My Story
Hi, I'm Wayne Woldt, associate professor of Environmental and Water Resources Engineering with a joint appointment in the Department of Biological Systems Engineering and the School of Natural Resources. I have been at UNL since 1991 and recently joined the School of Natural Resources to contribute to extension education in water resources. My main interests include simulation modeling of conjunctive surface/groundwater systems, defining measures of hydrologic resilience, management of complex natural/human systems, groundwater demonstration models, onsite wastewater management and geothermal energy systems.
Some of my current and recent research projects include the following:
- simulation modeling of surface and groundwater interaction in a high performance computing environment
- GIS framework for hydrologic observatory research: development of a pilot hydrologic information system in the Republican Basin
- definition of watershed resilience from a multi-disciplinary perspective with consideration for hydrologic, socio-economic and ecosystem resiliency
- management and protection of community drinking water quality through evaluation of well head protection delineation methods
- development of methods to improve total nitrogen removal by enhancing oxygen transfer in small constructed wetland systems intended as on-site treatment systems for individuals and small communities
My main extension interests include the following:
- advancing the use of geothermal energy transfer systems utilizing alluvial aquifer groundwater for improved efficiency in high capacity heating and cooling systems
- development and implementation of a new water resources extension educational program involving a mobile, large format, water education system entitled "The WATER Machine"
- development and delivery of curriculum-based education for onsite wastewater professionals
I also teach groundwater engineering in the spring semester. This course is taught in an interactive, synchronous (real-time), distance education format, with a connection to the civil engineering department in Omaha. I am a registered Professional Engineer in Nebraska.