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Project Code [2002-W-DS-9]
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Project title
Hydromorphology of Rivers
Primary Funding Agency
Environmental Protection Agency
Co-Funding Organisation(s)
n/a
Lead Organisation
Central Fisheries Board
Lead Applicant
Philip McGinnity
Project Abstract
This study was funded by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under contract no. 2002-W-DS-9-M1 of the Environmental Research Technology and Development Initiative (ERTDI) sub-measure of the Productive Sector Operational Programme of the National Development Plan 2000-2006. This ERTDI programme addresses priority areas necessary for the implementation of the Water Framework Directive (WFD) in Ireland.The Water Framework Directive (WFD) establishes a comprehensive basis for the management of water resources in the E.U. The priorities of the WFD are to prevent further deterioration of and to protect and enhance the status of water resources and to promote sustainable water use based on long-term protection of water resources. The key objective of the WFD is to attain or maintain the existing good status in all unmodified waters by 2015. In the case of surface waters good status refers to biological chemical and hydro-morphological aspects of water quality. Good status is assigned to situations where conditions show only minor changes compared to the natural state of the water body.Assessment of hydro-morphological features is a new concept in the context of monitoring aquatic conditions and work is needed to devise a scheme for such an assessment in Irish streams and rivers.The objective of this desk study was to develop a practical methodology for the assessment of river morphological conditions in Irish rivers which takes account of the guidance from the WFD implementation activities of the European Commission national expertise and other forms of international best practice. The analysis undertaken includes a review of 29 different river morphology (habitat) assessment systems and consultations with Irish practitioners in the field.
Grant Approved
�49,648.00
Research Hub
Natural Environment
Research Theme
Improve our Knowledge on the State of our Water Resources and Pressures
Initial Projected Completion Date
n/a