HydroDesktop

HydroDesktop is a powerful and free GIS-enabled desktop application that excels in the Education category, specifically under Science Tools. Developed by CUAHSI, the program is engineered to help users search for, visualize, and analyze hydrologic and climate data. This robust tool allows users to download time series data registered with the CUAHSI Hydrologic Information System, making it invaluable for both the hydrologic research community and water agencies globally.

Currently at its latest version, 1.7.3, HydroDesktop stands out for its versatility and ease of use. It supports a wide range of Windows operating systems, including Windows XP, 7, 8, 10, and 11. For those using earlier iterations, other versions like 1.7, 1.6, and 1.5 in addition to a variety of program file names—HydroDesktop_1_5_12.exe, HydroDesktop.exe, HydroDesktop_1_4.exe, HydroDesktop_1_5.exe, and HydroDesktop_1_6_13.exe—are also available.

Users often search for keywords like "HydroDesktop latest version" and "free GIS-enabled desktop application" when looking for such tools. The capability to download visual and climate data sets it apart, making it a go-to resource for researchers and data curators.

Pros:

• Free and open-source application.
• Comprehensive features for downloading and analyzing hydrologic data.
• Supports a wide range of Windows operating systems.
• Backed by the reputable CUAHSI.

Cons:

• The interface may appear outdated to some users.
• Steeper learning curve for beginners in GIS applications.

You may want to check out more software, such as Wintree, PolicyMaker or FSAcars, which might be similar to HydroDesktop.