The Land Surface-Groundwater Nexus: A Case Study, Science, and Big Picture

Explore the compelling case study of Brownwood, a suburb in Baytown, Texas, that faced repeated flooding and land subsidence over a 24-year period. Delve into the complex interplay between natural disasters and human-induced environmental changes as presented by John Ellis, Supervisory Hydrologist at the U.S. Geological Survey. Examine how four hurricanes and three tropical storms contributed to widespread flooding, while uncovering the underlying cause of the subdivision's gradual but irreversible descent into the sea. Gain insights into the broader implications of this phenomenon for the greater Houston area and understand the critical nexus between land surface and groundwater dynamics. Learn valuable lessons from this hour-long lecture that highlight the importance of considering long-term environmental impacts in urban planning and development.