53:103 - Water Quality

Course Description:

Water Quality is determined by the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of natural waters and how these characteristics meet (or fail to meet) designated uses for specific water bodies. In this course, the sources, uses, characteristics, and best management practices for lakes, rivers, estuaries, and coastal waters will be considered. Impairment of waters due to eutrophication, soil erosion and sedimentation, pathogenic organisms, habitat destruction, invasive species, point source discharges, contaminated sediments, atmospheric deposition, watershed development, irrigation return flows, and agricultural runoff will be discussed. Mathematical models will be used for assessment, and best management practices will be considered to remedy impaired waters. Students will measure water quality characteristics in the field.

Class Syllabus
Lecture Notes
Laboratory Notes
Water Quality Glossary