By Abdullahi Lukman
Researchers at The University of Texas at Arlington’s Water Engineering Research Center (WERC) are developing data-driven solutions to manage Texas’ growing challenges of droughts and floods—issues that threaten both communities and resources as the state’s population rapidly expands.
Established in 2024 with support from UTA’s Office of the Vice President for Research and Innovation and the College of Engineering, WERC brings together experts across disciplines to create sustainable water management strategies.
The center’s mission spans both ends of the hydrologic spectrum, from flood-risk modeling and infrastructure design to drought resilience and water-supply forecasting.
“Texas could see its population double by 2050, and nobody brings their own water,” said Dr. Nick Fang, WERC’s founding director and Robert S. Gooch Endowed Professor of Civil Engineering.
“We must plan for a future of extremes—sometimes too little water, sometimes too much.”
WERC is leading a major study across eight counties and 85 cities in the western Dallas–Fort Worth area.
The project aims to produce advanced floodplain maps, assess infrastructure like bridges and dams, and recommend strategies to maintain future flood levels consistent with today’s standards despite continued urban growth.
“With more than 130 new residents moving in daily, regional runoff could rise by 25 percent to 35 percent,” said WERC Program Director Jerry Cottor.
“Our goal is to ensure growth doesn’t outpace safety.”
Beyond research, WERC emphasizes education and collaboration. Students work alongside faculty and agency partners on real-world projects combining civil engineering, data science and environmental policy.
“We’re producing professionals who can turn research into practical, life-saving solutions,” Fang said.
The center has received grants from the Texas Water Development Board to study rainfall patterns, flooding and oil spills.
Core faculty member Dr. Daniel Li focuses on improving how communities interpret environmental data through artificial intelligence and communication tools.
“Information only saves lives when it’s understandable and actionable,” Li said.
WERC’s growing influence has been recognized by the Texas Legislature in Senate Bill 2, which names UTA among the state’s leading water and disaster research institutions.
Fang has also testified before the Texas Senate and House on flood preparedness following major state flooding events.
Looking ahead, WERC researchers are expanding their studies to include AI-based flood-warning systems, real-time reservoir monitoring and analyses of the energy–water nexus.
“Our vision is to make WERC a national hub for integrated water research—where science, policy and education converge to make Texas more resilient,” Fang said.
Founded 130 years ago, The University of Texas at Arlington is a Carnegie R-1 research university with more than 42,700 students.
As the second-largest institution in the UT System, UTA generates an annual economic impact of $28.8 billion and is recognized nationally for innovation, student success and contributions to North Texas’ economic and social progress.