Forest and Mountain Resource Management Lab – Focus “Applied Hydrology – Option 1

Lab Objectives

• Study the behaviour of water in soil and in hydrological basins o Observe the flow of water through permeable and semi-permeable soils. o Analyse drainage, filtration, infiltration and the distribution of hydraulic pressures. o Simulate the dynamics of groundwater and surface water under controlled conditions.
• Apply the fundamental principles of hydrology and geotechnics o Represent the flow paths and runoff hydrographs of small-scale catchments. o Study the effects of net rainfall, surface runoff and infiltration into the subsoil. o Analyse the stability of earth dams, the formation of quicksand and the behaviour of saturated soils.
• Develop experimental and data analysis skills o Use physical models to assess the behaviour of water and soils in realistic hydrological scenarios. o Measure flow rates, piezometric levels and runoff times. o Compare experimental data with theoretical models to assess the validity of small-scale simulations.

Educational Aims

• Make the theoretical concepts of hydraulics, hydrology and geotechnics tangible through observable physical models.
• Give students practical skills in using hydrology tanks, piezometers, drainage systems and data recording.
• Develop the ability to observe and analyse natural phenomena such as runoff, infiltration, filtration and soil drainage.
• Build familiarity with the scientific method: planning experiments, collecting and interpreting data, comparing with theoretical models.
• Prepare students for real applications such as civil, environmental and geotechnical engineering and hydraulic risk management.

Conclusion

By the end of the lab activities, students will have:

• Understood the main hydrological and geotechnical phenomena, observing the dynamics of surface water and groundwater on a small scale.
• Acquired practical skills in measuring flow rates, runoff times and piezometric levels, as well as in managing physical models of soil and water.
• Developed a critical, experimental approach to assessing drainage, filtration and soil stability.
• Gained an applied perspective useful for designing and managing hydraulic works, drainage systems and hydrogeological protection measures. This lab closely links theory and practice, offering a realistic, educational setting for understanding hydrological mechanisms and their influence on land design and safety. This solution includes technology systems that help foster inclusion and equal opportunities through innovative teaching methods. It is designed to promote active, collaborative learning.