Karst Hydrology - Signal Processing

These karst hydrosystems account for a significant proportion of the groundwater that supplies the population in France, as well as throughout the Mediterranean basin. They also play a major role in the so-called Cévennes-type floods (or those occurring in the Mediterranean basin), particularly in terms of their management. Another characteristic of these hydrosystems is the significant interaction between surface water and groundwater: whether in the form of localized active seepage in rivers, which directly feeds the associated karst aquifer, or major karst springs that give rise to streams or rivers.                                       This course unit will provide an overview of these hydrosystems, their functioning, and the methods used to study them. The topic of “Surface Water–Groundwater Interaction” will be a particular focus of this course unit, through the study of:

• Artificial Traces: Techniques, Methods of Creation (Theoretical and Practical), Methods of Analysis and Interpretation. Artificial Traces
• Signal processing and rainfall-runoff modeling, particularly of runoff from karst springs that feed streams and rivers.

These courses will consist of lectures as well as lab sessions involving the analysis of data from artificial tracer experiments and the processing of spring discharge signals. A full-day field trip will provide an opportunity to conduct various experiments on a karst hydrological system, specifically an artificial tracer experiment.

The objective of this course unit is to develop proficiency in the use of artificial tracer and signal processing tools through the study of karst hydrosystems, which play a major role in the study of groundwater and surface water resources, particularly in France and the Mediterranean region.

Have acquired a foundation in hydrogeology and hydrology from the M1 Water Resources program (have successfully completed course units equivalent to “Water Cycle,” “Functioning of Hydrosystems,” and “Hydrodynamics” from the M1 program)

Assessment consists of a lab grade (ongoing assessment in the form of a report or presentation of work completed in the lab) and a final exam grade covering the theoretical concepts addressed in the course unit.