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A groundbreaking study published in Science by researchers from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and the University of Cincinnati has unveiled a new era in river monitoring. This research marks a significant advancement in our understanding of river ecosystems by mapping 35 years of river changes on a global scale for the first time. The collaboration among hydrologists has revealed a concerning shift in river flow patterns: downstream rivers are experiencing a decline in water flow, while smaller upstream rivers have seen an increase.

The core of this transformative research lies in the innovative use of supercomputer modeling and satellite data to assess river flow rates across 3 million stream reaches worldwide. This advanced approach enables researchers to monitor every river, every day, everywhere, over the span of 35 years, providing a comprehensive and real-time insight into the evolution of our rivers.

Lead author Dongmei Feng, an assistant professor at the University of Cincinnati, and co-author Colin Gleason, the Armstrong Professional Development Professor of civil and environmental engineering at UMass Amherst, have paved the way for a deeper understanding of how rivers respond to various factors, including climate change and human intervention. By utilizing the power of supercomputers, they have accessed a wealth of previously unavailable data, shedding light on the complex dynamics of river systems.

This study's optimistic tone lies in its significant potential for informed decision-making and sustainable resource management. By identifying specific changes in river flow rates, communities worldwide can better prepare for disruptions in water supply, mitigate the impact of floods, and plan for future hydropower development. The data generated from this supercomputer modeling highlights the challenges we face and provides practical insights into how we can adapt and thrive in a changing environment.

Furthermore, this research highlights the critical role that advanced technology plays in addressing complex environmental issues. Integrating large-scale computation, modeling, data assimilation, remote sensing, and innovative geomorphic theory has allowed researchers to present a comprehensive view of global river landscapes. This optimistic outlook marks a new chapter in hydrological research, where supercomputers serve as powerful tools for transformation and progress.

As we embark on this journey of discovery and innovation, the hopeful spirit of this study fuels our collective efforts to safeguard our rivers, protect our ecosystems, and build a more sustainable future for generations to come. With supercomputer modeling leading the way, the possibilities are endless, and the potential for positive change is within reach.

The NASA Terrestrial Hydrology, Early Career Investigator, and Surface Water and Ocean Topography Programs supported this research.