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American Institute of Hydrology (AIH)

Have you read the latest issue of the AIH Bulletin?

2025 Volume 39 | Issue 2 features a president’s message, updates on conferences, a new affiliate membership program, and the recipients of our DEI scholarship and professional awards!

Who We Are

The American Institute of Hydrology (AIH) was founded in 1981 as a non-profit scientific and educational organization dedicated to the certification and registration of professionals in all fields of hydrology. AIH is the only nationwide organization that offers certification to qualified hydrologic professionals.

OUR HISTORY

During the late 1970s and early 80s, a variety of regulatory and quality assurance requirements resulted in a great demand for services of hydrologists and hydrogeologists, a demand that could not be met by the existing number of professionals. Because of the concern that unqualified individuals would be hired to satisfy this demand, the need for certification of hydrologists and hydrogeologists was expressed repeatedly by individuals, consulting firms, and some state and federal agencies. After a lengthy period of consultations and discussions with leaders in hydrological sciences, AIH was incorporated in the state of Minnesota on March 3, 1981, by Sandor Csallany, Roman Kanivetsky, and Alexander Zaporozec. By providing a mechanism for certifying competent and responsible professionals, AIH aimed at strengthening the standing of hydrology as a science and as a profession. Discover our full history.

MISSION & PURPOSE

The purpose of AIH is to enhance and strengthen the standing of hydrology as a science and profession by:

  • Establishing standards and procedures to certify individuals qualified to practice hydrology in the areas of surface water, groundwater, and water quality.
  • Establishing and maintaining ethical standards to protect the public from irresponsible work.
  • Providing education and training in hydrology.
  • Providing the public and government advice and guidance about activities related to the hydrologic profession.

GOVERNING DOCUMENTS

Articles of Incorporation | Bylaws

Certification

AIH certifies hydrologists across the US using a standard yet specialized examination process. Unlike other certification programs, AIH exams focus exclusively on one’s knowledge and understanding of hydrology – testing expertise in the fundamentals, surface water, and groundwater.

Whether you’re just starting out or already a seasoned hydrologist, AIH offers a certification tailored for you:

  • Professional Hydrologist (PH) Exam – For experienced professionals ready to demonstrate advanced knowledge and ethical leadership in the field.
  • Hydrologic Technician (HT) Exam – For those with hands-on field experience in hydrologic science and practice.
  • Hydrologist-in-Training (HIT) Exam – For emerging professionals preparing for a career and future PH or HT certification in hydrology.

Benefits of Membership & Certification

Membership and certification through AIH offers a trusted way for the public, employers, and clients to identify water professionals who are recognized as meeting high standards of hydrology knowledge, demonstrating qualified experience, and conducting their practices ethically.

Key benefits through certification:

  • Distinguish yourself and demonstrate hydrology expertise.
  • Certification to perform duties specified by certain agencies.
  • Career development and advancement opportunities.
  • For hydrology-related expert testimony, AIH recommends engaging a certified Professional Hydrologist, whose credential signifies verified expertise and adherence to recognized professional standards—ensuring opinions that are credible, defensible, and admissible.
  • Eligibility for annual awards and recognitions.
  • Access to monthly webinars and other continuing education opportunities.
  • Access to publications including AIH Bulletin.
  • Networking with fellow PHs and HTs across the country.
  • Access to career development services.
    Professional leadership opportunities.