Office of Sustainability

The Watershed Science and Management minor, administered by the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment, involves managing the availability, quantity, and quality of water. Many metropolitan areas and smaller cities rely on forested watersheds to yield high-quality drinking water supplies for their population. This minor supports well-trained and dedicated professionals that are knowledgeable in hydrology, climate, and water sciences. These professionals are needed to sustain our water supplies and ensure that this commodity is available to the United States and the world’s growing populations. The minor requires students to take courses that emphasize various aspects of watershed and landscape management and their effects on sustainable water quality and supply.

Students for Clean Water exists to raise awareness and funds to eradicate the global water crisis through education, awareness, and fundraising. The funds raised by Students for Clean Water benefit Neverthirst, an international ministry bringing clean water to those who need it, in addition to Auburn-area and nationwide charities related to clean water. Students for Clean Water’s fundraising events include the Carry the Jerry 5k, the H2Bowl bowling tournament, benefit nights and concerts, and annual Water Week. Each of these events is open to all Auburn students and surrounding community members.

Dr. Kelly D. Alley, an anthropologist in the College of Liberal Arts, explores successful wastewater reuse in India in her article “Parameters of Successful Wastewater Reuse in Urban India.” Water is essential for agriculture, industry, and human consumption in urban India. However, over the next half century, water availability during the dry season will continue to decline. Alley’s research examines the key parameters that enable successful wastewater reuse through four case studies. Alley’s research aims to increase the availability of water during the dry season in order to preserve northern India’s people, agriculture, and industry.