Puerto Rico Water Resources and Environmental Research Institute
Puerto Rico Water Resources and Environmental Research Institute

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Puerto Rico Water Resources and Environmental Research Institute
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Who We Are

The Puerto Rico Water Resources and Environmental Research Institute (PRWRERI) is among 54 prestigious institutes in the United States, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, and Guam/Federated States of Micronesia. With over 60 years of experience, the Institute conducts basic and applied research to solve water and environmental problems unique to Puerto Rico. The Institute facilitates and fosters the entry of new scientists into the water resources field and the education and training of future scientists, engineers, and technicians. Our mission involves exploring new ideas, expanding our understanding of water-related phenomena, and sharing research results with water managers, professionals, and the public. We have developed extensive expertise in the field, making us a trusted consultant to various government agencies, municipalities, federal entities, and public and private corporations. Our dedication and hard work set the standard for future generations in sustainable water and environmental management. Please explore our website and contact us if you have any questions.

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Puerto Rico Water Resources and Environmental Research Institute

Researchers

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Dr. Walter Silva Araya

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Dr. Salvador F. Acuna-Guzman

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Dra. Madga Latorre-Esteves

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Dr. Oscar Marcelo Suarez

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Dr. Pedro J. Resto Irizarry

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Dr. Matías Cafaro

Most recent projects

Puerto Rico Water Resources and Environmental Research Institute
PWRERI

Rapid, Portable and Low-Cost Water Quality Sensor Using Artificial Intelligence

The project addresses the limitations of traditional water treatment methods by employing artificial intelligence, rapid-prototyping, and biodetection techniques to detect Enterococcus faecalis and Escherichia coli in water samples. Traditional methods are costly, time-consuming, and reliant on trained personnel and equipment, with results taking days and water quality conditions potentially changing during analysis.

PWRERI

Installation and assessment of an in-field runoff collector to investigate water erosion in Southwestern Puerto Rico

Soil erosion is a significant threat that challenges agroecosystem sustainability, especially in tropical regions with intense precipitation. Puerto Rico is vulnerable to extreme weather events due to its geographical location.

PWRERI

Market Solutions for Water Sustainability in Puerto Rico

Potable water is essential for the health and quality of life of communities. In Puerto Rico, access to clean and reliable drinking water has been particularly challenging in recent years.

News

Puerto Rico Water Resources and Environmental Research Institute

Tourist influx turns Windermere green, researchers say

A UK Space Agency-funded report links high visitor numbers to algal blooms in Windermere, one of England's largest lakes. These blooms, driven by high temperatures and nutrient levels, can turn the water green and toxic, reducing oxygen levels in the water and killing fish and aquatic life. Activists attribute these blooms to nutrient-rich sewage discharges.

Waterlogged soils can give hurricanes new life after they arrive on land.

Recent research has shown that waterlogged soils can rejuvenate hurricanes after they make landfall, a phenomenon known as the "brown ocean effect." This effect, observed during Hurricane Florence in 2018, occurs when a storm passes over warm, saturated ground, receiving a boost of water and heat similar to the ocean's fueling mechanism. This discovery, first described in 2013, was confirmed through satellite data and highlights the importance of soil moisture and temperature in storm intensification. As a result, forecasters may improve predictions of inland hurricane behavior, helping to better prepare and protect affected communities.

Puerto Rico Water Resources and Environmental Research Institute

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