Welcome to the USDA-Agricultural Research Service Hydraulic Engineering Research Unit (HERU). The HERU has a one of a kind facility and outstanding staff who conduct research on large scale physical models of hydraulic structures for flood control, grade stabilization, sediment control, and runoff measurement. Find out more about us!
Since 1940, the USDA-ARS Hydraulic Engineering Research Unit has provided hydraulic engineering research supporting conservation practices and the USDA Small Watershed Program. Find out more about our history!
Scientists at the USDA-ARS 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 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 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 Hydraulic Engineering Research Unit have provided research on a variety of topics including grassed waterways, grade stabilization structures, inlet trash guards for principal spillways, plunge pool basins, and vegetated auxiliary waterways. Find out more about this research under the Research Topics tab above!
Scientists at the USDA-ARS 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. Find out more about technology transfer!
The USDA-ARS 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 Hydraulic Engineering Research Unit is to 1) develop criteria for design and analysis of safe, economical structures and channels for the conveyance, storage, disposal, and measurement of runoff water; 2) develop basic knowledge of the hydraulics of surface water flows for use in planning measures needed for environmentally appropriate control of runoff water and/or assessing the safety and efficiency of existing measures; and 3) determine the ability of vegetation, riprap, and/or various manufactured materials to protect hydraulic structures and channels from erosion.
Current Research
Services
