Immersed In Hydrology, Buried In Soils

This paper describes an interdisciplinary field course at the University of Georgia with the formal title: The Soils, Hydrology, and Geology of Georgia. The purpose of the course is to provide an in-depth, hands-on study of the physical environment of Georgia by examining the diverse geology, soils, and surface and subsurface hydrologic processes within the state. We visit mines, farms, forests, wetlands, rivers, lakes, barrier islands, and estuaries to explore the natural development of these resources as well as the influence of human activities on the environment. The course is offered during a three-week long session between spring and summer semesters that we refer to as the Maymester. Instructors from engineering, forest resources, soil science, and geology jointly teach the course along with guest instructors from other disciplines. The students come from diverse backgrounds (generally science-oriented) with a mix of graduate and undergraduate students as well. The emphasis of the course is on handson, experiential observation and learning in the field. General learning objectives for this course include: 1. Develop and understanding of the relationships between geology, soils, and water quantity and quality, 2. Appreciate the diverse nature of surface and ground water resources in Georgia, 3. Recognize the importance of Georgia’s natural resources to economic development across the state, and 4. Become familiar with regional water resources issues.