Soil Physics and Hydraulics Laboratory

Lab Description

Soils form the top layer of the land surface. Soil degradation is a global problem. In this laboratory, we study the physics and hydraulics of soils to better understand:

  • How soil properties affect flooding and debris flow.
  • How water and heat are distributed and stored in soils.
  • How soils interact with climate.
  • How fire affects soils.
  • How water infiltrates through and evaporates out of soils.


Markus Berli, Ph.D.
Lab Director 


Desert Research Institute
755 East Flamingo Road
Las Vegas, NV 89119


Hydrologic Sciences