Welcome to the USDA-Agricultural Research Service Agroclimate and Hydraulic Engineering Research Unit website!
Scientists at the USDA-ARS Agroclimate and Hydraulic Engineering Research Unit are providing the knowledge and tools needed to better understand and predict the performance of earthen dams and spillways subjected to erosion during extreme weather events. Find out more about embankment breach processes and our support of dam safety!
Scientists at the USDA-ARS Agroclimate and Hydraulic Engineering Research Unit are supporting dam safety through the development of design guidance for roller compacted concrete stepped spillways. Find out more about our research on embankment overtopping protection systems!
Scientists at the USDA-ARS Agroclimate and Hydraulic Engineering Research Unit are often requested to conduct research on hydraulic structures that are planned for site-specific locations. Find out more about the site-specific research we have conducted and how we may be able to assist you!
Scientists at the USDA-ARS Agroclimate and Hydraulic Engineering Research Unit develop design criteria, engineering tools, methodologies, and standards to aid in the safe, economical rehabilitation of flood control structures, grade stabilization structures, and channels.
The USDA-ARS Agroclimate and Hydraulic Engineering staff provide outreach, educational opportunities, and technology transfer annually. Find out more about our outreach and education programs!
Mission
The mission of the Agroclimate and Hydraulic Engineering Research Unit is to take a holistic approach to 1) quantify interactive effects of land use, agricultural management, climate, and the water cycle on agricultural and hydrologic systems; 2) develop criteria for the analysis and design of conservation structures and channels for the conveyance, storage, and measurement of runoff waters; and 3) advance cloud-based technologies including decision support tools, computational models, and applications to evaluate and manage environmental, social, and economic sustainability.