Utah Water Research Laboratory

?? New publication from the NSF I-GUIDE team! "Toward Reproducible and Interoperable Environmental Modeling: Integration of HydroShare with Server-side Methods for Exposing Large-Extent Spatial Datasets to Models" published in Environmental Modelling and Software By authors: Young-Don Choi of K-water (Korea Water Resources Corporation) and the University of Virginia Iman Maghami of the University of Virginia and Brigham Young University Jonathan Goodall of the University of Virginia Larry Band of the University of Virginia Ayman Nassar of the Utah State University YuJu (Laurence) LIN of the University of Virginia Linnea Saby, Ph.D. of the University of Virginia ZHIYU (Drew) LI of the University of Utah Shaowen Wang of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Chris Calloway of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Hong Yi of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Martin Seul of the Consortium of Universities for the Advancement of Hydrologic Science, Inc. (CUAHSI) Dan Ames of Brigham Young University David Tarboton of the Utah Water Research Laboratory at the University of Utah Read the full paper here ?? https://lnkd.in/gvTJcRhG This study presents a method for automating the distribution of state-scale spatial datasets for GIS-based environmental modeling, using GeoServer and THREDDS Data Server connected to HydroShare. By applying this approach with the RHESSys model across three U.S. watersheds, the study demonstrates minimal errors compared to traditional methods, enhancing reproducibility. This method can be adapted for various scales and other online data repositories, streamlining the process for researchers. Read the full paper here ?? https://lnkd.in/gvTJcRhG Abstract Reproducible environmental modelling often relies on spatial datasets as inputs, typically manually subset for specific areas. Yet, models can benefit from a data distribution approach facilitated by online repositories, and automating processes to foster reproducibility. This study introduces a method leveraging diverse state-scale spatial datasets to create cohesive packages for GIS-based environmental modelling. These datasets were generated and shared via GeoServer and THREDDS Data Server Connected to HydroShare, contrasting with conventional distribution methods. Using the Regional Hydro-Ecologic Simulation System (RHESSys) across three U.S. catchment-scale watersheds, we demonstrate minimal errors in spatial inputs and model streamflow outputs compared to traditional approaches. This spatial data-sharing method facilitates consistent model creation, fostering reproducibility. Its broader impact allows scientists to tailor the method to various use cases, such as exploring different scales beyond state-scale or applying it to other online repositories using existing data distribution systems, eliminating the need to develop their own.

A few weeks ago, our installation at The Leonardo in SLC was unveiled as part of a new water exhibit. The story of the Great Salt Lake basin is the story of those who live in it. We interact with water every day, and the choices we make impact the lake. Filled with stunning photography and featuring our large 3D map of the watersheds, "Water: Nature’s Driving Force" connects us to the water running through our land. "Wherever you are in the basin, you are connected to the Great Salt Lake." The exhibit runs through May 2025. Go check it out! https://lnkd.in/gGviArxh

“The infrastructure and effort needed to do comprehensive data management is sometimes overlooked," - Jeffrey Horsburgh, professor at the Utah Water Research Laboratory Collaboration with the UDWRi is always a pleasure. This work will help modernize water data collection and management across the state!

Drone delivery is becoming an active part of transportation systems, but they can only go so far before running out of power. What happens when you need vaccines or snake anti-venom on-site, and you need them fast? A NIST-funded project brought together North Carolina State University, Utah Water Research Laboratory at Utah State University, and Navajo Technical University to develop cutting-edge drone technology for pandemic preparedness. The project focuses on autonomous drones capable of delivering medical supplies across long distances, equipped with wireless charging and thermal regulation systems. #drones #vertiport #dronedelivery

Drone delivery is becoming an active part of transportation systems, but they can only go so far before running out of power. What happens when you need vaccines or snake anti-venom on-site, and you need them fast? A NIST-funded project brought together North Carolina State University, Utah Water Research Laboratory at Utah State University, and Navajo Technical University to develop cutting-edge drone technology for pandemic preparedness. The project focuses on autonomous drones capable of delivering medical supplies across long distances, equipped with wireless charging and thermal regulation systems. #drones #vertiport #dronedelivery

We are looking for a water rights engineer who will work with our data and automation teams to determine new measurement locations to meet modeling needs. This is challenging and interesting role that is pivotal in helping to shape the future of the Utah's most valuable resource. The application link included below.

The future is uncertain, but the agreements for water management in the Colorado River Basin are expiring in 2026, and new agreements need new solutions. Working on a project funded by the US Bureau of Reclamation, Utah Water Research Laboratory graduate student Homa Salehabadi developed a structured framework for assessing streamflow data to inform management options post-2026. As part of this project, Salehabadi assembled a comprehensive set of statistical metrics to evaluate possible streamflow ensembles, or sets of data over a period of time. These metrics are being used by the US Bureau of Reclamation to look at future scenarios as decision makers begin work on new agreements in the Colorado River Basin. Check it out here: https://lnkd.in/esR8dGKM

This has been a long time in the making. If you're interested in the report findings, check out the story here: https://lnkd.in/e39yQcA5 #Greatsaltlake #waterrights #watermeasurement

Being Utah's premiere water research facility, we collaborate with many different entities: policy makers, government agencies, other universities, private researchers, and more. We absolutely love working with the Utah Division of Water Rights. Two of our professors recently collaborated with this important agency to conduct gap analyses. One looked at data collection and storage, and the other focused on measurement infrastructure. UDWRi will use the analysis reports to inform updates their systems as they effectively manage Utah's water and promote stewardship of this precious resource.? #watermanagement #collaboration

Our spring newsletter is out! If you're curious about Bear Lake water quality, LiDAR capabilities on drones, or the effect of microplastics on antibiotic resistance, click the link below. If none of that interests you, take a refreshing sip from your water bottle and come back. We'll wait.? https://lnkd.in/gxrqptN