Integrated Water Resources Management
Expert-defined terms from the Professional Certificate in Water Resource Modeling course at London School of Business and Administration. Free to read, free to share, paired with a professional course.
Absolute Humidity refers to the total amount of water vapor present in a given v… #
Related terms include Relative Humidity and Specific Humidity, which are also used to describe the amount of water vapor in the air. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, understanding Absolute Humidity is crucial for predicting precipitation patterns and managing water resources effectively. For instance, high Absolute Humidity can lead to increased precipitation, which can result in flooding or replenishment of water sources.
Adaptive Management is an approach to managing water resources that involves con… #
This approach recognizes that water systems are complex and dynamic, and that management practices must be flexible and responsive to changing conditions. Related terms include Iterative Management and Dynamic Management, which also emphasize the importance of ongoing evaluation and improvement. Adaptive Management is particularly useful in the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, where it can help managers respond to changing climate conditions, population growth, and other factors that affect water resources.
Aeration refers to the process of introducing air into water, usually to increas… #
This can be an important aspect of water treatment, as many aquatic organisms require oxygen to survive. Related terms include Oxygenation and Aerobic Treatment, which also involve the introduction of air into water. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Aeration can be used to improve water quality and support aquatic ecosystems.
Aggregation refers to the process of combining smaller units of data or informat… #
In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Aggregation can be used to combine data from multiple sources, such as precipitation gauges or stream flow monitors, to create a more complete picture of the water system. Related terms include Disaggregation and Scaling, which involve breaking down larger units of data into smaller, more detailed units. Aggregation can be useful for identifying patterns and trends in water data, and for making predictions about future water availability.
Aquifer refers to a layer of rock or soil that can store and transmit significan… #
Aquifers can be an important source of freshwater, particularly in areas where surface water is scarce. Related terms include Groundwater and Subsurface Water, which also refer to water stored beneath the Earth's surface. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, understanding Aquifers is crucial for managing groundwater resources, which can be used for drinking water, irrigation, and other purposes.
Artificial Recharge refers to the process of intentionally introducing water int… #
This can be done to replenish groundwater supplies, support aquatic ecosystems, or prevent land subsidence. Related terms include Induced Recharge and Managed Recharge, which also involve the intentional introduction of water into underground formations. Artificial Recharge can be an important aspect of Integrated Water Resources Management, particularly in areas where groundwater is a critical component of the water supply.
Base Flow refers to the minimum amount of flow that occurs in a stream or river,… #
Base Flow is often maintained by groundwater discharge, and can be an important component of the water budget. Related terms include Low Flow and Dry Weather Flow, which also refer to the minimum amount of flow in a stream or river. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, understanding Base Flow is crucial for managing water resources during periods of drought or water scarcity.
Best Management Practices (BMPs) refer to a set of techniques or strategies that… #
BMPs can include practices such as reducing fertilizer use, implementing erosion control measures, or using efficient irrigation systems. Related terms include Water Conservation and Sustainable Practices, which also emphasize the importance of minimizing the impact of human activities on water resources. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, BMPs can be used to reduce pollution, conserve water, and protect aquatic ecosystems.
Capillary Action refers to the ability of a substance to draw water up a narrow… #
This can be an important aspect of water movement in soils and other porous media. Related terms include Wicking and Soil Moisture, which also involve the movement of water in soils and other materials. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, understanding Capillary Action can help managers predict water movement and availability in different environments.
Catchment refers to the area of land that drains water into a particular stream,… #
Catchments can be an important unit of analysis in Integrated Water Resources Management, as they often define the boundaries of a water system. Related terms include Watershed and Drainage Basin, which also refer to the area of land that drains water into a particular water body. Understanding the characteristics of a Catchment, such as its topography, geology, and land use, can help managers predict water flow and quality.
Climate Change refers to the long #
term warming of the Earth's climate, often associated with increases in greenhouse gas emissions. Climate Change can have significant impacts on water resources, including changes in precipitation patterns, increased evaporation, and altered water quality. Related terms include Global Warming and Sea Level Rise, which also refer to the impacts of climate change on the environment. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, understanding Climate Change is crucial for predicting and adapting to changes in water availability and quality.
Conjunctive Use refers to the practice of using both surface water and groundwat… #
This can be an effective way to manage water resources, particularly in areas where surface water is limited or unreliable. Related terms include Integrated Water Management and Comprehensive Water Planning, which also emphasize the importance of considering multiple sources of water. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Conjunctive Use can help managers optimize water use and reduce the risk of water scarcity.
Conservation refers to the practice of protecting and preserving water resources… #
This can involve reducing water waste, implementing efficient irrigation systems, or protecting aquatic ecosystems. Related terms include Water Efficiency and Sustainable Development, which also emphasize the importance of conserving water resources. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Conservation can help managers reduce the demand on water resources and protect the environment.
Crop Coefficient refers to a factor that is used to estimate the amount of water… #
This can be an important aspect of irrigation management, as it helps farmers determine how much water to apply to their crops. Related terms include Crop Water Requirement and Irrigation Scheduling, which also involve the management of water for agricultural purposes. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, understanding Crop Coefficient can help managers optimize irrigation practices and reduce water waste.
Demand Management refers to the practice of managing water demand to match avail… #
This can involve implementing water-saving measures, promoting water-efficient practices, or restricting water use during periods of drought. Related terms include Water Conservation and Rationing, which also involve reducing water demand. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Demand Management can help managers balance water supply and demand, and reduce the risk of water scarcity.
Desalination refers to the process of removing salt and other minerals from seaw… #
This can be an important aspect of water management in coastal areas, where freshwater is limited. Related terms include Reverse Osmosis and Distillation, which are also used to remove salt and other minerals from water. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Desalination can provide a reliable source of freshwater, particularly in areas where other sources are limited.
Drainage Basin refers to the area of land that drains water into a particular st… #
Drainage Basins can be an important unit of analysis in Integrated Water Resources Management, as they often define the boundaries of a water system. Related terms include Catchment and Watershed, which also refer to the area of land that drains water into a particular water body. Understanding the characteristics of a Drainage Basin, such as its topography, geology, and land use, can help managers predict water flow and quality.
Drought refers to a period of abnormally low rainfall, often resulting in water… #
Drought can have significant impacts on water resources, including reduced water availability, increased evaporation, and altered water quality. Related terms include Water Scarcity and Dry Spell, which also refer to periods of low rainfall or water availability. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, understanding Drought is crucial for predicting and adapting to changes in water availability.
Ecological Flow refers to the amount of water required to maintain a healthy and… #
This can involve maintaining a minimum flow in a stream or river, or preserving natural flow regimes. Related terms include Environmental Flow and Stream Flow, which also refer to the amount of water required to maintain aquatic ecosystems. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Ecological Flow can help managers protect aquatic ecosystems and maintain biodiversity.
Ecosystem Services refer to the benefits that humans derive from functioning eco… #
Ecosystem Services can be an important aspect of Integrated Water Resources Management, as they help managers understand the value of water resources and the importance of protecting them. Related terms include Environmental Services and Natural Capital, which also refer to the benefits provided by functioning ecosystems.
Effluent refers to the wastewater or other discharge from a particular source, s… #
Effluent can have significant impacts on water quality, and must be managed carefully to protect aquatic ecosystems. Related terms include Wastewater and Discharge, which also refer to the release of water or other substances into the environment. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Effluent can be an important aspect of water pollution control and management.
Evapotranspiration refers to the process by which plants release water vapor int… #
This can be an important aspect of water balance, as it helps managers understand how much water is being lost from the system. Related terms include Evaporation and Transpiration, which also involve the release of water vapor into the air. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Evapotranspiration can help managers predict water availability and balance water supply and demand.
Flood Control refers to the practice of managing flood risk, often through the u… #
Flood Control can be an important aspect of Integrated Water Resources Management, as it helps managers protect people and property from the impacts of flooding. Related terms include Flood Protection and Water Management, which also involve the management of flood risk. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Flood Control can help managers reduce the risk of flooding and protect aquatic ecosystems.
Flow Regime refers to the pattern of water flow in a particular stream or river,… #
Flow Regime can be an important aspect of aquatic ecosystems, as it helps managers understand how water flow affects the environment. Related terms include Stream Flow and River Flow, which also refer to the pattern of water flow in a particular water body. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Flow Regime can help managers predict water availability and protect aquatic ecosystems.
Geographic Information System (GIS) refers to a computer #
based system for capturing, storing, and analyzing data related to geographic locations. GIS can be an important tool in Integrated Water Resources Management, as it helps managers visualize and analyze water data, and predict water flow and quality. Related terms include Remote Sensing and Mapping, which also involve the use of technology to analyze and visualize geographic data. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, GIS can help managers identify areas of high water risk, predict water scarcity, and optimize water management practices.
Groundwater refers to the water stored beneath the Earth's surface, often in aqu… #
Groundwater can be an important source of freshwater, particularly in areas where surface water is limited. Related terms include Subsurface Water and Aquifer, which also refer to water stored beneath the Earth's surface. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, understanding Groundwater is crucial for managing water resources, predicting water availability, and protecting aquatic ecosystems.
Hydrologic Cycle refers to the continuous process by which water is circulated b… #
The Hydrologic Cycle can be an important aspect of Integrated Water Resources Management, as it helps managers understand how water moves through the environment. Related terms include Water Cycle and Hydrology, which also refer to the study of water movement and distribution. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, the Hydrologic Cycle can help managers predict water availability, balance water supply and demand, and protect aquatic ecosystems.
Hydrology refers to the study of the movement, distribution, and quality of wate… #
Hydrology can be an important aspect of Integrated Water Resources Management, as it helps managers understand how water moves through the environment and predict water availability. Related terms include Water Science and Hydrologic Engineering, which also involve the study of water movement and distribution. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Hydrology can help managers optimize water use, reduce the risk of flooding, and protect aquatic ecosystems.
Infiltration refers to the process by which water moves from the Earth's surface… #
Infiltration can be an important aspect of water balance, as it helps managers understand how much water is being lost from the system. Related terms include Percolation and Soil Moisture, which also involve the movement of water in soils and other materials. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Infiltration can help managers predict water availability, balance water supply and demand, and protect aquatic ecosystems.
Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) refers to the practice of managing… #
IWRM can be an important approach to managing water resources, as it helps managers balance water supply and demand, protect aquatic ecosystems, and optimize water use. Related terms include Comprehensive Water Management and Sustainable Water Development, which also emphasize the importance of managing water resources in a coordinated and sustainable way. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, IWRM can help managers reduce the risk of water scarcity, protect aquatic ecosystems, and promote economic development.
Irrigation refers to the practice of applying water to crops or other plants, of… #
Irrigation can be an important aspect of agricultural production, as it helps farmers optimize crop yields and reduce water waste. Related terms include Crop Water Requirement and Irrigation Scheduling, which also involve the management of water for agricultural purposes. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Irrigation can help managers optimize water use, reduce water waste, and promote agricultural productivity.
Leachate refers to the liquid that seeps through a particular material or format… #
Leachate can be an important aspect of water pollution control, as it can help managers understand how pollutants are moving through the environment. Related terms include Percolate and Seepage, which also refer to the movement of liquids through materials or formations. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Leachate can help managers predict water quality, identify sources of pollution, and develop strategies for pollution control.
Modeling refers to the use of mathematical or computational techniques to simula… #
Modeling can be an important tool in Integrated Water Resources Management, as it helps managers predict water flow and quality, optimize water use, and reduce the risk of water scarcity. Related terms include Simulation and Prediction, which also involve the use of mathematical or computational techniques to analyze or predict system behavior. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Modeling can help managers identify areas of high water risk, optimize water management practices, and promote sustainable development.
Non #
Point Source Pollution refers to the release of pollutants into the environment from diffuse or non-specific sources, such as agricultural runoff or urban stormwater. Non-Point Source Pollution can be an important aspect of water pollution control, as it can help managers understand how pollutants are moving through the environment. Related terms include Point Source Pollution and Diffuse Pollution, which also refer to the release of pollutants into the environment. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Non-Point Source Pollution can help managers predict water quality, identify sources of pollution, and develop strategies for pollution control.
Percolation refers to the process by which water moves through a particular mate… #
Percolation can be an important aspect of water balance, as it helps managers understand how much water is being lost from the system. Related terms include Infiltration and Soil Moisture, which also involve the movement of water in soils and other materials. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Percolation can help managers predict water availability, balance water supply and demand, and protect aquatic ecosystems.
Precipitation refers to the amount of water that falls to the Earth's surface, o… #
Precipitation can be an important aspect of water balance, as it helps managers understand how much water is being added to the system. Related terms include Rainfall and Snowfall, which also refer to the amount of water that falls to the Earth's surface. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Precipitation can help managers predict water availability, balance water supply and demand, and protect aquatic ecosystems.
Recharge refers to the process by which water is added to a particular aquifer o… #
Recharge can be an important aspect of groundwater management, as it helps managers understand how much water is being added to the system. Related terms include Artificial Recharge and Natural Recharge, which also refer to the process of adding water to an aquifer or other underground formation. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Recharge can help managers predict water availability, balance water supply and demand, and protect aquatic ecosystems.
Return Flow refers to the amount of water that flows back into a particular stre… #
Return Flow can be an important aspect of water balance, as it helps managers understand how much water is being lost from the system. Related terms include Runoff and Drainage, which also refer to the movement of water in a particular area. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Return Flow can help managers predict water availability, balance water supply and demand, and protect aquatic ecosystems.
Riparian refers to the area of land adjacent to a particular stream, river, or l… #
Riparian zones can be an important aspect of aquatic ecosystems, as they help managers understand how water flow affects the environment. Related terms include Floodplain and Wetland, which also refer to areas of land adjacent to water bodies. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Riparian zones can help managers predict water flow, protect aquatic ecosystems, and promote biodiversity.
Runoff refers to the amount of water that flows over the Earth's surface, often… #
Runoff can be an important aspect of water balance, as it helps managers understand how much water is being lost from the system. Related terms include Drainage and Flow, which also refer to the movement of water in a particular area. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Runoff can help managers predict water availability, balance water supply and demand, and protect aquatic ecosystems.
Salinization refers to the process by which water becomes more saline or salty,… #
Salinization can be an important aspect of water quality management, as it can affect the suitability of water for human consumption or other uses. Related terms include Desalination and Brackish Water, which also refer to the quality of water. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Salinization can help managers predict water quality, identify sources of pollution, and develop strategies for pollution control.
Sedimentation refers to the process by which solid particles settle to the botto… #
Sedimentation can be an important aspect of water treatment, as it can help remove particulate matter and other contaminants from the water. Related terms include Settling and Deposition, which also refer to the process of solid particles settling to the bottom of a water body. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Sedimentation can help managers predict water quality, identify sources of pollution, and develop strategies for pollution control.
Source Water Protection refers to the practice of protecting the sources of drin… #
Source Water Protection can be an important aspect of water quality management, as it helps managers understand how to protect the sources of drinking water. Related terms include Watershed Management and Drinking Water Protection, which also refer to the practice of protecting the sources of drinking water. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Source Water Protection can help managers predict water quality, identify sources of pollution, and develop strategies for pollution control.
Stream Flow refers to the amount of water that flows in a particular stream or r… #
Stream Flow can be an important aspect of aquatic ecosystems, as it helps managers understand how water flow affects the environment. Related terms include River Flow and Discharge, which also refer to the amount of water that flows in a particular water body. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Stream Flow can help managers predict water availability, balance water supply and demand, and protect aquatic ecosystems.
Subsurface Flow refers to the movement of water beneath the Earth's surface, oft… #
Subsurface Flow can be an important aspect of groundwater management, as it helps managers understand how water is moving through the environment. Related terms include Groundwater Flow and Aquifer Flow, which also refer to the movement of water beneath the Earth's surface. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Subsurface Flow can help managers predict water availability, balance water supply and demand, and protect aquatic ecosystems.
Sustainable Development refers to the practice of meeting the needs of the prese… #
Sustainable Development can be an important aspect of Integrated Water Resources Management, as it helps managers understand how to manage water resources in a way that is environmentally, socially, and economically sustainable. Related terms include Environmental Sustainability and Social Responsibility, which also refer to the practice of managing resources in a sustainable way. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Sustainable Development can help managers predict water availability, balance water supply and demand, and promote economic development.
Transboundary Water refers to a water body or aquifer that spans the borders of… #
Transboundary Water can be an important aspect of Integrated Water Resources Management, as it helps managers understand how to manage water resources that are shared by multiple countries. Related terms include International Water and Shared Water, which also refer to water bodies or aquifers that are shared by multiple countries. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Transboundary Water can help managers predict water availability, balance water supply and demand, and promote international cooperation.
Wastewater refers to the used or contaminated water that is generated by human a… #
Wastewater can be an important aspect of water pollution control, as it can help managers understand how to manage and treat wastewater. Related terms include Effluent and Sewage, which also refer to the used or contaminated water generated by human activities. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Wastewater can help managers predict water quality, identify sources of pollution, and develop strategies for pollution control.
Water Balance refers to the accounting of all the inputs and outputs of water in… #
Water Balance can be an important aspect of Integrated Water Resources Management, as it helps managers understand how to manage water resources in a way that is environmentally, socially, and economically sustainable. Related terms include Hydrologic Balance and Water Budget, which also refer to the accounting of water inputs and outputs. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Water Balance can help managers predict water availability, balance water supply and demand, and promote sustainable development.
Water Conservation refers to the practice of reducing water waste and promoting… #
Water Conservation can be an important aspect of Integrated Water Resources Management, as it helps managers understand how to manage water resources in a way that is environmentally, socially, and economically sustainable. Related terms include Water Efficiency and Sustainable Water Use, which also refer to the practice of reducing water waste and promoting efficient use of water. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Water Conservation can help managers predict water availability, balance water supply and demand, and promote sustainable development.
Water Cycle refers to the continuous process by which water is circulated betwee… #
The Water Cycle can be an important aspect of Integrated Water Resources Management, as it helps managers understand how water moves through the environment. Related terms include Hydrologic Cycle and Water Circulation, which also refer to the movement of water in the environment. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, the Water Cycle can help managers predict water availability, balance water supply and demand, and protect aquatic ecosystems.
Water Pollution refers to the contamination of water by human activities, often… #
Water Pollution can be an important aspect of Integrated Water Resources Management, as it helps managers understand how to manage and mitigate the impacts of water pollution. Related terms include Water Quality and Contamination, which also refer to the contamination of water by human activities. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Water Pollution can help managers predict water quality, identify sources of pollution, and develop strategies for pollution control.
Water Quality refers to the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics o… #
Water Quality can be an important aspect of Integrated Water Resources Management, as it helps managers understand how to manage and protect water resources. Related terms include Water Pollution and Contamination, which also refer to the contamination of water by human activities. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Water Quality can help managers predict water availability, balance water supply and demand, and protect aquatic ecosystems.
Water Rights refer to the legal or administrative mechanisms that govern the use… #
Water Rights can be an important aspect of Integrated Water Resources Management, as it helps managers understand how to manage and allocate water resources in a way that is fair, efficient, and sustainable. Related terms include Water Law and Water Policy, which also refer to the legal or administrative mechanisms that govern the use of water. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Water Rights can help managers predict water availability, balance water supply and demand, and promote sustainable development.
Watershed refers to the area of land that drains water into a particular stream,… #
Watersheds can be an important aspect of Integrated Water Resources Management, as they help managers understand how to manage and protect water resources. Related terms include Catchment and Drainage Basin, which also refer to the area of land that drains water into a particular water body. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Watersheds can help managers predict water availability, balance water supply and demand, and protect aquatic ecosystems.
Wetland refers to an area of land that is saturated with water, often characteri… #
Wetlands can be an important aspect of aquatic ecosystems, as they help managers understand how to manage and protect water resources. Related terms include Floodplain and Riparian Zone, which also refer to areas of land adjacent to water bodies. In the context of Integrated Water Resources Management, Wetlands can help managers predict water availability, balance water supply and demand, and promote biodiversity.