Charting the evolution of ecohydraulics: a community perspective on skills, technology, training needs and challenges

Ecohydraulics requires the integration of diverse skill sets to understand the complex interactions among hydraulic, biological, and ecological processes in aquatic environments, particularly under the influence of natural and anthropogenic change. This article presents findings from a community survey conducted at the 15th International Symposium on Ecohydraulics and Fish Passage (ISE-FP 2024) and compares them to those of a similar survey conducted at ISE 2018, with a particular focus on early-career researchers. We examine demographic trends, perceived challenges within the field, self-assessed competencies across general, technical, and emerging skills and identify training needs, seminar interests, and emerging technologies considered relevant to ecohydraulics. While demographic patterns and disciplinary challenges remain broadly consistent with previous findings, South American and African participation increased. Both early- and senior-career participants report confidence in traditional skills, such as literature review, fieldwork, and numerical modeling, but lower confidence in emerging technologies, including machine learning, uncrewed aerial vehicles, and artificial intelligence. Participants highlight the need for improved training in these technologies, interdisciplinary collaboration, and soft skills. These findings underscore the evolving needs of the ecohydraulics community and the importance of adapting education and professional development opportunities to support innovation, inclusivity, and cross-disciplinary engagement.