concepts to solve problems and answer questions 1-7 30%
Total 100%

Grading Table

Standard Academic and Career Programs Grading Table

PercentageLetter GradeGPA
90-100A+4.33
85-89A4.00
80-84A-3.67
76-79B+3.33
72-75B3.00
68-71B-2.67
64-67C+2.33
60-63C2.00
55-59C-1.67
50-54P1.00
0-49F0.00
DNW0.00


See the Academic Calendar for General Information including how to withdraw from course(s) and other regulations.

Disclaimer

Information contained in this course outline is correct at the time of publication. Content of the course is revised on an ongoing basis to ensure relevance to changing educational, employment and market needs. The instructor will endeavor to provide notice of changes to students as soon as possible. The instructor reserves the right to add or delete material from courses.