Research

Water Institute

The University of South Florida Water Institute leverages the talents of students and faculty from throughout the University to address complex water-related issues. The Water Institute facilitates innovative multidisciplinary research, education and public outreach efforts that assist public and private sector agencies and organizations within the State of Florida, the nation, and the world. The Water Institute develops inclusive cross-disciplinary partnerships with researchers, educators and external stakeholders that lead to a broader understanding of water issues and a resolution of water problems.

As an extension of our ongoing research programs, the Water Institute also offers services to public or private organizations looking for opportunities to augment the technical abilities of their existing staff as well as provide valuable training opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students. Students and staff conduct bathymetric mapping of lakes, streams, ponds and tidal creeks, submerged vegetation analysis (species, depth, volume, nutrient storage, etc.), wetland vegetation analysis, water quality sampling (physical, chemical and biological properties), and lake vegetation index assignment.

In addition to conducting research and providing technical services, the Water Institute also maintains several publicly accessible websites, including:

  • WaterAtlas - The Water Atlas website is a comprehensive data resource, eventually covering the State of Florida, that helps citizens and scientists alike make informed decisions concerning our vital water resources.
  • Water-CAT - A searchable database of Florida water monitoring activity that answers "who, what, where, when and why?" for water resource managers, researchers and citizens.
  • PlantAtlas - The Plant Atlas website incorporates standards-based data-driven internet technologies to disseminate plant information, images and distribution maps to the public.
  • TampaTreeMap - Mapping Tampa and USF's trees and growing a green future together. Tampa & USF Tree Map is a web-based map database of trees within the City of Tampa and USF campus.

Faculty

Shawn Landry
Kai Rains

Website

USF Water Institute