You are certainly aware of the continued efforts of a group of hydrologists, with the lead of Keith Beven, to shed light on the history of hydrology, including the History of Hydrology Wiki . Looking back to those who shaped our science, the questions they addressed and those that remain open is essential to understand the role of hydrology in earth system sciences, in the development of field research methods and modelling approaches. We would like to give a quick overview of ongoing activities:
History of Hydrology at EGU 2025: session and splinter meeting
For those of you interested in the History of Hydrology there will be a special session at EGU2025 organised by the IAHS History of Hydrology Working Group. The Conveners are Okke Batelaan, Stacey Archfield, Keith Beven, Fabrizio Fenizia, Cristina Prieto.
Topics of interest include the history of hydrological models and modelling, including deterministic vs stochastic approaches, optimisation, and diagnostic metrics; land-mark hydrological projects, the management of historical datasets or experimental catchments and their management, and the significant contributions of scientists, especially female hydrologists and other under-represented groups, as well as institutes and organisations. We encourage contributions from countries that are underrepresented in the historical hydrological literature as well as any contributions that examine the evolution of hydrological concepts over time, how overlooked methods might hold contemporary value, and reflect on the factors that have led to incorrect conclusions, i.e. learning from past mistakes. A more detailed description of the session and the link for abstract submission can be found here in the call for abstracts.
There will also be a lunchtime splinter group meeting at EGU (SPM29, in room 2.97 on Thursday from 12.45) to discuss how the Working Group can progress its various Tasks. Everyone interested is welcome, you do not have to have signed up for the Working Group (but can do so by mailing [email protected]).
Special Collection of Hydrological Sciences Journal – still open for submission
The IAHS Working Group has also organised a Special Collection of papers on the History of Hydrology following the IAHS General Assembly in Berlin last year. Some papers in the collection have already appeared in the Hydrological Sciences Journal and can be found at this link but the deadline for the submission has been extended to September 2025. The call for papers and details of how to submit may be found there.
History of Hydrology Video Interviews – you can participate!
John Rodda interviewed by Keith Beven at CEH Wallingford in 2018
Many of you will already have heard of the recent passing of John Rodda. Fortunately, as part of the History of Hydrology initiative we were able to record a video interview with him back in 2018. The full list of interviews can be found on Youtube @historyofhydrologyintervie846 , together with links to those recorded by the Hydrogeologist Time Capsule and the Interpore Time Capsule. We hope to organise some more interviews at the EGU General Assembly 2025. If you might be interested in recording an interview with a hydrologist with an interesting story then please contact [email protected].
