Observations are the cornerstone of understanding hydrological processes and advancements in technologies provide a great source of information. Yet, integrating these multiple sources of measurement into data-driven and physics-informed models remains a significant challenge in vadose zone hydrology.
Recent advancements in deep learning have opened new avenues for modeling complex earth system processes. This session will explore the cutting-edge application of deep learning approaches to characterize soil hydrothermal properties and to model and predict soil water, heat, and solute transport.
Therefore, soil processes can be simulated over different spatial scales, enabling reliable predictions of climate change, contamination, salinization, erosion, agricultural practices, and land-use impacts on soil and water resources.
We invite contributions on the following topics:
• Innovative observation techniques and technologies: New methods for measuring soil variables (e.g., soil moisture) and other vadose zone physical, chemical, and hydraulic properties.
• Data mining and analysis: Advanced techniques for extracting meaningful information from large and complex datasets.
• Data fusion and downscaling: Novel methods for bridging the gap between coarse-resolution data and fine-scale applications by downscaling techniques including machine learning.
• Model development and integration: Coupling of models with various observation data sources and the application of novel approaches like deep and machine learning (i.e., multiphysics-informed neural networks, closure term modeling with machine learning).
• Applications and case studies: Demonstrations of how integrated observations and models can address specific hydrological challenges and evaluate the impact of natural and human disturbances on soil and water resources.
• Challenges and future directions: Discussions on the limitations and opportunities for future research in vadose zone hydrology.
By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, this session will significantly advance our understanding and management of the vadose zone, a critical region controlling the flow of water, nutrients, and pollutants, and linking between atmospheric water, surface water, and groundwater.