Search the EPA Research Database

Project Search Result

Project Code [2013-W-MS-15]

This information is correct as of today and is updated from time to time by the EPA to reflect changes in the management of the project. Please check back regularly for updates.

Project title

Biological Quality Element validation for Tidal Freshwater Transitional Waters in Ireland

Primary Funding Agency

Environmental Protection Agency

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

University of Dublin, Trinity College (TCD)

Lead Applicant

James Wilson

Project Abstract

The absence of appropriate biological assessment methods for tidal freshwater zones is one of the main gaps in satisfying the requirements of the EU WFD and for sustainable development of TFTWs. The ecological assessment methods for rivers and brackish transitional waters have not been fully tested in TFTWs. The aim of this project is to validate the biological quality elements for TWs (WFD Annex V, namely phytoplankton, macroalgae, angiosperms, benthic invertebrates and fish) and to test other possible candidate BQEs (e.g. invasive species) for assessment of TFTWs. The project will review biological assessment methods used in the ecological assessment of TFTWs and test the current BQEs across a range of TFTWs in Ireland. From these, recommendations will be made as to their consistency with the normative definitions (Annex V) and as to which should be incorporated into a suite of biological assessment methods to assess the ecological status of TFTWs. The project will run for 28 months and will draw on a range of expertise from within TCD and external consultants. Stakeholders will be informed of the progress and outcomes through the website, a range of reports and a final briefing workshop. The major output will be a suite of BQEs for ecological assessment of TFTWs. These will be set out in detail in a Final Report, (including literature review, methodologies etc) as well as a shorter non-technical Summary Report from which a 2-page outline will be taken for wider distribution (e.g. stakeholders and others). The findings will be presented at an international scientific conference and submitted in a series of papers for publication. All will also be available on the project website, which will be set up at the start, regularly updated, and handed over at the end of the project.

Grant Approved

�199,885.99

Research Hub

Natural Environment

Research Theme

Improve our Knowledge on the State of our Water Resources and Pressures

Start Date

17/03/2014

Initial Projected Completion Date

17/07/2016