British Hydrological Society
The BHS exists to promote the advancement of the inter-disciplinary subject of hydrology in the UK.
- Date
- 17 June 2026
- Time
- 10:00 - 17:00 BST
- Location
-
Institution of Civil Engineers One Great George Street Westminster London, SW1P 3AA United Kingdom
This event has now ended
Overview
The 1976 drought remains one of the most significant hydrological events in UK history, reshaping water management, policy, and public awareness.
Fifty years on, this conference uses 1976 as a lens to examine drought resilience in a changing climate. The day brings together researchers and decision makers to revisit what happened, explore advances in water resource management, and assess environmental and societal impacts.
Sessions will address climate drivers, planning, and public engagement, before turning to future drought risks and emerging challenges. Through discussion and reflection, the conference aims to identify priorities, strengthen cross-sector collaboration, and inform strategies for securing sustainable water resources.
Keynote address from Philip Duffy, CEO, Environment Agency.
Other confirmed speakers:
• Helen Wakeham, director of water, Environment Agency
• Dr Glenn Watts, associate science director, UKCEH
• Prof David Hannah, deputy pro-vice-chancellor, University of Birmingham
• Dr Geoff Darch, head of strategic asset planning, Anglian Water Services
Selected slides and posters for this event are available below in Downloads.
Programme
09.30 - 10.00
Arrivals and registration
10.00 - 10.25
Welcome and keynote address
10.25 - 10.45
Session 1 - 1976 in focus
10.40 - 11.10
Break
11.10 - 12.50
Session 2 - Water resource management
12.50 - 14.00
Lunch
14.00 - 15:30
Session 3 - Drought: a socio-environmental problem?
15.30 - 16:00
Break
16.00 - 17:00
Session 4 - Discussion and reflections
17.00
Event ends
Downloads
Agenda: Drought Hydrology - 50 Years Since 1976
22 July 2026
Drought Hydrology Conference Posters
22 July 2026
Drought Hydrology Conference Slides
22 July 2026
Sustainable Development Goals:
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