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      • Trusted Partner
        Limnology (freshwater)
        December 2005

        Land Use Changes in Tropical Watersheds

        Evidence, Causes and Remedies

        by Edited by Ian Coxhead, Gerald E Shively

        This book studies land use change in tropical landscapes, with particular emphasis on the economic processes that influence rates of land degradation and forest clearing. Multidisciplinary contributions draw lessons from a rich, decade-long collection of economic, social and environmental data on the Manupali upland watershed in the southern Philippines. Through this detailed case study the book documents forces leading to land use changes, in particular the potential impacts of institutional evolution and policy reforms, and highlights interrelationships between biological, economic, and social phenomena.

      • Trusted Partner
        Limnology (freshwater)
        April 2005

        Irrigation and Drainage Performance Assessment

        Practical Guidelines

        by Marinus G Bos, Martin Burton, David J Molden

        Effective irrigation and drainage systems are essential if growing demands for water resources are to be met. For the use of water for irrigation to be improved we must understand current levels of performance. This book draws together the growing body of knowledge on irrigation and drainage performance assessment that has been gained over the last twenty years. It provides guidelines for practitioners to enable them to design and carry out performance assessment and implement performance-based management. Developed by a working group of the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID) it provides a generic framework for performance assessment with guidance on the theory and practice of how to audit and assess the performance of irrigation and drainage schemes.

      • Trusted Partner
        Limnology (freshwater)
        February 2005

        Irrigation and River Basin Management

        Options for Governance and Institutions

        by Edited by Mark Svendsen

        With increasing water scarcity, pressure to re-allocate water from agriculture to other uses mounts, along with a need to put in place institutional arrangements to promote 'higher value' uses of water. Many developing countries are now experimenting with establishing new institutional arrangements for managing water at the river basin level.This book, based on research by IWMI and others, reviews basin management in six developed and developing countries. It describes and applies a functional theory of river basin management, based on the idea that there is a minimum set of functions required to manage basins effectively and a set of basic conditions that enable effective management institutions to emerge. The book examines the experiences of both developed and developing countries in order to see what lessons can be learned and to identify what constitutes the core of a 'theory of river basin management'. It concludes that although it is difficult for developing countries to adopt approaches and institutional designs directly from developed countries, basic principles and lessons are transferable.

      • Trusted Partner
        Limnology (freshwater)
        December 2004

        Organic Phosphorus in the Environment

        by Edited by Benjamin L Turner, Emmanuel Frossard, Darren S Baldwin

        Organic phosphorus is involved in almost every biological process. Organic forms of phosphorus often dominate in soils and aquatic systems and many organisms possess complex mechanisms enabling them to access phosphorus from organic compounds. However organic phosphorus remains the most poorly understood aspect of the global phosphorus cycle. This book brings together the latest research and opinion on the biogeochemistry of organic phosphorus from a wide range of disciplines and focuses specifically on the characterisation and transformations of organic phosphorus in terrestrial and aquatic systems. It examines analytical procedures for the chemical characterization of organic phosphorus in environmental samples, processes regulating organic phosphorus in the environment, and integration of the process at the ecosystem level. Ecological, chemical, microbiological and analytical aspects are explored. Written by a team of leading experts, the book will provide an invaluable reference for all those interested in organic phosphorus.

      • Trusted Partner
        Limnology (freshwater)
        May 2004

        Below-ground Interactions in Tropical Agroecosystems

        Concepts and Models with Multiple Plant Components

        by Edited by Meine van Noordwijk, Georg Cadisch, Chin K Ong

        This book provides a synthesis of plant-soil-plant interactions in agroforestry, intercropping and grass-legume interactions. It focuses on the process level, which is relevant to many types of multi-species agroecosystem. It also links basic research to practical applications in a wide range of systems with or without trees, and considers effects of global change on below-ground interactions. The contents include soil biodiversity and food webs, phosphorus dynamics and mobilization by plants, and crop and tree root-system dynamics. The book will be of significant interest to researchers in plant, crop and soil sciences as well as agroforestry.

      • Trusted Partner
        Limnology (freshwater)
        November 2003

        Water Dynamics in Plant Production

        by Wilfried Ehlers, Michael Goss

        In many regions of the world, water is scarce. This causes a problem in plant production, as plants rely on water stored in the soil to meet their needs; thus it is the principal factor limiting crop production.Water Dynamics in Plant Production describes the basic scientific principles of water transport in the soil-plant-atmosphere continuum, explains the linkage between transpirational water use and dry matter production and presents various agronomic strategies to adapt to climate water shortage.

      • Trusted Partner
        Limnology (freshwater)
        September 2003

        Soil Fertility Decline in the Tropics

        With Case Studies on Plantations

        by Alfred E Hartemink

        Wide coverage of soils and perennial cropping systems in the tropicsSynthesis of decades of researchChallenges assumptions on the benefits of plantations for soil fertilityIt is generally assumed that soil fertility decline is widespread in the tropics and that this is largely associated with annual cropping and subsistence farming. In contrast, perennial plant cover (as in plantation agriculture) provides better protection for the soil.This book reviews these concepts, focusing on soil chemical changes under different land-use systems in the tropics. These include perennial crops, annual crops and forest plantations. Two case studies, on sisal plantations in Tanzania and sugar cane in Papua New Guinea, are presented for detailed analysis. The author demonstrates that soil fertility decline is also a problem on plantations.

      • Trusted Partner
        Limnology (freshwater)
        October 2002

        Agriculture, Hydrology and Water Quality

        by Edited by Philip Haygarth, Steven C Jarvis

        This book is a collection of state-of-the-art reviews on the global problems of diffuse water pollution from agriculture, which affects the water quality of rivers, lakes, reservoirs and the oceans. It includes chapters on eutrophication, phosphorus, nitrogen, manure, heavy metals, carbon/persistent organic pollutants and soil/siltation problems. The book is broken down into three parts and reflects the opinions of the world's experts in these subjects.

      • Trusted Partner
        Limnology (freshwater)
        July 2002

        Crop-Soil Simulation Models

        Applications in Developing Countries

        by Edited by Robin B Matthews, William Stephens

        The use of crop-soil modelling has so far been mainly confined to the research community. Practical applications have occurred in the areas of decision tools for irrigation studies and pest management. However, there is potential to increase its applied use.This book reviews progress in crop-soil simulation modelling and assesses its application to agriculture in developing countries. It is based on work sponsored by the Natural Resources Systems Programme of the UK Department for International Development.

      • Trusted Partner
        Limnology (freshwater)
        November 2001

        Waste Composting for Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture

        Closing the Rural-Urban Nutrient Cycle in Sub-Saharan Africa

        by Edited by Pay Drechsel, Dagmar Kunze

        Rapid urbanization has created a major challenge with regard to waste management and environmental protection. However, the problem can be ameliorated by turning organic waste into compost for use as an agricultural fertilizer in peri-urban areas. This is especially significant in less developed countries, where food security is also a key issue. This book addresses these subjects and is based on papers presented at a workshop held in Ghana by the International Board for Soil Research and Management (IBSRAM, now part of the International Water Management Institute) and FAO. Special reference is given to Sub-Saharan Africa, with acknowledgement to experiences from other parts of the world. Contributing authors are from several European, as well as African, countries.

      • Trusted Partner
        Limnology (freshwater)
        September 2001

        Crop Science

        Progress and Prospects

        by Edited by Josef Nösberger, Hartwig H Geiger, Paul C Struik

        This book includes keynote invited papers from the Third International Crop Science Congress held in Hamburg, Germany in August 2000. All papers have been prepared and revised within strict editorial guidelines to ensure that the work is a balanced review text that provides an overview of the major issues confronting crop science today and in the future. It therefore represents a suitable advanced textbook for students as well as offering research workers concise overviews of topics adjacent to their areas of research. Contributors include leading world authorities from Europe, North and South America, Africa, Asia and Australia.

      • The natural world, country life & pets

        River Flowing From The Sunrise

        by James M Aton

      • Environment law

        Vranesh's Colorado Water Law

        by James N Corbridge Jr , Teresa A Rice

        Vranesh's Colorado Water Law is the second edition of the massive three-volume treatise written by the late George Vranesh and published in 1987. Editors James N Corbridge Jr. and Teresa A Rice have reduced the original work from three volumes to one, and they have substantially rewritten and reorganised it to make it more accessible for those involved with and interested in water law and policy. Colorado water law cases decided since 1987, along with relevant federal cases, have been included; statutory material has also been updated and discussed; and recent emerging doctrines in Colorado water law are analysed in detail, with appropriate citations. Much of the historical detail in the original work has been retained, but it has been shortened to increase the book's utility as a guide to Colorado water law as it exists today.

      • Limnology (freshwater)
        January 1985

        Safety of Dams

        Flood and Earthquake Criteria

        by Committee on Safety Criteria for Dams, Water Science and Technology Board, National Research Council

        From earth tectonics and meteorology to risk, responsibility, and the role of government, this comprehensive and detailed book reviews current practices in designing dams to withstand extreme hydrologic and seismic events. Recommendations for action and for further research to improve dam safety evaluations are presented.

      • Limnology (freshwater)
        January 1983

        Safety of Existing Dams

        Evaluation and Improvement

        by Committee on the Safety of Existing Dams, Water Science and Technology Board, Commission on Engineering and Technical Systems, National Research Council

        Written by civil engineers, dam safety officials, dam owners, geologists, hydraulic engineers, and risk analysts, this handbook is the first cooperative attempt to provide practical solutions to dam problems within the financial constraints faced by dam owners. It provides hands-on information for identifying and remedying common defects in concrete and masonry dams, embankment dams, reservoirs, and related structures. It also includes procedures for monitoring dams and collecting and analyzing data. Case histories demonstrate economical solutions to specific problems.

      • Limnology (freshwater)
        December 2000

        Investigating Groundwater Systems on Regional and National Scales

        by Committee on USGS Water Resources Research, Water Science and Technology Board, National Research Council

        Groundwater is a basic resource for humans and natural ecosystems and is one of the nation's most important natural resources. Groundwater is pumped from wells to supply drinking water to about 130 million U.S. residents and is used in all 50 states. About 40 percent of the nation's public water supply and much of the water used for irrigation is provided by groundwater. Despite the importance of groundwater as one of our most precious natural resources, an organized, effective program to provide an ongoing assessment of the nation's groundwater resources does not exist. With encouragement from the U.S. Congress, the USGS is planning for a new program of regional and national scale assessment of U.S. groundwater resources, thus helping bring new order to its various groundwater resources-related activities. The Survey's senior scientists requested advice in regard to the design of such a program. In response, the committee undertook this study in support of developing an improved program relevant to regional and national assessment of groundwater resources. This report is a product of the Committee on USGS Water Resources Research, which provides consensus advice on scientific, research, and programmatic issues to the Water Resources Division (WRD) of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The committee is one of the groups that work under the auspices of the Water Science and Technology Board of the National Research Council (NRC). The committee considers a variety of topics that are important scientifically and programmatically to the USGS and the nation, and it issues reports when appropriate. This report concerns the work of the WRD in science and technology relevant to assessments of groundwater resources on regional and national scales. The USGS has been conducting scientific activity relevant to groundwater resources for over 100 years and, as summarized in Appendix A, today groundwater-related work occurs throughout the WRD.

      • Limnology (freshwater)
        August 2015

        Affordability of National Flood Insurance Program Premiums

        Report 1

        by Committee on the Affordability of National Flood Insurance Program Premiums; Water Science and Technology Board; Division on Earth and Life Studies; Board on Mathematical Sciences and Their Applications; Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences; Committee on National Statistics; Division on Behavioral and Social Sciences and Education; National Research Council

        The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is housed within the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and offers insurance policies that are marketed and sold through private insurers, but with the risks borne by the U.S. federal government. NFIP's primary goals are to ensure affordable insurance premiums, secure widespread community participation in the program, and earn premium and fee income that covers claims paid and program expenses over time. In July 2012, the U.S. Congress passed the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform and Modernization Act (Biggert-Waters 2012), designed to move toward an insurance program with NFIP risk-based premiums that better reflected expected losses from floods at insured properties. This eliminated policies priced at what the NFIP called "pre-FIRM subsidized" and "grandfathered." As Biggert-Waters 2012 went into effect, constituents from multiple communities expressed concerns about the elimination of lower rate classes, arguing that it created a financial burden on policy holders. In response to these concerns Congress passed The Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act of 2014 (HFIAA 2014). The 2014 legislation changed the process by which pre-FIRM subsidized premiums for primary residences would be removed and reinstated grandfathering. As part of that legislation, FEMA must report back to Congress with a draft affordability framework. Affordability of National Flood Insurance Program Premiums: Report 1 is the first part of a two-part study to provide input as FEMA prepares their draft affordability framework. This report discusses the underlying definitions and methods for an affordability framework and the affordability concept and applications. Affordability of National Flood Insurance Program Premiums gives an overview of the demand for insurance and the history of the NFIP premium setting. The report then describes alternatives for determining when the premium increases resulting from Biggert-Waters 2012 would make flood insurance unaffordable.

      • Limnology (freshwater)
        June 2016

        Using Graywater and Stormwater to Enhance Local Water Supplies

        An Assessment of Risks, Costs, and Benefits

        by Committee on the Beneficial Use of Graywater and Stormwater: An Assessment of Risks, Costs, and Benefits; Water Science and Technology Board; Division on Earth and Life Studies; National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine

        Chronic and episodic water shortages are becoming common in many regions of the United States, and population growth in water-scarce regions further compounds the challenges. Increasingly, alternative water sources such as graywater-untreated wastewater that does not include water from the toilet but generally includes water from bathroom sinks, showers, bathtubs, clothes washers, and laundry sinks- and stormwater-water from rainfall or snow that can be measured downstream in a pipe, culvert, or stream shortly after the precipitation event-are being viewed as resources to supplement scarce water supplies rather than as waste to be discharged as rapidly as possible. Graywater and stormwater can serve a range of non-potable uses, including irrigation, toilet flushing, washing, and cooling, although treatment may be needed. Stormwater may also be used to recharge groundwater, which may ultimately be tapped for potable use. In addition to providing additional sources of local water supply, harvesting stormwater has many potential benefits, including energy savings, pollution prevention, and reducing the impacts of urban development on urban streams. Similarly, the reuse of graywater can enhance water supply reliability and extend the capacity of existing wastewater systems in growing cities. Despite the benefits of using local alternative water sources to address water demands, many questions remain that have limited the broader application of graywater and stormwater capture and use. In particular, limited information is available on the costs, benefits, and risks of these projects, and beyond the simplest applications many state and local public health agencies have not developed regulatory frameworks for full use of these local water resources. To address these issues, Using Graywater and Stormwater to Enhance Local Water Supplies analyzes the risks, costs, and benefits on various uses of graywater and stormwater. This report examines technical, economic, regulatory, and social issues associated with graywater and stormwater capture for a range of uses, including non-potable urban uses, irrigation, and groundwater recharge. Using Graywater and Stormwater to Enhance Local Water Supplies considers the quality and suitability of water for reuse, treatment and storage technologies, and human health and environmental risks of water reuse. The findings and recommendations of this report will be valuable for water managers, citizens of states under a current drought, and local and state health and environmental agencies.

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