Changes in land use and climate require regulators and river basin managers to develop experimental observational networks that are capable of monitoring the variability in meteorological and hydrological processes controlling the runoff generation processes relevant for water resources management. The design of monitoring networks is always a balance between scientific rationale, technological capabilities and financial possibilities (or restrictions).

This practical assessment requires the development of an integrated hydro-meteorological and water quality monitoring network for the River Eden (Cumbria),which covers:

•    Precipitation

•    Evapotranspiration

•    Soil moisture

•    Stream discharge and water levels in the river and groundwater levels

•    Nutrient concentrations in surface waters and groundwater

Catchment of the River Eden, Cumbria (fig. ALFA-project website)

Your task is to develop a catchment-wide monitoring system that enables for a qualified assessment of the spatial patterns and temporal dynamics of the most important factors controlling the catchment water balance. The design of the monitoring for the different variables is to be coordinated so that measurements can ideally inform. each other.

The general design of this network, including a description of the rationale and alignment of the monitoring of all different hydro-meteorological parameters should be described at the beginning of your report. In your first part (e.g., within 250 words), should explain how the monitoring of hydro-meteorological  and water quality parameters fits in with the overall network design. In your second part of report (e.g., within 750 words), the specific design of the respective monitoring sub-systems shall be described and discussed with respect to efficiency and expected outcomes. If you are intending to use existing data from the existing synoptic networks, please justify their use and associated efforts. Use the lecture notes and information from the suggested reading to define the set of  parameters that need to be monitored (including time intervals and spatial resolution) and describe  the appropriate methodologies you have decided for but also discuss the advantages/benefits of alternative methods/approaches. Make sure you take into consideration the expected variability of the catchment processes and how this could interfere with patterns and dynamics of the processes you want to monitor.

The report should be max 1000 words, appropriately illustrated with graphs, charts, and tables. Although group discussion is allowed, this course project has to be completed individually.

SOME FINAL  ADVICE: The  Experimental Hydrology WIKI (http://www.experimental- hydrology.net) represents a fantastic resource full of practical information on sensing technologies from a wide range of manufacturers and expert opinions on their capabilities and limitations.