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Project title

Assessment of extent and impact of barriers on freshwater hydromorphology and connectivity in Ireland (ReCONNECT)

Primary Funding Agency

Environmental Protection Agency

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

University College Dublin (UCD)

Lead Applicant

Mary Kelly-Quinn

Project Abstract

The overall objective of this project is to harness the knowledge base and develop a validated methodology for prioritising selection of barriers for modification or removal to improve hydromorphology and connectivity in Irish freshwater systems. The research will be undertaken in collaboration with Inland Fisheries Ireland. A thorough review of the available literature related to freshwater connectivity pressures will be followed by an appraisal of methods for mapping barriers. Following identification of effective and efficient methods a number of catchments/sub-catchments will be selected for surveying and production of a geo-referenced layer of barrier structures in rivers and lakes. In the regional of 20 of these barrier sites will be selected and sampled for macroinvertebrate and fish, upstream and downstream, using both eDNA techniques and routine field methods. Hydromorphology will be characterised to inform assessment of both impacts of barriers and likely responses to their removal. Existing datasets will be consolidated and used in conjunction with the newly generated data to model the effect of barriers on ecology and hydromorphology. An economic analysis of barrier removal and other mitigation measures will be incorporated to produce a of a validated multi-criteria decision-making methodology to facilitate practical management decisions. The research will yield at least 15 peer-reviewed papers in high impact, international journals. A website will be maintained where progress reports and research news will be made accessible by stakeholders. A biannual electronic newsletter will be produced through the life of the project. It will be downloadable from the website and also circulated electronically to those on a stakeholder distribution list that will be compiled at the commencement of the project. Three PhD theses will be completed and the student will be skilled in applied freshwater science. A final technical and synthesis will be produced, the synthesis report will be particularly useful for communicating the research results to a wide audience. A validated methodology will be produced for multi-criteria decision making in relation to the removal, modification or design of new barriers, which will be of particular use to fisheries and water resources management. The training and engagement of citizen science will allow expanded coverage of the country and population of a geo-references GIS layer of barrier locations.

Grant Approved

�499,995.63

Research Hub

Natural Environment

Research Theme

Understanding, managing and conserving our water resources

Start Date

01/03/2016

Initial Projected Completion Date

28/02/2019