Hillslope studies
Combining isotope sampling, hydrometric monitoring, geophysics and hydropedological surveys to identify and quantify distinct hillslope responses within the catchment, to rainfall events. These hillslope response classifications will lead to improvements in: understanding interactions between soil water distribution and vegetation uptake; low flow predictions; extrapolation of hydrological modelling in ungauged catchments and even quantifying non-point source pollution processes.
Interceptions studies
Interception studies aim to better understand, quantify and model two important hydrological processes that are often ignored or underestimated, namely, canopy and litter interception. Results show that canopy and litter interception within both commercial and indigenous forests contribute a significant portion of the water balance in mistbelt areas.
Isotope analysis
Isotopes are used to identify the sources of water and its movement through the catchment. Water samples are collected and processed using an Isotope Ratio Laser Spectrometer to determine the abundance of Oxygen and Hydrogen isotopes. Current studies using isotopes include the determination of the source of water used by Acacia mearnsii (Black wattle) in the Two Streams catchment. The isotope signature is dependent on the amount of fractionation caused by evaporation and condensation which alters the ratio’s between δ18O and δ2H.
Hydrometeorological studies
Hydrometeorology is a branch of meteorology and hydrology that studies the transfer of water and energy between the land surface and the lower atmosphere. Hydrometeorological studies address questions regarding land use, the long-term effects of climate change on water resources, and regional precipitation.
