Drought hydrology: 50 years since 1976
Learn about what happened during the extraordinary 1976 drought, how it still shapes our climate challenges, and discover future solutions
Drought hydrology: 50 years since 1976
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
Further speakers to be announced.
Learn about what happened during the extraordinary 1976 drought, how it still shapes our climate challenges, and discover future solutions
Drought hydrology: 50 years since 1976
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
Further speakers to be announced.
Good to know
Highlights
- 7 hours
- In-person
Refund Policy
Location
Institution of Civil Engineers
1 Great George Street
London SW1P 3AA
How would you like to get there?

Agenda
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Arrivals and registration
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Welcome and keynote address
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