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Preface to the first edition

In embarking on writing this book on the principles and practice of hydrogeology, I have purposely aimed to reflect the development of hydrogeology as a science and its relevance to the environment. As a science, hydrogeology requires an interdisciplinary approach with applications to water resources investigations, pollution studies and environmental management. The skills of hydrogeologists are required as much by scientists and engineers as by planners and decision‐makers. Within the current era of integrated river basin management, the chance to combine hydrogeology with wider catchment or watershed issues, including the challenge of adapting to climate change, has never been greater. Hence, to equip students to meet these and future challenges, the purpose of this book is to demonstrate the principles of hydrogeology and illustrate the importance of groundwater as a finite and vulnerable resource. By including fundamental material in physical, chemical, environmental isotope and contaminant hydrogeology together with practical techniques of groundwater investigation, development and protection, the content of this book should appeal to students and practising professionals in hydrogeology and environmental management. Much of the material contained here is informed by my own research interests in hydrogeology and also from teaching undergraduate and postgraduate courses in hydrology and hydrogeology within the context of environmental sciences. This experience is reflected in the choice of case studies, both European and international, used to illustrate the many aspects of hydrogeology and its connection with the natural and human environments.

Kevin Hiscock, Norwich

May 2004