Real-world field settings for valuable hands-on experience in aquatic biology, hydrology, geology,
and environmental science
The Texas Hydro~Geo Workshop is centered on the collection, processing, analysis, and evaluation of hydrologic and geologic field data. It serves as an excellent introduction for aspiring geology, hydrology, and environmental science students, as well as a refresher for seasoned professionals.
The Workshop was created to bring students and professionals together in a field setting for a hands-on learning experience. This is a special opportunity to work with leading researchers and practitioners from across the state and nation. Participants have the opportunity to explore many different techniques for collecting data from soil, rock, and water media. This includes drilling rigs, surface and borehole geophysics, stream gauging, water quality instruments, and much more. For those that will be taking week long or longer field courses associated with your degree program, some of the Hydro~Geo Workshop modules will give you an advantage ranging from field safety, field book data collection, rock identification, how to camp, etc.
Participants select from the various modules depending upon availability. Please note that participation may be limited in some modules for safety reasons, to maintain a high participant/coordinator ratio, or for resource protection. The Workshop also includes the opportunity for attendees to present Lightning Talks to the other attendees and presenters.
The Workshop takes place at and around Cave Without a Name near Boerne, Texas. Most activities will be centered at the campsite and pavilion.
View the 2023 Program
Be sure to download the program if you want the full document or save the link. Sign-up sheets with descriptions will be posted at the Pavilion.
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University Tabletops
University representatives will be present to discuss their undergraduate and graduate programs and opportunities in the earth and biological sciences.
The Workshop Offers
The one and one half-day Workshop provides the opportunity to work with leading researchers and practitioners from across the nation in specialized modules for collecting, processing, and analysis of field data.
- How to collect water, soil, and rock samples
- Calibrate and utilize field instruments
- Work with soil probes and water wells
- Perform surface and borehole geophysics
- Perform tracer (dye) testing
- Discharge gaging of surface streams
- Collect and identify aquatic biologic material
- Use GIS field mapping applications
- Karst feature evaluation
- Collect water level measurements
- And much more
Who Should Attend
The Workshop is open to all college and university students who are interested in the field of geology, hydrology, and environmental science.
Practitioners are also encouraged to attend to expand or refresh their knowledge.
Scholarships & Volunteer
A limited number of Workshop scholarship and volunteer positions are available in a “work-to-attend” format. In exchange for attending, you will provide assistance in helping to run the event. Work may involve setup, food handling, or tear-down at the end of the Workshop. For opportunities, contact Geary Schindel.
Keynote Speaker
Cynthia Delaney Palomares, P.G.,P.E. has over 30 years of experience as both an Engineering Geologist and Environmental Engineer. Her last position was as an Adjunct Instructor (retired), at Texas A&M University, Texas Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) in College Station, TX, from 2016 –2020.
Yodeling and Hog-Calling Contest
The contest is held in the Great Hall of CWAN after the Keynote Address Saturday evening. Because of its amazing acoustics, this is the same chamber used for concerts. Previous contest winners have actually hit the resonate frequency of some of the formations which causes them to “ring” back, and have caused the stream to flow backwards in the cave. Be aware that the contest is receiving international recognition and competition.
The International Year Caves and Karst
The International Year of Caves and Karst took place in 2021-22
Workshop Flyer
Download and share the Hydro~Geo flyer!
