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Project title

Guidance for Regulatory Standards in Hydromorphology for Surface Waters in Ireland

Primary Funding Agency

Environmental Protection Agency

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

University College Dublin (UCD)

Lead Applicant

Jonathan Turner

Project Abstract

HymoGuide aims to provide recommendations for the setting-up of standards for hydromorphology to support the development of regulations in Ireland. This will be achieved through an integrated research design employing (i) critical review and synthesis of existing knowledge, (ii) data analyses involving the testing of methods, tools and datasets across a gradient of hydromorphological typologies and pressures, and (iii) stakeholder participation and engagement. The results from HymoGuide will support activities related to the assessment of hydromorphological pressures, build on current understandings of the links to ecology and specific biological quality elements, and provide an evidence-base for the implementation of mitigation measures as mandated by Article 11 of the EU Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC). Hydromorphology – a term that has gained momentum since the inception of the WFD in 2000 – describes the hydrological and geomorphological character and function of surface waterbodies (rivers, lakes, transitional and coastal (TraC) waters). HymoGuide is set within the context of the 3rd Water Framework Cycle 2022-27 and the pressing need to address hydromorphological degradation in Ireland, initiate its remediation and support Nature Based Solutions in future interactions with our aquatic resources. The 2018-2021 River Basin Management plan for Ireland stated that hydromorphology was a significant pressure on 24% of the 1,460 waterbodies that were ‘At Risk’ of not meeting their WFD objectives, and second only to Agriculture in terms of surface water pressures in Ireland. Furthermore, remedial measures such as the removal of barriers to fish migration, measures to combat climate change such as the installation of flood alleviation schemes, and the potential reform of existing legislation, require clear guidance on the standards for the regulation of these activities. HymoGuide will provide this guidance through an integrated suite of work packages drawing upon established literature sources, together with knowledge and best practice coming out of the Common Implementation Strategy and projects under EU FP7. In addition, HymoGuide will employ established methodologies, including focus groups, questionnaires and a workshop to actively encourage participation and engagement of stakeholders across Ireland. Alongside established agencies and organisations (e.g. EPA, LAs & LAWPRO, OPW, IFI, NPWS, Marine Institute, Coillte, Teagasc, Waterways Ireland, SWAN), the project recognises the importance of including key actors (e.g. environmental consultants, planners and developers) as well as the wider public (e.g. those represented by Rivers Trusts) in capturing direct experience, knowledge systems and perspectives. In so doing, HymoGuide aims to deliver guidelines and recommendations for standards that, alongside supporting the protection and enhancement of our surface waters, will encourage positive behavioural change to achieve these goals.

Grant Approved

�191,870.88

Research Hub

Natural Environment

Research Theme

n/a

Start Date

31/03/2023

Initial Projected Completion Date

30/09/2025