WP 8: Investigating the additional stream types

Objectives

To supplement the aims of Workpackage 7 and the objectives of the project. To extend the coverage of existing or developing pan-European assessment methods and databases.

Methodology/work description

Additional stream types fulfil four roles. They will:

• allow specific stream types, characteristic of individual Member States to be included in the analysis;
• provide an opportunity to extend the range of existing European assessment systems (e.g. AQEM, PAEQANN);
• extend the range of sites at which the AQEM and RIVPACS field methods and assessment pro-cedures are compared;
• provide an opportunity to test alternative sampling / assessment methods of specific importance to individual consortium Member States (e.g. IBGN, IBE, PERLA).

The specific rules governing the number and type of sites to be sampled in Workpackage 8 are the same as specified in Workpackage 7. Altogether, additional stream types will be sampled in 9 countries. In contrast to the 'core stream types', only sites degraded by a selected stressor will be investigated according to their phytobenthos and fish fauna. For all sites the AQEM site protocol will be completed. Additional stream type field, laboratory and audit procedures will be the same as those adopted for Workpackage 7.

Overview