Nicholas Pinter

Professor; Associate Director of the UC Davis Center for Watershed Sciences
Ph.D., UC Santa Barbara (1992)
3113 Earth & Physical Sci
npinter@ucdavis.edu | 530-754-1041
Geology

My research focuses on earth-surface processes (geomorphology) applied to a broad range of problems. Much recent work involves rivers, fluvial geomorphology, flood hydrology, floodplains, and watersheds. My research group applies fluvial geomorphology, hydrologic and statistical tools, hydraulic modeling, and other approaches to assess river dynamics and flood hazards. Although much current research focuses on rivers, I continue to work on a broad range of processes that shape the earth surface and operate, in particular, over anthropogenic time scales (yes, the "Anthropocene"). One pressing human application is for managing risk from natural hazards, and my group has worked extensively on quantifying those risks, guiding mitigation and other solutions, and providing a scientific basis for sound natural-hazards public policy.

Small Towns, Big Flood Waters - Climate change is bringing more water to people’s doorsteps, devastating communities. Entire towns are moving to escape rising waters. But, how do towns address these growing threats and still retain their sense of community? Flood experts at UC Davis are visiting dozens of communities to find out.

Grand Canyon 2016 - Each spring, UC Davis graduate students of geology, ecology and hydrology explore the Grand Canyon by floating down the Colorado River, splitting the 225-mile river journey into two halves. Join UC Davis students and faculty on their journey of science, education and discovery.