Aspects of Hydrological Effects of Urbanization: By the Task Committee on the Effects of Urbanization on Low Flow, Total Runoff, Infiltration, and Ground-Water Recharge of the Committee on Surface-Water Hydrology of the Hydraulics Division

Urbanization both alters and complicates the natural hydrologic cycle. However, the effects are often not consistent, but depend on the nature and magnitude of the urban influence. The effects of urbanization on four aspects of the hydrologic cycle are examined: (1) Low flow; (2) total runoff; (3)infiltration; and (4) ground-water recharge. Both supporting data and a selected bibliography are provided. Inherent in the alteration of the hydrologic cycle by urbanization is the contamination by urban wastes, and the consequent pollution of the water resource.