Here’s a brief list of what Hydrologists do:

• Water Resource Assessment: Studies the distribution, movement, and properties of water in the Earth's atmosphere, on its surface, and underground.

• Surface Water and Groundwater Analysis: Measures and analyzes water flow, quality, and storage in rivers, lakes, reservoirs, aquifers, and other water bodies using field data and computer models.

• Water Quality Monitoring: Monitors and assesses water quality parameters such as pH, dissolved oxygen, nutrients, contaminants, and pollutants to ensure water safety and sustainability.

• Flood Forecasting and Management: Develops flood models and forecasts to predict and mitigate flood risks, and advises on floodplain management and emergency response strategies.

• Climate Change Impacts: Studies the effects of climate change on hydrological processes, including changes in precipitation patterns, snowmelt, evaporation, and groundwater recharge.

• Water Resource Management: Advises on sustainable water management practices, including water allocation, irrigation efficiency, watershed management, and water conservation strategies.

• Environmental Impact Assessment: Assesses the potential impacts of land use changes, infrastructure development, and industrial activities on water resources and ecosystems.

Here’s how YOU can become one:

1. Educational Foundation:

• High School: Focus on taking courses in mathematics (including calculus and statistics), physics, chemistry, biology, and environmental science. These subjects provide a strong foundation for understanding scientific principles and processes relevant to hydrology.

• Bachelor’s Degree: Pursue a bachelor’s degree in hydrology, water resources engineering, environmental science, geology, civil engineering, or a related field. Ensure the program includes coursework in hydrology, water chemistry, fluid mechanics, environmental law and policy, and geostatistics.

2. Gain Practical Experience:

• Seek internships, summer programs, or research opportunities during your undergraduate studies. Look for positions at water resource management agencies, environmental consulting firms, research institutions, or government agencies (e.g., USGS, EPA) involved in water quality monitoring and hydrological research. Practical experience in fieldwork, data collection, and laboratory analysis is crucial.

3. Advanced Degrees (Optional):

• Consider pursuing a master’s degree or Ph.D. in hydrology, water resources management, environmental engineering, or a specialized area of hydrological sciences if you plan to work in research, academia, or advanced positions in water resource management. Advanced degrees provide opportunities for specialized research, advanced analytical skills, and leadership roles.

4. Develop Technical Skills:

• Gain proficiency in hydrological modeling software, such as MODFLOW, HEC-RAS, SWAT (Soil and Water Assessment Tool), and GIS (Geographic Information Systems) for spatial analysis of hydrological data.

• Familiarize yourself with hydrological instrumentation and equipment used for water sampling, flow measurement, groundwater monitoring, and water quality analysis.

5. Specialize in Hydrology:

• Hydrology encompasses various specializations, including surface water hydrology, groundwater hydrology, watershed management, water quality, ecohydrology, and hydrological modeling. Consider specializing in a particular area based on your interests and career goals.

6. Build a Professional Network:

• Join professional organizations such as the American Water Resources Association (AWRA), the International Association of Hydrological Sciences (IAHS), or local hydrology societies. Attend conferences, workshops, and seminars to network with professionals, present research findings, and stay updated on advancements in hydrology.

  This is a very brief and general plan. To know your specific academic path for this career please talk to an advisor at the college or program you plan on attending!