The working scope of this unit is on eco-hydrological processes in forested watershed ecosystems. As water or hydrological process is commonly recognized as a unique watershed ecosystem linkage, an integrated or ecosystem based approach is needed for both research and management. The unit promotes integration of various critical processes (e.g., forest carbon, climate change, hydrology, in-stream wood and channel morphology, water quality, aquatic habitat and biology) for improved forest and water management over spatial and temporal scales. Through academic conferences, meetings and study tours, the unit provides opportunity for exchanging information and knowledge, and for training students and young scientists.

The effects of forests on hydrology and other critical watershed processes are important topics for designing forest management strategies. In the past, more focuses were on small-scale experimental approaches (e.g., paired watersheds, runoff plots) to understand the processes and mechanisms. While these small-scale researches continue, the scope has been expanded to include more critical processes at landscapes or large watersheds. With wide application of isotopes, modelling, GIS and remote sensing technologies, research into addressing how forest management, climate change and hydrology interact at various spatial and temporal becomes feasible.