Content

Description of the Integrated Project concept: (sub)tropical semi-arid climate case study:

• The structure of the project is given, the objectives and the approach to evaluation. An introduction to the geographical, hydrological and water management characteristics of the catchment is provided. The social, legal and environmental requirements for an integrated river basin management plan are provided. An expert from the water authorities will provide information on the preparation of a management plan of the (sub)tropical semi-arid river basin.
• An overview of the project team (students, lecturers) and database, the capacity, role and task of each participant will be given. An overview will be given of the importance and requirements for analysis and modelling within an integrated framework for the following aspects: surface water, groundwater, river flow, urban water aspects, agricultural water management (irrigation and soil), aquatic ecology and water quality.
• A schematic analysis of the structure of the network of water interactions will be drawn. The design and start of cooperative modelling of the water network aspects will be achieved through group work.
• Fieldwork, measurements and excursion to catchment are undertaken. Discussions with catchment water managers and different stakeholders are aimed at deepening the understanding of water supply and demand. This apporach envisages the integration of social, legal and systems in water management.
• Group work is focused on discussion and integration of different modelling methods on various aspects of integrated water resources management. 
• The final step in the process is the integration of different group reports and modelling efforts in a joint formulation of conclusions and recommendations. The findings are presented to and discussed with different catchment stakeholders and the scientific community. The integrated project report and presentation are finalsed based on the discussions and feedback obtained.

Course material

Study cost: More than 100 euros (The information about the study costs as stated here gives an indication and only represents the costs for purchasing new materials. There might be some electronic or second-hand copies available as well. You can use LIMO to check whether the textbook is available in the library. Any potential printing costs and optional course material are not included in this price.)

Presentations and literature are provided during preparatory sessions.

Travel and subsistence cost are to be paid by non-VLIR students. A dedicated information session including cost estimates is planned to facilitate the choice between different options of temperate cases and the tropical climate case.

Format: more information

Field internship - Fieldwork - Group assignment

26 hrs/2 credits theory; 26 hrs/2 credits of practical work; 26 hrs/1 credits of assignment/guided self-study