The WATer and Environmental Research Systems Network (WATERS Network) will transform our scientific understanding of Earth's water and related biogeochemical cycles and human water use. Networked sensors, assimilation of high-frequency data and interdisciplinary experimentation will enable forecasting and management of critical water processes affecting and affected by human activities across multiple spatial and temporal scales. The WATERS Network will revolutionize the way we perform research and how we educate future scientists across disciplines, and it will improve the public's understanding and concern for the dynamic water cycle.

Water is critical to our nation's well-being, but this vital resource is stressed by multiple and sometimes competing demands—human consumption, agriculture, industry, recreation, and ecosystem needs. The WATERS Network, a joint initiative between the hydrologic science and environmental engineering research communities and funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF), will provide opportunities to advance our scientific understanding of water as an integrated resource. The Network seeks to address the following critical societal needs:

• New knowledge and solutions for continuing water pollution problems
• Reduction of the impact of floods and water shortages
• Engaging U.S. students and citizens to help solve these water problems

This planning initiative is run by the WATERS Network Project Office and supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and CUAHSI.

Any opinions, findings and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of  the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation (NSF).