Topic outline

  • Water Supply Forecasting

    Credits: 2 PDH

    PDH Course Description:

    This course, which is based on a publication from the NRCS, provides an overview of water supply forecasting, a critical component of water management in western states of the United States that depend on seasonal runoff from snowmelt. This course describes the forecasting process, including the use of statistical and simulation models to predict streamflow, and the various products and tools available to water managers to assist in making informed decisions. Also discussed is the importance of accuracy in forecasting and the tools available to evaluate forecast accuracy. Additionally, the course describes the Reservoir Operation Guide and the Surface Water Supply Index as additional tools for water management.

    Topics:

    • Overview of Water Supply Forecasting
    • History of Water Supply Forecasting
    • Forecast Products and Procedures
    • Statistical Models
    • Hydrologic Simulation Models
    • Ensemble Streamflow Prediction (ESP) Technique
    • Forecast Uncertainty
    • Forecast Accuracy
    • Applications of Water Supply Forecasts
    • Reservoir Operations
    • Drought Management
    • Water Management and Planning

    To take this course:

    1.) Enroll in Course: Click below to enroll:
    (must be logged into your user account)


    2.) Study: Once enrolled, click below to begin the course:

    Download the Study Guide

    3.) Test: Once you've thoroughly read the course materials, please click below to take the final examination.

    Take the final exam

    4.) Certificate: A passing grade of 70% or higher on the exam, is required to receive the certificate of completion for this PDH course.
         NOTE: After the exam is completed, you will need to return to this page, in order to print (download) the certificate of completion.

    Print the Certificate of Completion

    Intended Audience: This course is intended for water resource, environmental, civil, hydraulic, land development, construction, and other engineering professionals whose job description may require a general knowledge of water supply forecasting.
    Publication Source: USDA NRCS

    Harlan Bengtson, PhD, PE

    • Topic 1