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Project Code [2013-W-FS-15]

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Project title

Characterisation of reference conditions for rare or unusual river typologies

Primary Funding Agency

Environmental Protection Agency

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

University College Dublin (UCD)

Lead Applicant

Edel Hannigan

Project Abstract

Currently knowledge of the biological reference conditions for certain river types such as groundwater -dominated rivers, highly acidic rivers and lake ouflow river sites is lacking. As part of the Water Framework Directive this knowledge gap must be addressed to enable all typologies to be assessed accurately and fully intercalibrated. Previous research characterised reference conditions for twelve river typologies in Ireland (RIVTYPES project). The aim of this research is to determine if these so far understudied river types represent unique typologies. Data , both historical and collected during this project will be analysed with the dataset generated from the RIVTYPE project to investigate if the typologies overlap or are already defined within the existing 12-type river classification. If unique groupings are identified, potential type-specific reference conditions will be highlighted using habitat structure and biological and chemical characteristics. This will then enable full intercalibration to take place resulting in compliance with the requirements set down by member states. On a more national scale by understanding how systems such as groundwater and surface waters are linked it will enable better quality standards to be established.

Grant Approved

�159,996.20

Research Hub

Natural Environment

Research Theme

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

Start Date

13/01/2014

Initial Projected Completion Date

13/01/2016