Virginia’s water resources have become central in many debates regarding the commonwealth’s economic and environmental health. “Virginia has an ongoing need for information on water resources as energy use and climate change impose more demands on water resources. Since 1965, the Virginia Water Resources Research Center has been providing reliable, objective information on water resources,” said Center Director Stephen Schoenholtz. The Water Center, based in the College of Natural Resources and Environment since 2005, has a three-fold mission: developing water information required for decision making by Virginia officials and citizens; advancing educational opportunities for water-sciences students; and ensuring that water information is available to the public.

The center is involved in many initiatives, such as participating in the Academic Advisory Committee, formed to help the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality research water quality issues. The center uses e-mail, a radio show and podcast, newsletters, and an annual symposium to inform the public about the commonwealth’s water resources and awards the annual William Walker Fellowship to support a graduate student entering the field of water resources.

Contact: