About the Water Resources Research Institute of The University of North Carolina

• WRRI Staff
• Who We Are
• History and Mission
• Former Directors

History and Mission

The Water Resources Research Institute (WRRI) of The University of North Carolina was established in 1964 to meet North Carolina's water research needs. It is one of 54 state water institutes that were authorized by the Water Resources Research Act of 1964 to administer and promote federal/state partnerships in research and information transfer on water-related issues. A unit of the University system, the Institute is located at 1575 Varsity Drive in the Flex Building at North Carolina State University. Institute policy is established by the WRRI Board of Directors.

The mission of the Institute is threefold:

• to identify the state's ever-changing research needs,
• to motivate and support research by qualified scientists,
• and to provide for technology transfer.

WRRI receives federally appropriated funds through the U.S. Department of Interior,  state funding through the UNC system, and local government consortia funding to enable it to identify and support research needed to help solve water quality and water resources problems in NC. To formulate a research program responsive to state water resources problems, the Institute works closely with the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and other agencies. An Advisory Committee provides guidance and review.

A Technical Committee of university faculty representing many disciplines is appointed each year to review research proposals and provide expert advice on the technical merits and usefulness of proposals.

Research is conducted by faculty and graduate students of senior colleges and universities in NC. The Institute also arranges research partnerships and competes for federal, state and foundation grants and contracts. WRRI publishes reports on completed research projects and arranges for technology transfer from researchers to state agency personnel, local governments and others who can put the research results to work.

The Institute also sponsors educational seminars, workshops and conferences and provides public information on water issues through publication of a newsletter, listservs and on their websiteFindings from research funded by the Institute help local, state, and federal agencies make better decisions in managing water resources.

Former Directors

WRRI has had excellent leadership since its creation. Dr. Michael P. Voiland is Director. Staff Information

• 2005-2008: David H. Moreau, Ph.D.
• 1996-2004: Kenneth H. Reckhow, Ph.D.
• 1983-1995: David H. Moreau, Ph.D.
• 1977-1982: Neil S. Grigg, Ph.D.
• 1965-1976: David H. Howells