August 15, 2018

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN

Reference:  Paul Benalcazar's short-term study at the Visualab of San Diego State University

This letter is to certify that Paul Benalcazar spent the summer of 2018, from May 12 to July 31, 2018, as a visiting research scholar at the Visualab of San Diego State University. During this time, Paul initiated and successfully completed a study entitled "Application of the cybernetic hydrologic balance to three basins in California using GIS," which led to an online report of the same title.

Paul's work continued the development of the cybernetic hydrologic balance by applying it to real hydrologic (rainfall-runoff) data of three basins in California. The cybernetic method improves on the conventional method by using the concept of catchment wetting to eliminate the double counting, as not all infiltration may reach the groundwater, a fraction of it returning as evapotranspiration.

Paul performed his research duties with efficiency and efectiveness, completing the work in the time allotted, while performing other duties assigned to all scholars that visit the laboratory. In addition, Paul has a pleasant demeanor, which facilitated his contribution to the overall mission of the laboratory, which is to create and post relevant hydraulic and hydrologic research, for the benefit of users on a global reach.

Sincerely yours,

Victor M. Ponce
Director of the Visualab
Professor of Civil Engineering