ABSTRACT
The study of water, termed Hydrology, touches every aspect of our lives. In this work, we delve into the cycle of fresh water—how it is described, measured, transported, and finally used by both humans and ecosystems. We focus on the terms used by hydrologists and provide their physical meanings in order to help diplomats and policymakers understand the jargon and key elements of water as it moves from the oceans to the land and then back again. To illustrate the types of water issues facing society, we provide several detailed examples of the issues that policymakers, scientists, engineers, and diplomates are facing, which will grow ever more pressing in the future.
