Engineering the Flow: A Beginner’s Guide to Hydraulic & Hydrologic Modeling

At Artsy Valley, we celebrate rivers, mountains, and the wild places that inspire both art and adventure. But behind the beauty of a flowing river or a clear mountain stream lies something just as fascinating: the science of water.

As an environmental engineer, I’ve spent years learning how we model, design, and protect the water systems that shape our landscapes. That passion for water inspired me to create the Comprehensive Guide for New Hydraulic & Hydrologic Modelers — a resource designed for students, graduates, and early-career engineers who want to turn their curiosity about water into practical skills.

How It Connects to the Outdoors

When you hike along a stream, raft down rapids, or see stormwater rushing through a city street, you’re witnessing hydraulic and hydrologic processes in action. Modeling those systems allows engineers to:

• Predict flooding in mountain valleys
• Design stormwater systems that protect our communities
• Ensure rivers and habitats stay healthy for wildlife (and us!)

This guide takes those natural processes and shows you how to understand them through engineering tools.

What’s Inside the Guide

• 🌊 Introduction to Water Modeling – Breaks down hydrology vs. hydraulics in simple terms.
• 🛠️ Software to Know – The tools professionals use for stormwater, wastewater, and water supply projects.
• 📈General model processes from start to finish – Practical examples for stormwater, potable and wastewater distribution systems.
• 🌍 Real-World Connections – How modeling impacts communities, rivers, and ecosystems.

Why I Made This Resource

Much like creating art or designing a shirt, engineering water systems is about blending creativity and technical skill. I wanted to give new engineers a guide that makes the complex feel approachable — just like how we try to make nature feel wearable through Artsy Valley designs.

Get the Guide

If you’re curious about water, engineering, and how we use modeling to shape the world around us, check out the guide here: 

Comprehensive Guide for New Hydraulic and Hydrologic Modelers

At Artsy Valley, we’re all about celebrating rivers and mountains — whether through art, adventure, or engineering. This guide is my way of connecting that passion to the technical side of what makes water flow.