About Us

Edd Hammill

Welcome to the Department of Watershed Sciences

The Department of Watershed Sciences offers comprehensive educational opportunities for both graduate and undergraduate students in hydrologic and ecological sciences related to watersheds. Our faculty are experts in all aspects of water in the natural world and are dedicated to training students in the conservation, restoration, and management of aquatic ecosystems. Additionally, students can build skills in remote sensing and geographic analysis of the earth's landcovers.

Graduates of our programs become teachers and researchers at major universities, scientists and managers for natural resource agencies, and professionals with consulting and non-profit environmental firms.

The Department of Watershed Sciences is a leader in the science of ‘wet’ ecosystems, including rivers, lakes, wetlands, oceans, reservoirs, and the watersheds that sustain them. Our department offers hands-on field opportunities for undergraduates in marine ecosystems, rivers, lakes, and wetlands. We are deeply committed to conducting science that informs planning, management, and restoration efforts. Our diverse team of ecologists, marine scientists, hydrologists, geomorphologists, and biogeochemists is well-positioned to study and solve complex, interdisciplinary problems.

As one of the most productive research entities at Utah State University, we engage in a wide variety of fundamental and applied projects. Our research spans from the most remote and wild parts of the world to densely populated urban areas. We inform policy and management for some of the largest and most significant resources globally, including the Mississippi, Columbia, and Colorado rivers, the Mekong Delta, and the Great Barrier Reef. Some of the big questions our research groups explore include:

  • How do climate, geomorphology, biogeochemistry, and hydrology interact to influence biodiversity and species interactions at different spatial scales?
  • How do we best identify the 30% of the world’s oceans that are most valuable for conservation?
  • How can we best plan to manage Utah’s natural landscapes in the face of global change and population increase?
  • How have humans modified water, sediment, and nutrient dynamics? How do specific policy and management practices affect ecosystem health and resilience?
  • How can we most effectively and sustainably restore the structure and function of lake, wetland, stream, and riverscape ecosystems?

Logan, Utah, is situated at the foot of the picturesque and accessible Bear River Mountain Range, just across from the rugged Wellsville Mountains, about 80 miles north of Salt Lake City. Logan is consistently ranked among the safest small cities in America, and outstanding recreational opportunities abound in the nearby mountains. We are also just a few hours away from the red rock country of southern Utah, the wild Uinta and Wind River ranges, the Grand Tetons, and Yellowstone. The stunning views outside our windows remind us daily of our mission to better understand and conserve our natural resources.

Thank you for your interest in our department. Please do not hesitate to reach out to any of our faculty or staff if you have any questions.

Best regards,

Edd Hammill
Associate Professor and Department Head