UK UK05 Anglian R QE1-1 Phytoplankton CW Samples will be taken monthly. Sampling will be carried out using an integrated hose sample for all waters greater than 5 metres in depth. In waters of less than 5 metres depth, samples will be taken from just below the water surface, avoiding the surface film and without disturbing bottom sediments, using a simple sampling container. Detailed instructions at http://intranet/ams_document_library/2007/001_050/006_07.doc Phytoplankton and chlorophyll, samples will be taken from the same integrated hose sampler. For phytoplankton, the water sample must be transferred to a plastic bottle of at least 330ml and fixed with the addition of Lugols solution. The chlorophyll samples must be protected from warmth and light until filtration. Ideally filtration should be carried out immediately (and definitely within 4hrs of collecting the sample). Every sample must have associated salinity and temperature data. Winter nutrient data are also required. Phytoplankton The sample will be settled and analysed following the Utermohl method. All phytoplankton will be identified using the most up-to-date keys available. Taxa will be based on the UK WfD taxon dictionary provided by the Environment Agency. Identification will be to species level where reasonably practicable or lowest taxonomic level. Reference collection will be compiled and retained. This should consist of a slide or photographic collection containing examples of all taxa encountered. The specimens should be fully labelled stating the identification given and from which sample the taxa originated. Chlorophyll samples will be filtered and the volume filtered will be recorded and sent with the sample to the lab. The filters will be wrapped in aluminium foil and frozen to protect them until analysis. The laboratory will use acetone extraction and cell disruption method. pr EN 15204: Water Quality – Guidance standard for routine analysis of phytoplankton abundance and composition using inverted microscopy (Utermöhl technique) For the phytoplankton multi-metric overall 75% to 95% confidence in class is expected. A level of 80-95% confidence is expected for the chlorophyll sub-metric of this element (dependant on location and sample size), based on power analysis of historic time-series data. A level of 60-90% confidence is expected for the Elevated count sub-metric and A level of 60-80% confidence is expected for the Seasonal Succession sub-metric. A minimum of monthly sampling has been selected because: -Some sub-metrics look for a signal in the change in seasonality of various components of the community. -To obtain sufficient samples over a 6 year period to achieve good confidence of class. Historical time-series data was subjected to power analysis to estimate number of samples required. QE1-1 Phytoplankton LW Species composition: Samples collected monthly between June and September, at the same time and by the same method as for algal biomass determination. Preserved with Lugol's iodine to achieve a straw colour. Stored in a cool, dark place before processing. Algal biomass (chlorophyll a): Samples collected monthly throughout the year, from an appropriate point at the lake outflow, or from the lake shore or a suitable structure such as a jetty if access to the outflow is not possible. Representative open water samples are obtained by use of a “throw bottle” – a weighted bottle with a float, attached to a rope, which is thrown 5 -15m out from the shore to collect a sub-surface water sample from beyond the littoral zone. Samples are stored at 5C in the dark, and filtered within 24 hours of collection prior to extraction with acetone and spectrophotometric analysis. Bloom frequency: Observation is made of the presence and severity of blue-green algal blooms on four occasions between July and October each year, using a standard recording sheet and photographs. Note: the method of assessment is still under development and amendments may be made. Cell counts and taxonomic composition determined by suitably trained and competent staff using inverted microscopy ( Uttermohl technique). Chorophyll determined by cold acetone extraction and UV spectroscopy (665 nm absorption maximum of chlorophyll  and 750nm compensates for background turbidity)-Environment Agency, National Laboratory Service method A. Bloom frequency determined by visual inspection and completion of field observation record sheet. pr EN 15204: Water Quality – Guidance standard for routine analysis of phytoplankton abundance and composition using inverted microscopy (Utermöhl technique) Can achieve 95% confidence of a water body being less than good Biomass/chlorophyll-frequency and duration selected from knowledge of annual variability and practicality of site visits QE1-1 Phytoplankton TW Samples will be taken monthly. Sampling will be carried out using an integrated hose sample for all waters greater than 5 metres in depth. In waters of less than 5 metres depth, samples will be taken from just below the water surface, avoiding the surface film and without disturbing bottom sediments, using a simple sampling container. Detailed instructions at http://intranet/ams_document_library/2007/001_050/006_07.doc Phytoplankton and chlorophyll, samples will be taken from the same integrated hose sampler. For phytoplankton, the water sample must be transferred to a plastic bottle of at least 330ml and fixed with the addition of Lugols solution. The chlorophyll samples must be protected from warmth and light until filtration. Ideally filtration should be carried out immediately (and definitely within 4hrs of collecting the sample). Every sample must have associated salinity and temperature data. Winter nutrient data are also required. Phytoplankton The sample will be settled and analysed following the Utermohl method. All phytoplankton will be identified using the most up-to-date keys available. Taxa will be based on the UK WfD taxon dictionary provided by the Environment Agency. Identification will be to species level where reasonably practicable or lowest taxonomic level. Reference collection will be compiled and retained. This should consist of a slide or photographic collection containing examples of all taxa encountered. The specimens should be fully labelled stating the identification given and from which sample the taxa originated. Chlorophyll samples will be filtered and the volume filtered will be recorded and sent with the sample to the lab. The filters will be wrapped in aluminium foil and frozen to protect them until analysis. The laboratory will use acetone extraction and cell disruption method. pr EN 15204: Water Quality – Guidance standard for routine analysis of phytoplankton abundance and composition using inverted microscopy (Utermöhl technique) For the phytoplankton multi-metric overall 75% to 95% confidence in class is expected. A level of 80-95% confidence is expected for the chlorophyll sub-metric of this element (dependant on location and sample size), based on power analysis of historic time-series data. A level of 60-90% confidence is expected for the Elevated count sub-metric and A level of 60-80% confidence is expected for the Seasonal Succession sub-metric. A minimum of monthly sampling has been selected because: -Some sub-metrics look for a signal in the change in seasonality of various components of the community. -To obtain sufficient samples over a 6 year period to achieve good confidence of class. Historical time-series data was subjected to power analysis to estimate number of samples required. QE1-2-1 Macroalgae CW The macro-algae programme has 3 components: 1. Rocky shore macroalgae Rocky shores will be searched every 2 a years in summer to compare the macroalgae taxa diversity against a check-list of approximately 100 species. The surveyor will also record a shore description, including the dominant shore types, sub-habitats and dominant species, on a standardised form so that shores can be scored and compared. 2. Opportunistic green macroalgae (Littoral macroalgae blooms of opportunist algae including species of Enteromorpha, Ulva, Chaetomorpha, Pilayella, Ectocarpus and Porphyra.) Monitoring will be carried out once per year in the summer (June – August / September). The macroalgae bloom will be mapped to include the dimensions of the external perimeter of the bed (where cover >5%) by walking the boundary and using differential Global Positioning System (DGPS). Pre-defined representative transect lines (minimum of 2) will be established prior to survey, based on a preliminary survey or remote imaging. A minimum of 5 ¼ m2 quadrats will be spaced along each transect. The size of opportunist algal mats and the density of weed cover and its entrainment within the sediment, within each quadrat will be estimated. Where access to the bed is not possible, photographs of the affected area will be taken and linked to the aerial photographs or remote images as an alternative. 3. Fucoid extent The most upstream limit of Fucus ceranoides, F. vesiculosus and F. spiralis in transitional waters will be determined by surveying the inter-tidal zones at low water. Measurements, models or historical data will be used to determine the salinity range at this location. 1. Rocky shore macroalgae Taxa will either be recorded in the field or taken back to the lab to identify. The taxa data will be analysed to calculate proportions of : -red and green species -opportunist species -ecological status groups (e.g. perennials / annuals) Species richness and composition attributes will be compared with reference data. 2. Opportunistic macroalgae Percentage Cover The total cover within each quadrat to the nearest 5% will be estimated and recorded in the field. The main taxa present and their dominance, e.g. Enteromorpha sp, Ulva sp, Chaetomorpha sp, Porphyra sp, Pilayella sp, Ectocarpus sp. will also be recorded. Entrainment of algae in sediment Some algae may be covered in silt and be growing at depth within the sediment. This growth of entrained algae, and the depth to which it extends, should be recorded if possible. Biomass Algae for biomass samples will be removed from the quadrat using scissors, trimmed to sediment surface only. Algae will not be removed from within the sediment. Biomass will be determined by wet weighing. 3. Fucoid extent Species will be identified and recorded in the field and the position will be recorded in the field using GPS. Oppertunistic Macroalgae: The method used should conform to international standard EN 14996 Water Quality - Guidance on assuring the quality of biological and ecological assessments in the aquatic environment. Rocky Shore Macroalgae Reduced Species List and Fucoid Extent use Internal procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards. For Oppertunisic macroalgae 75% confidence of class can be expected. For Rocky Shore macroaglae RSL 85% confidence in class can be expected. Monitoring is once per year, once every three years however oppertunistic macroalgae can be monitored more frequently. Monitoring frequency will be reviewed for the 2nd River Basin Management Plan. QE1-2-1 Macroalgae TW The macro-algae programme has 3 components: 1. Rocky shore macroalgae Rocky shores will be searched every 2 a years in summer to compare the macroalgae taxa diversity against a check-list of approximately 100 species. The surveyor will also record a shore description, including the dominant shore types, sub-habitats and dominant species, on a standardised form so that shores can be scored and compared. 2. Opportunistic green macroalgae (Littoral macroalgae blooms of opportunist algae including species of Enteromorpha, Ulva, Chaetomorpha, Pilayella, Ectocarpus and Porphyra.) Monitoring will be carried out once per year in the summer (June – August / September). The macroalgae bloom will be mapped to include the dimensions of the external perimeter of the bed (where cover >5%) by walking the boundary and using differential Global Positioning System (DGPS). Pre-defined representative transect lines (minimum of 2) will be established prior to survey, based on a preliminary survey or remote imaging. A minimum of 5 ¼ m2 quadrats will be spaced along each transect. The size of opportunist algal mats and the density of weed cover and its entrainment within the sediment, within each quadrat will be estimated. Where access to the bed is not possible, photographs of the affected area will be taken and linked to the aerial photographs or remote images as an alternative. 3. Fucoid extent The most upstream limit of Fucus ceranoides, F. vesiculosus and F. spiralis in transitional waters will be determined by surveying the inter-tidal zones at low water. Measurements, models or historical data will be used to determine the salinity range at this location. 1. Rocky shore macroalgae Taxa will either be recorded in the field or taken back to the lab to identify. The taxa data will be analysed to calculate proportions of : -red and green species -opportunist species -ecological status groups (e.g. perennials / annuals) Species richness and composition attributes will be compared with reference data. 2. Opportunistic macroalgae Percentage Cover The total cover within each quadrat to the nearest 5% will be estimated and recorded in the field. The main taxa present and their dominance, e.g. Enteromorpha sp, Ulva sp, Chaetomorpha sp, Porphyra sp, Pilayella sp, Ectocarpus sp. will also be recorded. Entrainment of algae in sediment Some algae may be covered in silt and be growing at depth within the sediment. This growth of entrained algae, and the depth to which it extends, should be recorded if possible. Biomass Algae for biomass samples will be removed from the quadrat using scissors, trimmed to sediment surface only. Algae will not be removed from within the sediment. Biomass will be determined by wet weighing. 3. Fucoid extent Species will be identified and recorded in the field and the position will be recorded in the field using GPS. Oppertunistic Macroalgae: The method used should conform to international standard EN 14996 Water Quality - Guidance on assuring the quality of biological and ecological assessments in the aquatic environment. Rocky Shore Macroalgae Reduced Species List and Fucoid Extent use Internal procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards. For Oppertunisic macroalgae 75% confidence of class can be expected. For Rocky Shore macroaglae RSL 85% confidence in class can be expected. Monitoring is once per year, once every three years however oppertunistic macroalgae can be monitored more frequently. Monitoring frequency will be reviewed for the 2nd River Basin Management Plan. QE1-2-2 Angiosperms CW The angiosperm programme has 2 components: 1. Seagrass Sampling will be undertaken annually during the summer months. A littoral seagrass bed’s area will be mapped and a series of transects conducted for noting species and estimating percentage cover. The perimeter of the continuous bed (>5% cover) will be mapped by walking the boundary and using differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) or from remote sensed images that have been ground-truthed. A sampling grid will be designed prior to the survey. Available information on the location and extent of beds from remotely surveyed information or a preliminary site visit will be used to plan the shape and size of the grid of sampling points and the distance between points that will satisfactorily quantify shoot density. The % cover of each seagrass species within the quadrats will be estimated whilst in the field or from digital photographs and recorded on a standardised survey form, along with general details about the site. Subtidal seagrass will not be monitored until a method that does not require the use of divers has been developed and agreed. 2. Saltmarsh Aerial surveys will be undertaken to provide maps of saltmarsh extent. Ground truth surveys will be undertaken to confirm saltmarsh extent, assess the species diversity of the saltmarsh and confirm location of saltmarsh zones. The surveys will be undertaken at low water. The field survey methodology is still being tested and the classification metric is still under development. 1. Seagrass Species will be identified, and the percent cover estimated in the field. Quantitative comparisons of (1) taxonomic composition, (2) bed extent and, (3) bed density will be made with previous years’ data. A 5 year running mean of density will be calculated once sufficient surveys have been carried out. 2. Saltmarsh Species will be identified in the field. Overall saltmarsh extent and the location of zones will be digitally mapped using GIS. Percentage deviation of saltmarsh extent and zone sizes and presence from baseline values will be calculated each year. Once sufficient surveys have been carried out the deviation over a running 5 year period will be calculated. The method used should conform to international standard EN 14996 Water Quality - Guidance on assuring the quality of biological and ecological assessments in the aquatic environment. Seagrass Levels of confidence and precision are currently being determined. Not enough data has been collected to quantify inter-annual variation in many waterbodies yet but good confidence of class is expected once 5 years data has been collected. Saltmarsh The classification tool is still under development. Annual monitoring has been selected to gather baseline information on inter-annual variation Annual monitoring for Seagrass has been selected to gather baseline information on inter-annual variation and to increase levels of confidence. Saltmarsh is monitored once per year, once very 3 years. Monitoring frequency will be reviewed for the 2nd River Basin Management Plan. QE1-2-2 Angiosperms TW The angiosperm programme has 2 components: 1. Seagrass Sampling will be undertaken annually during the summer months. A littoral seagrass bed’s area will be mapped and a series of transects conducted for noting species and estimating percentage cover. The perimeter of the continuous bed (>5% cover) will be mapped by walking the boundary and using differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) or from remote sensed images that have been ground-truthed. A sampling grid will be designed prior to the survey. Available information on the location and extent of beds from remotely surveyed information or a preliminary site visit will be used to plan the shape and size of the grid of sampling points and the distance between points that will satisfactorily quantify shoot density. The % cover of each seagrass species within the quadrats will be estimated whilst in the field or from digital photographs and recorded on a standardised survey form, along with general details about the site. Subtidal seagrass will not be monitored until a method that does not require the use of divers has been developed and agreed. 2. Saltmarsh Aerial surveys will be undertaken to provide maps of saltmarsh extent. Ground truth surveys will be undertaken to confirm saltmarsh extent, assess the species diversity of the saltmarsh and confirm location of saltmarsh zones. The surveys will be undertaken at low water. The field survey methodology is still being tested and the classification metric is still under development. 1. Seagrass Species will be identified, and the percent cover estimated in the field. Quantitative comparisons of (1) taxonomic composition, (2) bed extent and, (3) bed density will be made with previous years’ data. A 5 year running mean of density will be calculated once sufficient surveys have been carried out. 2. Saltmarsh Species will be identified in the field. Overall saltmarsh extent and the location of zones will be digitally mapped using GIS. Percentage deviation of saltmarsh extent and zone sizes and presence from baseline values will be calculated each year. Once sufficient surveys have been carried out the deviation over a running 5 year period will be calculated. The method used should conform to international standard EN 14996 Water Quality - Guidance on assuring the quality of biological and ecological assessments in the aquatic environment. Seagrass Levels of confidence and precision are currently being determined. Not enough data has been collected to quantify inter-annual variation in many waterbodies yet but good confidence of class is expected once 5 years data has been collected. Saltmarsh The classification tool is still under development. Annual monitoring for Seagrass has been selected to gather baseline information on inter-annual variation and to increase levels of confidence. Saltmarsh is monitored once per year, once very 3 years. Monitoring frequency will be reviewed for the 2nd River Basin Management Plan. QE1-2-3 Macrophytes LW The method involves recording macrophyte species present in 3 different ways:Perimeter survey – along 100m stretch of shore, presence of plant material on the strand line, and emergent/marginal/amphibious species present between current water level and high water mark.Shore survey – along 100m stretch of shore, species recorded at 4 depths (0.25, 0.50, 0.75 and >0.75m) at five points by wading out and use of rake/grapnel and/or underwater viewerBoat survey – at mid-point of the shoreline survey stretch, transect perpendicular to the shore, from shore to maximum depth of colonisation, species present recorded at 10 equally spaced points along the transect.In addition to species presence, an overall biomass rating and assessment of filamentous algae is recorded at each point. Substrate, and transparency (Secchi depth) are also recorded. The analysis is based on a Lake Macrophyte Nutrient Index (LMNI) which awards values to species of submerged or floating leaved macrophytes. These values are based on an extensive dataset consisting of most of the recorded data for UK lake surveys. This, together with a set of environmental variables, is then used to calculate an EQR based on the plant’s response to nutrients. Survey data is accorded a weighted value that varies depending on the distribution of macrophytes in each water-body. Percentage cover for each species recorded is a mean of these values, and is used to calculate % cover EQR. EQRs for relative cover of filamentous algae, invasive alien species and number of functional groups are also calculated. Classification is based on the mean of the lowest two of these EQR values for each water-body. MACROPHYTES (LAKE LEAFPACS): The surveying method should conform to EN 15460 : 2007 Water quality – Guidance standard for the surveying of macrophytes in lakes. Can achieve 95% confidence of a water body being less than good Surveys are conducted between July and early September to coincide with the greatest expected variety and density of lake macrophytes, many of which over-winter as seeds or vegetative propagules. A minimum of one survey per year for three years is recommended, each being undertaken at the same time within the survey season to compensate for the natural range of variability in macrophyte species QE1-2-3 Macrophytes RW Surveys are carried out using the standard method adopted by the Environment Agency for the assessment of the trophic status of rivers. The method is also for the designation of Sensitive Areas (Eutrophic) (SA(E)) under the requirements of the EC Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (UWWTD, 91/271/EEC) and to aid in the determination of ecological status in the context of the EC Water Framework Directive(WFD, 2000/60EC). The method represents best current practice. This method is currently being adapted to fulfil the needs of the Water Framework Directive (WFD), however the sampling methodology will remain fundamentally unchanged. Only the number of species and the scoring system will be amended. The macrophyte flora and physical character of defined lengths (100m) of watercourse are surveyed. The presence, absence and % area covered by each macrophyte species are recorded and used to calculate either the WFD nutrient index or MTR score. All species in the defined survey stretch are recorded as well as a set of physical parameters that aid data interpretation. The location of survey sites varies according to the purpose of the survey. Less impacted ‘control’ sites may be used to help determine point source eutrophication impact. The survey samples macrophytes (plants identifiable with the naked eye), in rivers and streams. The survey is not suitable for standing waters, canals or tidal rivers. The survey is based upon the spectrum of tolerances to nutrient enrichment, which can be expressed by assigning scores to species on a scale of 1 to 10. In both the River Macrophyte Nutrient Index (RMNI) for WFD and the Species Trophic Rank (STR) for the Mean Trophic Rank (MTR) method lower scores indicate lower tolerance of nutrient enrichment. Survey data is in the form of qualitative (presence/absence) and semi-quantitative (estimates of % cover) records of macrophytes and physical characteristics. MACROPHYTES (RIVER LEAFPACS): The survey method used should conform to CEN 14184 : 2003 Water quality – Guidance standard for the surveying of aquatic macrophytes in running waters. Can achieve 95% confidence of a water body being less than good A minimum of one survey per year once every three years is recommended, each being undertaken at the same time within the survey season (mid-June to mid-September) and after several days of low or low–normal flow. QE1-2-4 Phytobenthos LW The method involves collecting epilithic or epiphytic diatoms from representative (at least 10 m strip) of littoral lake habitat. Samples are collected from cobbles where these are the dominant littoral substratum. If cobbles or small boulders are absent or the bed is dominated by fine sediments with only a few large stones, collect samples from submerged stems of emergent plants such as Phragmites australis, Sparganium erectum, Glyceria maxima or Typha spp. Phragmites australis is widespread in UK standing waters and should be used wherever possible. Phytobenthos material is removed from the substratum using a tooth brush and small amounts of water. Samples are preserved in Lugol’s iodine prior to slide preparation microscopic analysis27_01 Technical Reference Material - Sampling diatoms from rivers and lakes (version 1) http://intranet/ams_document_library/2007/001_050/27_07.doc 28_01 Technical Reference Material - Diatom sample digestion and slide preparation (version 1) http://intranet/ams_document_library/2007/001_050/28_07.doc 29_01 Technical Reference Material - Diatom slide analysis, recording and archiving (version 1)http://intranet/ams_document_library/2007/001_050/29_07.doc Centrifugation prior to chemical digestion of organic matter followed by preparation of slides. Microscopic examination and identification of frustules using the CD ROM based taxonomic key at 1000 x magnification. The diatom tool predicts reference trophic diatom index from alkalinity and altitude and the good/moderate boundary is defined by the cross-over of nutrient tolerant and intolerant taxa. Actual scores from the water body are compared with type or site specific reference values to produce an EQR and consequent status class.29_01 Technical Reference Material - Diatom slide analysis, recording and archiving (version 1)http://intranet/ams_document_library/2007/001_050/29_07.dochttp://craticula.ncl.ac.uk/Dares/AN INTERACTIVE CD-ROM FOR IDENTIFYING FRESHWATER DIATOMS – Available from Jane.jamieson@environment-agency.gov.uk PHYTOBENTHOS - DIATOM ASSESSMENT OF LAKE ECOLOGICAL QUALITY (DARLEQ): The sampling method used should follow the general principles set out in the standard method EN 13946 : 2003 Water quality – Guidance standard for the routine sampling and pre-treatment of benthic diatoms from rivers. The analytical method used should conform to EN 14407 : 2004 Water quality – Guidance standard for the identification, enumeration and interpretation of benthic diatom samples from running waters. Can achieve 95% confidence of a water body being less than good The diatom tool model regressions showed a best fit using sampling windows of April to June and Sept to Nov. It is intended to sample annually at surveillance lake water bodies until 2009. QE1-2-4 Phytobenthos RW DARES method (linked here). Summary: Choose a site at least 10m long with a riffle-run-pool sequence or run and glide. Collect samples in spring and autumn from at least 5 cobbles or small boulders that are permanently submerged and reachable with thigh waders. If cobbles are not available, use methods for man-made structures (C) or emergent macrophytes (D) or submerged macrophytes (E). Sample collection: Cobbles without significant filamentous algae Remove loosely attached surface contamination, place stones in a tray with ~50ml of river water. Rinse a toothbrush with river water and brush the upper surface of the stone to remove the diatom film, regularly rinsing the toothbrush in the tray to remove the diatoms. Repeat with the other stones. Transfer the tray water into the sample bottle. Cobbles with abundant filamentous algae Choose between 1-5 cobbles or small boulders depending on % algae cover and remove from the water. Wash the cobble and brush the upper surface of it (inc fil algae) with a toothbrush to remove the diatoms. Wash in tray water. Remove any filaments not dislodged and place in the sample pot. C Dislodge diatom film from the vertical surface to 30cm deep, into a net and bottle at 5 different places. D Collect samples from the submerged part of 5 different healthy plants of the same emergent macrophyte species. Ensure each is ~5 cm in length, with the lower end from ~ 20cm deep. Cut away excess stem then place a sampling bottle upside down over the underwater stem. Cut the stem, then turn the bottle plus stem upright. Brush diatoms from the stem into the bottle. Record plant species used. E Collect 5 samples from 5 different plants of same species/genus. Record species/genus used. Place stem and branches in bag with 50ml of river water and shake. Pour the brown suspension into a bottle and preserve. Preserve all samples with Lugol's iodine to achieve a straw colour. Store in a cool, dark place before processing. Algae are scraped from the substrate. The resulting suspension is collected in a plastic bottle, fixed with Lugol’s iodine and stored prior to analysis. Samples are either digested in a saturated solution of potassium permanganate and concentrated hydrochloric acid, or digested with hydrogen peroxide in order to remove organic material, and permanent slides are prepared using Naphrax as a mountant. Valves of non-planktonic taxa are identified and counted using 1000 ? magnification. By establishing site-specific reference conditions the relative ecological status of any sample can be quantified by relating the number and composition of valves to an optimum state. A standard taxon dictionary is used. The deviation from optimum state can be correlated with an increase in nutrients. The UK ‘Trophic Diatom Index (TDI)’ method is used. PHYTOBENTHOS - DIATOM ASSESSMENT FOR RIVER ECOLOGICAL STATUS (DARLEQ): The sampling method used should conform to EN 13946 : 2003 Water quality – Guidance standard for the routine sampling and pre-treatment of benthic diatoms from rivers. The analytical method used should conform to EN 14407 : 2004 Water quality – Guidance standard for the identification, enumeration and interpretation of benthic diatom samples from running waters. Can achieve 95% confidence of a water body being less than good A frequency of two samples per annum, with a return period of one in three years was chosen to fit in with the macro-invertebrate monitoring regime that has been used in England and Wales for two decades. Taking two samples significantly increases that statistical confidence by minimising several sources of error. QE1-3 Benthic invertebrates CW Soft sediment macrobenthic community analysis Samples will be taken once per annum, in early Spring [1st Feb to 30th April]. The monitoring cycle is once every 3 years. Sub-tidal samples will be collected by boat. The standard sampling gear is 0.1m2 Day Grab. Intertidal samples will be taken by hand corer. There are 2 standard sizes – 0.01m2 and 0.1m2. Detailed instructions at http://intranet/ams_document_library/2007/001_050/009_07.doc) Benthic invertebrate sampling is stratified according to EUNIS habitat type. Samples will be taken from matched stable, depositional habitats so that the variability in the biological communities from a defined EUNIS habitat from different geographical locations and water body types can be compared. Samples will be spread as widely as possible throughout the habitat in the water body, but outside of any ‘allowable zones of effect’. Imposex assessment Samples will be taken once per annum during the sampling season (June to September). The monitoring cycle is expected to be every 4 years. 40 specimens are required per sampling station. Hand collect at low tide, between spring low water and mid tide levels. Soft sediment macrobenthic community analysis Samples will be sieved using a 0.5mm sieve mesh in transitional waters and 1mm mesh in coastal waters. After sieving, samples will be fixed in 4-8% buffered formaldehyde for later laboratory analysis. All specimens should be examined under suitable magnification and identified to the lowest taxonomic level possible and counted. Any fragmented specimens should only be counted if the head is present. Other partial specimens which can be identified may be recorded but should not be used in any subsequent data analysis. Juveniles should be recorded separately as their numbers may introduce a seasonal bias to the data. Detailed instructions at: http://intranet/ams_document_library/2007/001_050/008_07.doc) Imposex assessment Measure: -Imposex stage for each female -Length of penis in males and females (to nearest 0.01mm) -Shell height (nearest mm) -Sex ratio (F/M) Benthic Invertebrate Infaunal Quality Index (IQI): EN ISO 16665:2005 Water quality – Guidelines for quantitative investigations of marine soft-bottom benthic fauna in the marine environment. BENTHIC INVERTEBRATE FAUNA DOG WHELKS (Nucella lapillus) - IMPOSEX ASSESSMENT: procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards. Soft sediment macrobenthic community analysis: Taking 15 samples equates roughly to being able to detect a change in mean IQI values of 0.1 with a confidence of around 75%. The confidence and precision at each site will depend on the inherent variability of the habitat sampled and the distance from the class boundary values. Soft sediment macrobenthic community analysis Historical data was subjected to power analysis to determine frequency required for high confidence assessment. Sampling once per year. Imposex assessment Monitoring of Nucella lapillus, to assess imposex, will use samples taken for OSPAR requirements. Therefore monitoring frequency will follow the OSPAR frequency. This is to minimise impact on dogwhelk populations from over sampling. Once every 3 years. QE1-3 Benthic invertebrates LW Chironomid Pupal Exuviae Technique (CPET)- With an extendable handnet, skim the surface of the water from the leeward bank or shore (where the wind is blowing to) without entering the water. The net will fill with debris, including exuviae, as it is dragged through the water surface. If necessary, the debris can be regularly emptied into a bucket containing water from the same site. In practice, sufficient pupal exuviae for the recommended method are likely to be obtained before the net is full of debris.Acid pressure lake macroinvertebrates. The methodology is a modification of sampling procedures implemented in the British Isles for the collection of river macro-invertebrates described in BT001 (Murray-Bligh, 1999a) and ISO 7828 (ISO, 1985). Many of the principles and procedures are the same but some have been altered significantly. The method is based on the collection of a single fixed duration sample from a station located in a stony area of shore and sampling is subdivided into active search and kick sampling the substratum. CPET: Use sieves and washing to produce a debris free sample of exuviae, remove aliqots to a Petri dish with a tea strainer and while viewing the dish contents through a low-power binocular microscope, all chironomid pupal exuviae should be picked out from the dish with fine forceps and placed in 70% alcohol. It is necessary to pick out all chironomid pupal exuviae. Take small subsamples of around 50 pupal skins each time if possible and continue until 200 exuviae have been identified using the Freshwater Biological Association ‘Guide to the identification of chironomid pupal exuviae occurring in Britain and Ireland’.Acid pressure lake macroinvertebrates: Sample preserved in the field if possible and processed to mixed taxon level in the laboratory according to BT001. BENTHIC INVERTEBRATE FAUNA LAKE ACIDIFICATION MACROINVERTEBRATE METRIC (LAMM): EN ISO 27828:1994 Water quality – Methods of biological sampling - Guidance on hand net sampling of aquatic benthic macro-invertebrates (ISO 7828:1985) and BENTHIC INVERTEBRATE FAUNA CHIRONOMID PUPAL EXUVIAE TECHNIQUE (CPET): EN 15196:2006 Water Quality – Guidance on the sampling and processing of the pupal exuviae of Chironomidae (Order Diptera) for ecological assessment. Confidence in classification for UK lake methods is determined by the VISCOUS model. This uses the standard deviation and mean of reference sites, the distance of an EQR to the class boundaries and the number of samples taken, to determine confidence of classification. CPET:will produce 95% confidence of class depending on distance from boundary. Lake Acidification tool: The maximum confidence of class achieved by LAMM at clear water lakes, at the mid point of Moderate is 84% (based on one sample) The maximum confidence of class achieved by LAMM at humic water lakes, at the mid point of Moderate/Poor/Bad is 98% (based on one sample) The approach to uncertainty assessment assumes that the estimated mean LAMM EQR is normally distributed with a standard deviation that is a modelled function of EQR. Using the estimated standard deviation and number of samples collected we determine the confidence that the observed mean EQR lies within particular class boundaries. The approach follows that of Ellis (1990) (available at http://publications.environment-agency.gov.uk/epages/eapublications.storefront/4b100774024a67a6273fc0a802960648/Product/View/GEHO1006BLOR&2DE&2DE. In reporting the overall confidence of being worse than Good we use the weight of evidence derived from the status and confidence of each biological tool that is sensitive to the same pressure. CPET: An adequate survey of a lake is considered to be 80-90% representation of the species emerging from April to October. Monthly Tests have determined that this can be obtained by taking 4 samples in different months for lakes. This is based on taking a subsample of 200 skins from each sample.Acid pressure lake macroinvertebrates. Recommendation following R&D review of lake sampling methodologies and the results of replicate sampling from 30 acid stressed lakes (Title R&D Review of Lake Benthic Macroinvertebrate Sampling Methods and Strategy (HO)R&D Technical Report 13765Authors O’Hare, M.T., Tree, A., Neale, M.W., Irvine, K., Gunn, I.D., Jones, J.I. & R.T. Clarke. LAMM: Once a year for 3 years QE1-3 Benthic invertebrates RW Standard RIVPACS sampling protocol. At shallow sites, this comprises a 3-minute hand net sample collected from all habitats in the river in proportion to their cover, plus a manual search for one minute. In deep waters, the hand-net sample is replaced by a similar sample collected by very long-handled net from the river bank, a small or medium naturalists dredge, or air lift sample. Samples from deep waters are also supplemented by a 1-minute sweep of marginal habitats using a hand-net from the riverbank. The procedure is described in: Murray-Bligh, J.A.D. (1999a) Procedure for collecting and analysing macro-invertebrate samples. Quality Management Systems for Environmental Biology: Biological Techniques, BT001 Version 2.0. Bristol: Environment Agency. This document is available outside the Environment Agency. It is due to be updated by May 2007, but only as an internal Environment Agency document. The document has already been amended by: Murray-Bligh, J.A.D. (2000) Modifications to the methods used for sampling invertebrates from deep waters (BT001). National Biology Technical Group Working Document No. 38. (internal document). Laboratory analysis: Murray-Bligh, J.A.D. (1999a) Procedure for collecting and analysing macro-invertebrate samples. Quality Management Systems for Environmental Biology: Biological Techniques, BT001 Version 2.0. Bristol: Environment Agency. Murray-Bligh, J.A.D. (1999b) Procedure for quality assurance for RIVPACS compatible macro-invertebrate samples analysed to the taxonomic level needed for the BMWP-score system. Quality Management Systems for Environmental Biology: Biological Techniques, BT003. Version 1.0. Bristol: Environment Agency. A supplement to this method may be needed to cover quality assurance (measurement and control of error) in estimating abundance, because this has not been developed yet. Data analysis is covered in the same document. However, the document does not cover the design of the monitoring surveys, not the data analysis procedures leading to classification. Some methods have not been defined yet (for example, rules for combining samples from different seasons into one year; combining samples from different years, combining environmental data from different years to provide RIVPACS predictions; scientific derivation of class boundaries for N-taxa; adjustment of RIVPACS predictions to WFD reference values. RIVER INVERTEBRATE CLASSIFICATION TOOL (RICT): The sampling methods used should be compliant with EN ISO 27828:1994 Water quality – Methods of biological sampling - Guidance on hand net sampling of aquatic benthic macro-invertebrates (ISO 7828:1985) and EN ISO 9391:1995 Water Quality – Sampling in deep waters for macro-invertebrates – Guidance on the use of colonization, qualitative and quantitative samples (ISO 9391:1993) Can achieve 95% confidence of a water body being less than good A minimum of two surveys (one in Spring and one in Autumn) per annum once every three years is recommended QE1-3 Benthic invertebrates TW Soft sediment macrobenthic community analysis Samples will be taken once per annum, in early Spring [1st Feb to 30th April]. The monitoring cycle is once every 3 years. Sub-tidal samples will be collected by boat. The standard sampling gear is 0.1m2 Day Grab. Intertidal samples will be taken by hand corer. There are 2 standard sizes – 0.01m2 and 0.1m2. Detailed instructions at http://intranet/ams_document_library/2007/001_050/009_07.doc) Benthic invertebrate sampling is stratified according to EUNIS habitat type. Samples will be taken from matched stable, depositional habitats so that the variability in the biological communities from a defined EUNIS habitat from different geographical locations and water body types can be compared. Samples will be spread as widely as possible throughout the habitat in the water body, but outside of any ‘allowable zones of effect’. Imposex assessment Samples will be taken once per annum during the sampling season (June to September). The monitoring cycle is expected to be every 4 years. 40 specimens are required per sampling station. Hand collect at low tide, between spring low water and mid tide levels. Soft sediment macrobenthic community analysis Samples will be sieved using a 0.5mm sieve mesh in transitional waters and 1mm mesh in coastal waters. After sieving, samples will be fixed in 4-8% buffered formaldehyde for later laboratory analysis. All specimens should be examined under suitable magnification and identified to the lowest taxonomic level possible and counted. Any fragmented specimens should only be counted if the head is present. Other partial specimens which can be identified may be recorded but should not be used in any subsequent data analysis. Juveniles should be recorded separately as their numbers may introduce a seasonal bias to the data. Detailed instructions at: http://intranet/ams_document_library/2007/001_050/008_07.doc) Imposex assessment Measure: -Imposex stage for each female -Length of penis in males and females (to nearest 0.01mm) -Shell height (nearest mm) -Sex ratio (F/M) Benthic Invertebrate Infaunal Quality Index (IQI): EN ISO 16665:2005 Water quality – Guidelines for quantitative investigations of marine soft-bottom benthic fauna in the marine environment. BENTHIC INVERTEBRATE FAUNA DOG WHELKS (Nucella lapillus) - IMPOSEX ASSESSMENT: procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards. Soft sediment macrobenthic community analysis: Taking 15 samples equates roughly to being able to detect a change in mean IQI values of 0.1 with a confidence of around 75%. The confidence and precision at each site will depend on the inherent variability of the habitat sampled and the distance from the class boundary values. Soft sediment macrobenthic community analysis Historical data was subjected to power analysis to determine frequency required for high confidence assessment. Sampling once per year. Imposex assessment Monitoring of Nucella lapillus, to assess imposex, will use samples taken for OSPAR requirements. Therefore monitoring frequency will follow the OSPAR frequency. This is to minimise impact on dogwhelk populations from over sampling. Once every 3 years. QE1-4 Fish RW We intend to employ a one run electric fishing survey of small and medium rivers in line with FAME/EFI sampling protocol. Possible deviation from FAME protocol in salmonid rivers (to reduce the likelihood of stress and subsequent fish loss), provided the shorter length sampled will still result in all species present being caught (with no bias to salmon over trout); will not result in less than 30 fish being caught; will ensure that all habitat components are included, e.g. riffle, run and pool; and the width and length of a site/sampled area is always measured. In larger rivers, we intend to use a multi-method sampling strategy, including a combination of qualitative electric fishing (species and age composition), hydro-acoustics (abundance and size distribution) and angling catch. Fykes and seines, including micro-mesh seines may also be deployed where appropriate. Direct (and non-destructive) measurements of electric fishing catch. Where electric fishing is carried out in combination with hydro-acoustic monitoring (in larger rivers), direct measurement will allow interpretation of species composition, abundance and size distribution from acoustic monitoring results. We have reservations over the performance of the European Fish Index in England and Wales. Hence, we have not yet taken a decision on which classification tool to adopt. Fish Fauna Fisheries Classification Scheme: EN 14011:2003 Water Quality – Guidance standard on sampling fish with electricity. Can achieve 95% confidence of a water body being less than good For WFD-only survey sites, monitoring will comply with minimum standards of the Directive, ie. once every 6 years. Aiming to monitor fish in parallel with other quality elements to remove elements of temporal variance. Some WFD sites will also be surveyed annually as part of our wider fisheries monitoring programme, along with 1200+ non-WFD sites (where compatible data are collected from the latter, these will contribute to water body classification). An additional 2500+ sites are also surveyed semi-quantitatively every 6 years as part of the wider programme (again, these will provide water body classifications where possible). QE1-4 Fish TW Sampling for this transitional fish classification tool consists of multi-method netting to include otter and beam trawl, oyster dredge, seine and fyke netting. Information from cooling water intake screens will be used in certain transitional waters. Detailed methodologies for each technique are provided in Environment Agency Technical reference material: Trawling for fish (otter, beam and oyster dredge) http://intranet/ams_document_library/2007/001_050/011_07.doc Technical Reference Material - Fyke netting for monitoring fish (version 1) http://intranet/ams_document_library/2007/001_050/25_07.doc Technical Reference Material - Seine netting for monitoring fish (version 2) http://intranet.ea.gov/ams_document_library/icontent/DocDir44/145_03.doc Field recording of species present, catch and total length. At least 50 fish lengths will be taken across the entire size range for the catch. Data will be archived on the National Fish Population Data base prior to extraction along with environmental data for running the fish classification tool Fish Transitional Waters: EN 14757:2005 Water quality – Sampling of fish with multi-mesh gill nets and EN 14962:2006 Water Quality – Guidance on the scope and selection of fish-sampling methods Work is still underway to determine this but, good confidence of class is expected depending on distance from the class boundary values. Expect to be around 70% confident of class at mid class position. From studies of repeat surveys, and knowledge of fish life cycle, sampling windows of May to July and Sept to October should produce representative species lists and size distributions for each transitional water. QE2-1 Hydrological regime - rivers RW Permanent flow gauging and modelled flow Time series analysis and the generation of flow duration curves EN 14614: 2004 Water quality – Guidance standard for assessing the hydromorphological features of rivers and British Standards for the measurement of liquid flow in open channels (BS3680) The uncertainty associated with open channel flow gauging structures varies according to the type of structure and local conditions. The typical range of uncertainty for all river flow gauges is between 5% and 20%. The Environment Agency specifies through its MCERTS programme that all new flow gauging should ensure that instrument accuracy is no worse than +/- 8% for measured daily mean flow. For modelled natural flow 68% of the flow estimates will be within the margin of +/- 16% for mean flow, +/- 65% for Q95 and +/- 36% for Q70. The minimum monitoring cycle for surveillance and operational flow monitoring is all sites every year and the minimum frequency is every 15 minutes QE2-1-1 Water flow RW Data provided from model of flow and abstraction data, verified by gauged daily flow data in water bodies with flow monitoring points. Metric combining abstraction to low flows with other flow characteristics, and Developed by Entec EN 14614: 2004 Water quality – Guidance standard for assessing the hydromorphological features of rivers and British Standards for the measurement of liquid flow in open channels (BS3680) The uncertainty associated with open channel flow gauging structures varies according to the type of structure and local conditions. The typical range of uncertainty for all river flow gauges is between 5% and 20%. The Environment Agency specifies through its MCERTS programme that all new flow gauging should ensure that instrument accuracy is no worse than +/- 8% for measured daily mean flow. For modelled natural flow 68% of the flow estimates will be within the margin of +/- 16% for mean flow, +/- 65% for Q95 and +/- 36% for Q70. The minimum monitoring cycle for surveillance and operational flow monitoring is all sites every year and the minimum frequency is every 15 minutes QE2-1-2 Connection to groundwater bodies RW Not Monitored Not Monitored Not Monitored Not Monitored Not Monitored QE2-2 River continuity RW Not Monitored Not Monitored Not Monitored Not Monitored Not Monitored QE2-3 Morphological conditions - rivers RW RHS (River Habitat Survey) is carried out along a 500m length of river channel. Observations, recording both modifications and natural features, are made at ten spot-checks along the channel at 50m intervals. Additional information on valley form, channel dimensions, land use and map-based measurements, such as altitude and channel slope, are collected in a sweep-up section. The full detail of the method is provided in River Habitat Survey in Britain and Ireland Field Survey Guidance Manual: 2003 Version Range of analyses based around Habitat Quality Assessment (HQA) and Habitat Modification (HM) indices. These indices summarise the extent of modifications and natural and artificial features along the survey reach. Baseline reference conditions are also taken into account EN 14614: 2004 Water quality – Guidance standard for assessing the hydromorphological features of rivers The collection of RHS data is quality controlled in a number of ways. All surveyors must be accredited in the field survey methodology. All survey forms are quality checked for omissions and errors prior to being input onto a national database. The database has in-built validation rules in the data input process, ensuring that the database will only accept valid answers and complete records. The data is subject to a final quality check before being validated and accepted as live and active data Surveillance 35 sites will be surveyed as part of a rolling programme over 3 years. QE2-3-1 River depth and width variation RW RHS (River Habitat Survey) is carried out along a 500m length of river channel. Observations, recording both modifications and natural features, are made at ten spot-checks along the channel at 50m intervals. Additional information on valley form, channel dimensions, land use and map-based measurements, such as altitude and channel slope, are collected in a sweep-up section. The full detail of the method is provided in River Habitat Survey in Britain and Ireland Field Survey Guidance Manual: 2003 Version Range of analyses based around Habitat Quality Assessment (HQA) and Habitat Modification (HM) indices. These indices summarise the extent of modifications and natural and artificial features along the survey reach. Baseline reference conditions are also taken into account EN 14614: 2004 Water quality – Guidance standard for assessing the hydromorphological features of rivers low once every six years QE2-3-2 Structure and substrate of river bed RW RHS (River Habitat Survey) is carried out along a 500m length of river channel. Observations, recording both modifications and natural features, are made at ten spot-checks along the channel at 50m intervals. Additional information on valley form, channel dimensions, land use and map-based measurements, such as altitude and channel slope, are collected in a sweep-up section. The full detail of the method is provided in River Habitat Survey in Britain and Ireland Field Survey Guidance Manual: 2003 Version Range of analyses based around Habitat Quality Assessment (HQA) and Habitat Modification (HM) indices. These indices summarise the extent of modifications and natural and artificial features along the survey reach. Baseline reference conditions are also taken into account EN 14614: 2004 Water quality – Guidance standard for assessing the hydromorphological features of rivers low once every six years QE2-3-3 Structure of riparian zone RW RHS (River Habitat Survey) is carried out along a 500m length of river channel. Observations, recording both modifications and natural features, are made at ten spot-checks along the channel at 50m intervals. Additional information on valley form, channel dimensions, land use and map-based measurements, such as altitude and channel slope, are collected in a sweep-up section. The full detail of the method is provided in River Habitat Survey in Britain and Ireland Field Survey Guidance Manual: 2003 Version Range of analyses based around Habitat Quality Assessment (HQA) and Habitat Modification (HM) indices. These indices summarise the extent of modifications and natural and artificial features along the survey reach. Baseline reference conditions are also taken into account EN 14614: 2004 Water quality – Guidance standard for assessing the hydromorphological features of rivers low once every six years QE2-4 Hydrological regime - lakes LW Modelled flow and periodic level gauging relative to outflow datum A range of analysis techniques that may include any of: time series analysis, generation of flow duration curves, changes in residence time, changes in outflow head and changes in reservoir storage. Procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards +/- 3mm for level gauging, For modelled natural inflow 68% of the flow estimates will be within the margin of +/- 16% for mean flow, +/- 65% for Q95 and +/- 36% for Q70 For surveillance lakes we will aim to collect at least 3 years (not necessarily consecutive) of monthly level data for each lake in each 6 year planning cycle. This is more frequent than the stated minimum frequency in the Directive but is considered necessary to account for inter-year variability in both the hydrological regime and ecological receptors. Depending on the type of equipment installed some lakes will have a higher frequency of level monitoring. QE2-4-1 Water flow LW Data provided from model of flow and abstraction data, verified by gauged daily flow data in water bodies with flow monitoring points. Metric combining abstraction to low flows with other flow characteristics, and Developed by Entec Procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards medium Daily QE2-4-2 Residence time LW Not Monitored Not Monitored Not Monitored Not Monitored Not Monitored QE2-4-3 Connection to groundwater bodies LW Not Monitored Not Monitored Not Monitored Not Monitored Not Monitored QE2-5 Morphological conditions - lakes LW The method for assessing alterations to lake morphology is currently in development, the likely final method will involve a combination of desk based review and field assessment. Desk based assessment will rely mainly on aerial photography and hydrological datasets. The gathering of field data will largely be based on data obtained from Lake Habitat Surveys (LHS). Morphological assessment is currently in development, and will be based on data collected in LHS. It will consider single and cumulative pressures on lake morphology. Procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards At this stage the system is based mainly on expert opinion, therefore confidence and precision in this system currently could best be described as moderate. The links between hydromorphological change and ecological impact are poorly understood. As future research examines these relationships, the system will be updated, and both the confidence and precision should improve. Surveillance sites will be monitored once per river basin cycle at the most. QE2-5-1 Lake depth variation LW Not Monitored Not Monitored Not Monitored Not Monitored Not Monitored QE2-5-2 Lake bed LW LHS (Lake Habitat Survey) in surveillance water bodies Range of analyses based around Habitat Quality Assessment (HQA) and Habitat Modification (HM) indices. These indices summarise the extent of modifications and natural and artificial features along the survey reach. Baseline reference conditions are also taken into account Procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards High once every six years QE2-5-3 Structure of lake shore LW LHS (Lake Habitat Survey) in surveillance water bodies Range of analyses based around Habitat Quality Assessment (HQA) and Habitat Modification (HM) indices. These indices summarise the extent of modifications and natural and artificial features along the survey reach. Baseline reference conditions are also taken into account Procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards High once every six years QE2-6 Morphological conditions - transitional and coastal waters CW Level of deviation from undisturbed conditions assessed from magnitude of morphological Pressure information. River Basin Characterisation Risk assessment methods & TraC MIMAS Tool Procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards This QE is relevant to the classification of High Status water bodies. Levels of confidence have not yet been quantified but we generally expect to be able to determine whether this QE is at High Status or less than High Status with good confidence for most water bodies. Confidence may be reduced if a water body is very close to the High / Good boundary. This QE will be assessed at a minimum frequency of once every 6 years. This frequency is considered sufficient to monitor long term trends and is consistent with the River Basin Planning cycle. In addition to the WFD surveillance monitoring, investigative monitoring will be carried out as and when needed as part of the Licensing and Environmental Impact Assessment procedure for new morphological pressures. QE2-6 Morphological conditions - transitional and coastal waters TW Level of deviation from undisturbed conditions assessed from magnitude of morphological Pressure information. River Basin Characterisation Risk assessment methods & TraC MIMAS Tool Procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards This QE is relevant to the classification of High Status water bodies. Levels of confidence have not yet been quantified but we generally expect to be able to determine whether this QE is at High Status or less than High Status with good confidence for most water bodies. Confidence may be reduced if a water body is very close to the High / Good boundary. This QE will be assessed at a minimum frequency of once every 6 years. This frequency is considered sufficient to monitor long term trends and is consistent with the River Basin Planning cycle. In addition to the WFD surveillance monitoring, investigative monitoring will be carried out as and when needed as part of the Licensing and Environmental Impact Assessment procedure for new morphological pressures. QE2-6-1 Depth variation CW Level of deviation from undisturbed conditions assessed from magnitude of morphological Pressure information. River Basin Characterisation Risk assessment methods & TraC MIMAS Tool River Basin Characterisation, Morphological alterations, Technical Assessment Method. 2005. ABP. Environment Agency (internal) Report Revised methodology2007. TraC MIMAS Technical Report (2007), Produced for UKTAG Phase 2 Environmental Standards stakeholder consultation. Procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards. LOW Every six years QE2-6-1 Depth variation TW Level of deviation from undisturbed conditions assessed from magnitude of morphological Pressure information. River Basin Characterisation Risk assessment methods & TraC MIMAS Tool River Basin Characterisation, Morphological alterations, Technical Assessment Method. 2005. ABP. Environment Agency (internal) Report Revised methodology2007. TraC MIMAS Technical Report (2007), Produced for UKTAG Phase 2 Environmental Standards stakeholder consultation. Procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards. LOW Every six years QE2-6-2 Quantity, structure and substrate of bed CW Level of deviation from undisturbed conditions assessed from magnitude of morphological Pressure information. River Basin Characterisation Risk assessment methods & TraC MIMAS Tool River Basin Characterisation, Morphological alterations, Technical Assessment Method. 2005. ABP. Environment Agency (internal) Report Revised methodology2007. TraC MIMAS Technical Report (2007), Produced for UKTAG Phase 2 Environmental Standards stakeholder consultation. Procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards. LOW Every six years QE2-6-2 Quantity, structure and substrate of bed TW Level of deviation from undisturbed conditions assessed from magnitude of morphological Pressure information. River Basin Characterisation Risk assessment methods & TraC MIMAS Tool River Basin Characterisation, Morphological alterations, Technical Assessment Method. 2005. ABP. Environment Agency (internal) Report Revised methodology2007. TraC MIMAS Technical Report (2007), Produced for UKTAG Phase 2 Environmental Standards stakeholder consultation. Procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards. LOW Every six years QE2-6-3 Structure of the intertidal zone CW Level of deviation from undisturbed conditions assessed from magnitude of morphological Pressure information. River Basin Characterisation Risk assessment methods & TraC MIMAS Tool River Basin Characterisation, Morphological alterations, Technical Assessment Method. 2005. ABP. Environment Agency (internal) Report Revised methodology2007. TraC MIMAS Technical Report (2007), Produced for UKTAG Phase 2 Environmental Standards stakeholder consultation. Procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards. LOW Every six years QE2-6-3 Structure of the intertidal zone TW Level of deviation from undisturbed conditions assessed from magnitude of morphological Pressure information. River Basin Characterisation Risk assessment methods & TraC MIMAS Tool River Basin Characterisation, Morphological alterations, Technical Assessment Method. 2005. ABP. Environment Agency (internal) Report Revised methodology2007. TraC MIMAS Technical Report (2007), Produced for UKTAG Phase 2 Environmental Standards stakeholder consultation. Procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards. LOW Every six years QE3-2 Priority Substances CW This survey concerns the sampling of water chemistry in transitional and coastal waters. This procedure is the standard procedure adopted by the Environment Agency and is part of the National Sampling Procedures Manual. Standards ISO 5667 Part 1 to 17 are followed. For the purposes of this procedure, the definitions given in ISO 6107 parts 1 and 2 apply. The procedure describes: Pre-sampling quality checks Selecting sampling locations Arrival on site Avoidance of contamination Watercourse sampling Taking the sample Labelling Field measurements Chains of audit Storage, transport and delivery of samples Storage at depots Maintenance of equipment Laboratory storage provision The technical guidance for the above steps varies according to the purpose of data collection. Sampling can either be direct of indirect. Direct sampling involves placing the sampling bottle under the surface of the water allowing it to fill. Indirect sampling involves lowering a water-sampling container below the surface of the water body and allowing it to fill. The contents are then used to fill up sample bottles that vary according to the required method of analysis, some may be treated with preservatives. Hand-held measuring devices are used to sample some water quality indicators such as salinity, pH and temperature. Such measurements must be made using the 'YSI 556 Multi-parameter Meter'. Laboratory analysis of water samples using standard and UKAS accredited procedures for the analysis of water and associated materials. At Surveillance sites the water sample is scanned for all Annex 10 (plus 8 & 9) substances. The scan uses a range of methods including targeted-based multi-residue and ICPMS devices. At Operational sites the water sample will be analysed for specific substances known to be present or discharged into the water body. ISO 5667 Part 1 Guidance on the design of sampling programmes. Procedures are UKAS Accredited Three-year data sets comprised of 36 samples are used to assess status and to check compliance with objectives. 36 samples derive 95% confidence at the 90%ile. The competent authority (Environment Agency, England and Wales) has used a frequency of twelve samples per year (monthly) for over twenty years. Monthly sampling has been found adequate to assess seasonal variations and when combined into a three-year data set the programme delivers a confidence of 95%. A consistent monitoring frequency allows simple data comparison between water bodies, catchments and River Basin Districts. For administrative purposes a fixed sampling frequency is most efficient and will simplify the management of monitoring programmes. QE3-2 Priority Substances RW This survey concerns the sampling of water chemistry in rivers. This procedure is the standard procedure adopted by the Environment Agency and is part of the National Sampling Procedures Manual. Standards ISO 5667 Part 1 to 17 are followed. For the purposes of this procedure, the definitions given in ISO 6107 parts 1 and 2 apply. The procedure describes: Pre-sampling quality checks Selecting sampling locations Arrival on site Avoidance of contamination Watercourse sampling Taking the sample Labelling Field measurements Chains of audit Storage, transport and delivery of samples Storage at depots Maintenance of equipment Laboratory storage provision The technical guidance for the above steps varies according to the purpose of data collection. Sampling can either be direct of indirect. Direct sampling involves wading into the stream and placing the sampling bottle under the surface of the water allowing it to fill. Indirect sampling involves throwing a container, such as a can, into the watercourse and allowing it to fill from the surface. The contents are then used to fill up sample bottles that vary according to the required method of analysis, some may be treated with preservatives. Hand-held measuring devices are used to sample some water quality indicators such as pH and temperature. Such measurements must be made using the 'YSI 556 Multi-parameter Meter'. Laboratory analysis of water samples using standard and UKAS accredited procedures for the analysis of water and associated materials ISO 5667 Part 1 Guidance on the design of sampling programmes. Procedures are UKAS Accredited Three-year data sets comprised of 36 samples are used to assess status and to check compliance with objectives. 36 samples derive 95% confidence at the 90%ile. The competent authority (Environment Agency, England and Wales) has used a frequency of twelve samples per year (monthly) for over twenty years. Monthly sampling has been found adequate to assess seasonal variations and when combined into a three-year data set the programme delivers a confidence of 95%. A consistent monitoring frequency allows simple data comparison between water bodies, catchments and River Basin Districts. For administrative purposes a fixed sampling frequency is most efficient and will simplify the management of monitoring programmes. QE3-2 Priority Substances TW This survey concerns the sampling of water chemistry in transitional and coastal waters. This procedure is the standard procedure adopted by the Environment Agency and is part of the National Sampling Procedures Manual. Standards ISO 5667 Part 1 to 17 are followed. For the purposes of this procedure, the definitions given in ISO 6107 parts 1 and 2 apply. The procedure describes: Pre-sampling quality checks Selecting sampling locations Arrival on site Avoidance of contamination Watercourse sampling Taking the sample Labelling Field measurements Chains of audit Storage, transport and delivery of samples Storage at depots Maintenance of equipment Laboratory storage provision The technical guidance for the above steps varies according to the purpose of data collection. Sampling can either be direct of indirect. Direct sampling involves placing the sampling bottle under the surface of the water allowing it to fill. Indirect sampling involves lowering a water-sampling container below the surface of the water body and allowing it to fill. The contents are then used to fill up sample bottles that vary according to the required method of analysis, some may be treated with preservatives. Hand-held measuring devices are used to sample some water quality indicators such as salinity, pH and temperature. Such measurements must be made using the 'YSI 556 Multi-parameter Meter'. Laboratory analysis of water samples using standard and UKAS accredited procedures for the analysis of water and associated materials. At Surveillance sites the water sample is scanned for all Annex 10 (plus 8 & 9) substances. The scan uses a range of methods including targeted-based multi-residue and ICPMS devices. At Operational sites the water sample will be analysed for specific substances known to be present or discharged into the water body. ISO 5667 Part 1 Guidance on the design of sampling programmes. Procedures are UKAS Accredited Three-year data sets comprised of 36 samples are used to assess status and to check compliance with objectives. 36 samples derive 95% confidence at the 90%ile. The competent authority (Environment Agency, England and Wales) has used a frequency of twelve samples per year (monthly) for over twenty years. Monthly sampling has been found adequate to assess seasonal variations and when combined into a three-year data set the programme delivers a confidence of 95%. A consistent monitoring frequency allows simple data comparison between water bodies, catchments and River Basin Districts. For administrative purposes a fixed sampling frequency is most efficient and will simplify the management of monitoring programmes. QE2-7 Tidal regime - transitional waters TW Level of deviation from undisturbed conditions assessed from magnitude of morphological Pressure information. River Basin Characterisation Risk assessment methods & TraC MIMAS Tool River Basin Characterisation, Morphological alterations, Technical Assessment Method. 2005. ABP. Environment Agency (internal) Report Revised methodology2007. TraC MIMAS Technical Report (2007), Produced for UKTAG Phase 2 Environmental Standards stakeholder consultation. Procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards. This QE is relevant to the classification of High Status water bodies. Levels of confidence have not yet been quantified but we generally expect to be able to determine whether this QE is at High Status or less than High Status with good confidence for most water bodies. Confidence may be reduced if a water body is very close to the High / Good boundary. This QE will be assessed at a minimum frequency of once every 6 years. This frequency is considered sufficient to monitor long term trends and is consistent with the River Basin Planning cycle. In addition to the WFD surveillance monitoring, investigative monitoring will be carried out as and when needed as part of the Licensing and Environmental Impact Assessment procedure for new morphological pressures. QE2-7-1 Freshwater flow TW Data provided from model of flow and abstraction data, verified by gauged daily flow data in water bodies with flow monitoring points. Metric combining abstraction to low flows with other flow characteristics, and Developed by Entec Environment Agency, Hydrological Regime Supporting Element.Classification for the Water Framework Directive, Classification Methods And Guidance. July 2006. Entec UK Limited. Procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards LOW Every six years QE2-7-2 Wave exposure TW Level of deviation from undisturbed conditions assessed from magnitude of morphological Pressure information. River Basin Characterisation Risk assessment methods & TraC MIMAS Tool River Basin Characterisation, Morphological alterations, Technical Assessment Method. 2005. ABP. Environment Agency (internal) Report Revised methodology2007. TraC MIMAS Technical Report (2007), Produced for UKTAG Phase 2 Environmental Standards stakeholder consultation. Procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards. LOW Every six years QE2-8 Tidal regime - coastal waters CW Level of deviation from undisturbed conditions assessed from magnitude of morphological Pressure information. River Basin Characterisation Risk assessment methods & TraC MIMAS Tool River Basin Characterisation, Morphological alterations, Technical Assessment Method. 2005. ABP. Environment Agency (internal) Report Revised methodology2007. TraC MIMAS Technical Report (2007), Produced for UKTAG Phase 2 Environmental Standards stakeholder consultation. Procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards. QE2-8-1 Direction of dominant currents CW Level of deviation from undisturbed conditions assessed from magnitude of morphological Pressure information. River Basin Characterisation Risk assessment methods & TraC MIMAS Tool River Basin Characterisation, Morphological alterations, Technical Assessment Method. 2005. ABP. Environment Agency (internal) Report Revised methodology2007. TraC MIMAS Technical Report (2007), Produced for UKTAG Phase 2 Environmental Standards stakeholder consultation. Procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards. LOW Every six years QE2-8-2 Wave exposure CW Level of deviation from undisturbed conditions assessed from magnitude of morphological Pressure information. River Basin Characterisation Risk assessment methods & TraC MIMAS Tool River Basin Characterisation, Morphological alterations, Technical Assessment Method. 2005. ABP. Environment Agency (internal) Report Revised methodology2007. TraC MIMAS Technical Report (2007), Produced for UKTAG Phase 2 Environmental Standards stakeholder consultation. Procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards. LOW Every six years QE3-1-2 Thermal conditions LW Sub surface open water sample collected using a ‘throw bottle’ from the lake shore or subsurface dip sample from a boat.(detailed instructions at http://intranet/ams_document_library/2007/001_050/19_07.doc).Annual dissolved oxygen and temperature profile using boat mounted instruments from the deepest part of the lake before the thermocline has broken down in stratified lakes and in late summer in lakes which do not stratify. Laboratory analysis of water samples using standard and UKAS accredited procedures for the analysis of water and associated materials, for: pH, conductivity, colour, filtered total oxidised nitrogen, filtered ammonia, Kjeldhal nitrogen, total nitrogen, alkalinity, chlorophyll a, total phosphorus, filtered orthophosphate, chloride ion, sulphate, sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, dissolved organic carbon, Field observation from gauge board - water level Procedures are UKAS Accredited and Operational instruction 528_06: national standard for taking field measurements: using a multi-parameter meter (ES 024) 95% certainty of failure (with 3 years of monthly data where applicable). Using historical time series data sample frequency and duration was chosen to allow assessment of environmental standard failure with high certainty QE3-1-3 Oxygenation conditions LW Sub surface open water sample collected using a ‘throw bottle’ from the lake shore or subsurface dip sample from a boat.(detailed instructions at http://intranet/ams_document_library/2007/001_050/19_07.doc).Annual dissolved oxygen and temperature profile using boat mounted instruments from the deepest part of the lake before the thermocline has broken down in stratified lakes and in late summer in lakes which do not stratify. Laboratory analysis of water samples using standard and UKAS accredited procedures for the analysis of water and associated materials, for: pH, conductivity, colour, filtered total oxidised nitrogen, filtered ammonia, Kjeldhal nitrogen, total nitrogen, alkalinity, chlorophyll a, total phosphorus, filtered orthophosphate, chloride ion, sulphate, sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, dissolved organic carbon, Field observation from gauge board - water level Procedures are UKAS Accredited and Operational instruction 528_06: national standard for taking field measurements: using a multi-parameter meter (ES 024) 95% certainty of failure (with 3 years of monthly data where applicable). Using historical time series data sample frequency and duration was chosen to allow assessment of environmental standard failure with high certainty QE3-1-5 Acidification status LW Sub surface open water sample collected using a ‘throw bottle’ from the lake shore or subsurface dip sample from a boat.(detailed instructions at http://intranet/ams_document_library/2007/001_050/19_07.doc).Annual dissolved oxygen and temperature profile using boat mounted instruments from the deepest part of the lake before the thermocline has broken down in stratified lakes and in late summer in lakes which do not stratify. Laboratory analysis of water samples using standard and UKAS accredited procedures for the analysis of water and associated materials, for: pH, conductivity, colour, filtered total oxidised nitrogen, filtered ammonia, Kjeldhal nitrogen, total nitrogen, alkalinity, chlorophyll a, total phosphorus, filtered orthophosphate, chloride ion, sulphate, sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, dissolved organic carbon, Field observation from gauge board - water level Procedures are UKAS Accredited 95% certainty of failure (with 3 years of monthly data where applicable). Using historical time series data sample frequency and duration was chosen to allow assessment of environmental standard failure with high certainty QE3-1-6 Nutrient conditions LW Sub surface open water sample collected using a ‘throw bottle’ from the lake shore or subsurface dip sample from a boat.(detailed instructions at http://intranet/ams_document_library/2007/001_050/19_07.doc).Annual dissolved oxygen and temperature profile using boat mounted instruments from the deepest part of the lake before the thermocline has broken down in stratified lakes and in late summer in lakes which do not stratify. Laboratory analysis of water samples using standard and UKAS accredited procedures for the analysis of water and associated materials, for: pH, conductivity, colour, filtered total oxidised nitrogen, filtered ammonia, Kjeldhal nitrogen, total nitrogen, alkalinity, chlorophyll a, total phosphorus, filtered orthophosphate, chloride ion, sulphate, sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, dissolved organic carbon, Field observation from gauge board - water level Procedures are UKAS Accredited 95% certainty of failure (with 3 years of monthly data where applicable). Using historical time series data sample frequency and duration was chosen to allow assessment of environmental standard failure with high certainty QE3-1General Parameters CW This survey concerns the sampling of water chemistry in coastal waters. This procedure is the standard procedure adopted by the Environment Agency and is part of the National Sampling Procedures Manual. Standards ISO 5667 Part 1 to 17 are followed. For the purposes of this procedure, the definitions given in ISO 6107 parts 1 and 2 apply. The procedure describes: Pre-sampling quality checks Selecting sampling locations Arrival on site Avoidance of contamination Watercourse sampling Taking the sample Labelling Field measurements Chains of audit Storage, transport and delivery of samples Storage at depots Maintenance of equipment Laboratory storage provision The technical guidance for the above steps varies according to the purpose of data collection. Sampling can either be direct of indirect. Direct sampling involves wading into the water and placing the sampling bottle under the surface of the water allowing it to fill. Indirect sampling involves throwing a container, such as a can, into the water and allowing it to fill from the surface. The contents are then used to fill up sample bottles that vary according to the required method of analysis, some may be treated with preservatives. Hand-held measuring devices are used to sample some water quality indicators such as pH and temperature. Such measurements must be made using the 'YSI 556 Multi-parameter Meter'. Laboratory analysis of water samples using standard and UKAS accredited procedures for the analysis of water and associated materials. Analysis is required for: Dissolved oxygen (field), salinity – conductivity (field), temperature (field), transparency (field), cholorophyll-a biomass, total oxidised nitrogen, phosphate, silicate, ammonia, nitrate, nitrite, dissolved inorganic nitrogen. ISO 5667 Part 1 Guidance on the design of sampling programmes. Procedures are UKAS Accredited Three-year data sets comprised of 36 samples are used to assess status and to check compliance with objectives. 36 samples derive 95% confidence at the 90%ile. The competent authority (Environment Agency, England and Wales) has used a frequency of twelve samples per year (monthly) for over twenty years. Monthly sampling has been found adequate to assess seasonal variations and when combined into a three-year data set the programme delivers a confidence of 95%. A consistent monitoring frequency allows simple data comparison between water bodies, catchments and River Basin Districts. For administrative purposes a fixed sampling frequency is most efficient and will simplify the management of monitoring programmes. QE3-1General Parameters RW This survey concerns the sampling of water chemistry in rivers. This procedure is the standard procedure adopted by the Environment Agency and is part of the National Sampling Procedures Manual. Standards ISO 5667 Part 1 to 17 are followed. For the purposes of this procedure, the definitions given in ISO 6107 parts 1 and 2 apply. The procedure describes: Pre-sampling quality checks Selecting sampling locations Arrival on site Avoidance of contamination Watercourse sampling Taking the sample Labelling Field measurements Chains of audit Storage, transport and delivery of samples Storage at depots Maintenance of equipment Laboratory storage provision The technical guidance for the above steps varies according to the purpose of data collection. Sampling can either be direct of indirect. Direct sampling involves wading into the stream and placing the sampling bottle under the surface of the water allowing it to fill. Indirect sampling involves throwing a container, such as a can, into the watercourse and allowing it to fill from the surface. The contents are then used to fill up sample bottles that vary according to the required method of analysis, some may be treated with preservatives. Hand-held measuring devices are used to sample some water quality indicators such as pH and temperature. Such measurements must be made using the 'YSI 556 Multi-parameter Meter'. Laboratory analysis of water samples using standard and UKAS accredited procedures for the analysis of water and associated materials. ISO 5667 Part 1 Guidance on the design of sampling programmes. Procedures are UKAS Accredited Three-year data sets comprised of 36 samples are used to assess status and to check compliance with objectives. 36 samples derive 95% confidence at the 90%ile. The competent authority (Environment Agency, England and Wales) has used a frequency of twelve samples per year (monthly) for over twenty years. Monthly sampling has been found adequate to assess seasonal variations and when combined into a three-year data set the programme delivers a confidence of 95%. A consistent monitoring frequency allows simple data comparison between water bodies, catchments and River Basin Districts. For administrative purposes a fixed sampling frequency is most efficient and will simplify the management of monitoring programmes. QE3-1General Parameters TW This survey concerns the sampling of water chemistry in transitional waters. This procedure is the standard procedure adopted by the Environment Agency and is part of the National Sampling Procedures Manual. Standards ISO 5667 Part 1 to 17 are followed. For the purposes of this procedure, the definitions given in ISO 6107 parts 1 and 2 apply. The procedure describes: Pre-sampling quality checks Selecting sampling locations Arrival on site Avoidance of contamination Watercourse sampling Taking the sample Labelling Field measurements Chains of audit Storage, transport and delivery of samples Storage at depots Maintenance of equipment Laboratory storage provision The technical guidance for the above steps varies according to the purpose of data collection. Sampling can either be direct of indirect. Direct sampling involves wading into the water and placing the sampling bottle under the surface of the water allowing it to fill. Indirect sampling involves throwing a container, such as a can, into the water and allowing it to fill from the surface. The contents are then used to fill up sample bottles that vary according to the required method of analysis, some may be treated with preservatives. Hand-held measuring devices are used to sample some water quality indicators such as pH and temperature. Such measurements must be made using the 'YSI 556 Multi-parameter Meter'. Laboratory analysis of water samples using standard and UKAS accredited procedures for the analysis of water and associated materials. Analysis is required for: Dissolved oxygen (field), salinity – conductivity (field), temperature (field), transparency (field), cholorophyll-a biomass, total oxidised nitrogen, phosphate, silicate, ammonia, nitrate, nitrite, dissolved inorganic nitrogen. ISO 5667 Part 1 Guidance on the design of sampling programmes. Procedures are UKAS Accredited Three-year data sets comprised of 36 samples are used to assess status and to check compliance with objectives. 36 samples derive 95% confidence at the 90%ile. The competent authority (Environment Agency, England and Wales) has used a frequency of twelve samples per year (monthly) for over twenty years. Monthly sampling has been found adequate to assess seasonal variations and when combined into a three-year data set the programme delivers a confidence of 95%. A consistent monitoring frequency allows simple data comparison between water bodies, catchments and River Basin Districts. For administrative purposes a fixed sampling frequency is most efficient and will simplify the management of monitoring programmes. QE3-3 Non priority specific pollutants CW This survey concerns the sampling of water chemistry in transitional and coastal waters. This procedure is the standard procedure adopted by the Environment Agency and is part of the National Sampling Procedures Manual. Standards ISO 5667 Part 1 to 17 are followed. For the purposes of this procedure, the definitions given in ISO 6107 parts 1 and 2 apply. The procedure describes: Pre-sampling quality checks Selecting sampling locations Arrival on site Avoidance of contamination Watercourse sampling Taking the sample Labelling Field measurements Chains of audit Storage, transport and delivery of samples Storage at depots Maintenance of equipment Laboratory storage provision The technical guidance for the above steps varies according to the purpose of data collection. Sampling can either be direct of indirect. Direct sampling involves placing the sampling bottle under the surface of the water allowing it to fill. Indirect sampling involves lowering a water-sampling container below the surface of the water and allowing it to fill. The contents are then used to fill up sample bottles that vary according to the required method of analysis, some may be treated with preservatives. Hand-held measuring devices are used to sample some water quality indicators such as salinity, pH and temperature. Such measurements must be made using the 'YSI 556 Multi-parameter Meter'. Laboratory analysis of water samples using standard and UKAS accredited procedures for the analysis of water and associated materials. At Surveillance sites the water sample is scanned for all Annex 10 (plus 8 & 9) substances. The scan uses a range of methods including targeted-based multi-residue and ICPMS devices. At Operational sites the water sample will be analysed for specific substances known to be present or discharged into the water body. ISO 5667 Part 1 Guidance on the design of sampling programmes. Procedures are UKAS Accredited Three-year data sets comprised of 36 samples are used to assess status and to check compliance with objectives. 36 samples derive 95% confidence at the 90%ile. The competent authority (Environment Agency, England and Wales) has used a frequency of twelve samples per year (monthly) for over twenty years. Monthly sampling has been found adequate to assess seasonal variations and when combined into a three-year data set the programme delivers a confidence of 95%. A consistent monitoring frequency allows simple data comparison between water bodies, catchments and River Basin Districts. For administrative purposes a fixed sampling frequency is most efficient and will simplify the management of monitoring programmes. QE3-3 Non priority specific pollutants RW This survey concerns the sampling of water chemistry in rivers. This procedure is the standard procedure adopted by the Environment Agency and is part of the National Sampling Procedures Manual. Standards ISO 5667 Part 1 to 17 are followed. For the purposes of this procedure, the definitions given in ISO 6107 parts 1 and 2 apply. The procedure describes: Pre-sampling quality checks Selecting sampling locations Arrival on site Avoidance of contamination Watercourse sampling Taking the sample Labelling Field measurements Chains of audit Storage, transport and delivery of samples Storage at depots Maintenance of equipment Laboratory storage provision The technical guidance for the above steps varies according to the purpose of data collection. Sampling can either be direct of indirect. Direct sampling involves wading into the stream and placing the sampling bottle under the surface of the water allowing it to fill. Indirect sampling involves throwing a container, such as a can, into the watercourse and allowing it to fill from the surface. The contents are then used to fill up sample bottles that vary according to the required method of analysis, some may be treated with preservatives. Hand-held measuring devices are used to sample some water quality indicators such as pH and temperature. Such measurements must be made using the 'YSI 556 Multi-parameter Meter'. Laboratory analysis of water samples using standard and UKAS accredited procedures for the analysis of water and associated materials ISO 5667 Part 1 Guidance on the design of sampling programmes. Procedures are UKAS Accredited Three-year data sets comprised of 36 samples are used to assess status and to check compliance with objectives. 36 samples derive 95% confidence at the 90%ile. The competent authority (Environment Agency, England and Wales) has used a frequency of twelve samples per year (monthly) for over twenty years. Monthly sampling has been found adequate to assess seasonal variations and when combined into a three-year data set the programme delivers a confidence of 95%. A consistent monitoring frequency allows simple data comparison between water bodies, catchments and River Basin Districts. For administrative purposes a fixed sampling frequency is most efficient and will simplify the management of monitoring programmes. QE3-3 Non priority specific pollutants TW This survey concerns the sampling of water chemistry in transitional and coastal waters. This procedure is the standard procedure adopted by the Environment Agency and is part of the National Sampling Procedures Manual. Standards ISO 5667 Part 1 to 17 are followed. For the purposes of this procedure, the definitions given in ISO 6107 parts 1 and 2 apply. The procedure describes: Pre-sampling quality checks Selecting sampling locations Arrival on site Avoidance of contamination Watercourse sampling Taking the sample Labelling Field measurements Chains of audit Storage, transport and delivery of samples Storage at depots Maintenance of equipment Laboratory storage provision The technical guidance for the above steps varies according to the purpose of data collection. Sampling can either be direct of indirect. Direct sampling involves placing the sampling bottle under the surface of the water allowing it to fill. Indirect sampling involves lowering a water-sampling container below the surface of the water and allowing it to fill. The contents are then used to fill up sample bottles that vary according to the required method of analysis, some may be treated with preservatives. Hand-held measuring devices are used to sample some water quality indicators such as salinity, pH and temperature. Such measurements must be made using the 'YSI 556 Multi-parameter Meter'. Laboratory analysis of water samples using standard and UKAS accredited procedures for the analysis of water and associated materials. At Surveillance sites the water sample is scanned for all Annex 10 (plus 8 & 9) substances. The scan uses a range of methods including targeted-based multi-residue and ICPMS devices. At Operational sites the water sample will be analysed for specific substances known to be present or discharged into the water body. ISO 5667 Part 1 Guidance on the design of sampling programmes. Procedures are UKAS Accredited Three-year data sets comprised of 36 samples are used to assess status and to check compliance with objectives. 36 samples derive 95% confidence at the 90%ile. The competent authority (Environment Agency, England and Wales) has used a frequency of twelve samples per year (monthly) for over twenty years. Monthly sampling has been found adequate to assess seasonal variations and when combined into a three-year data set the programme delivers a confidence of 95%. A consistent monitoring frequency allows simple data comparison between water bodies, catchments and River Basin Districts. For administrative purposes a fixed sampling frequency is most efficient and will simplify the management of monitoring programmes. UK05SWPROG Anglian Surface Water Programme R Y Y RW UK0501ANN10 River Annex 10 Surveillance sites have been established towards the downstream extent of the water body so that an overall assessment can be made. Surveillance sites have been co-located with OSPAR monitoring stations. At these locations the water sample is scanned for all Annex 10 (plus 8 & 9) substances. The scan uses a range of methods including targeted-based multi-residue and ICPMS devices. Operational sites have been established in positions where effects of the individual, or combination of, pressures can be established. In addition to monitoring at Dangerous Substances Directive sites, other water bodies with samples that fail Annex X standards (with >50% confidence) have been selected. This is not applicable. One monitoring site does not have sub-sites. None None 517 0 QE3-2 Priority Substances 111 ISO 5667 Part 1 Guidance on the design of sampling programmes. Procedures are UKAS Accredited Three-year data sets comprised of 36 samples are used to assess status and to check compliance with objectives. 36 samples derive 95% confidence at the 90%ile. The competent authority (Environment Agency, England and Wales) has used a frequency of twelve samples per year (monthly) for over twenty years. Monthly sampling has been found adequate to assess seasonal variations and when combined into a three-year data set the programme delivers a confidence of 95%. A consistent monitoring frequency allows simple data comparison between water bodies, catchments and River Basin Districts. For administrative purposes a fixed sampling frequency is most efficient and will simplify the management of monitoring programmes. 12 6 Samples taken monthly on an Annual basis RW UK0501ANN8 River Annex 8 Surveillance sites have been established towards the downstream extent of the water body so that an overall assessment can be made. Surveillance sites have been co-located with OSPAR monitoring stations. At these locations the water sample is scanned for all Annex 8 (plus 9 & 10) substances. The scan uses a range of methods including targeted-based multi-residue and ICPMS devices. Operational sites have been established in positions where effects of the individual or combination of, pressures can be established. Water bodies that fail (with >50% confidence) the new, or interim, standards of the Annex 8 substances have been selected. This is not applicable. One monitoring site does not have sub-sites None None 791 0 QE3-3 Non priority specific pollutants 390 ISO 5667 Part 1 Guidance on the design of sampling programmes. Procedures are UKAS Accredited Three-year data sets comprised of 36 samples are used to assess status and to check compliance with objectives. 36 samples derive 95% confidence at the 90%ile. The competent authority (Environment Agency, England and Wales) has used a frequency of twelve samples per year (monthly) for over twenty years. Monthly sampling has been found adequate to assess seasonal variations and when combined into a three-year data set the programme delivers a confidence of 95%. A consistent monitoring frequency allows simple data comparison between water bodies, catchments and River Basin Districts. For administrative purposes a fixed sampling frequency is most efficient and will simplify the management of monitoring programmes. 12 6 Samples taken monthly on an Annual basis RW UK0501DIATOM River Phytobenthos Surveillance sites: Diatom sites are co-located with macro-invertebrate sites at the downstream extent of water bodies, so that all inputs to the water body can be assessed. Sample sites must not be directly effected by individual inputs. Operational sites:Water bodies are selected for diatom monitoring if they are at risk of not meeting good status because of point-source or diffuse nutrient pressures. Monitoring is targeted at water bodies reported to be ‘at risk, but were more information is required (1b)’ and where the new phosphate standard is exceeded. All such water bodies are monitored where the pressure is from point-sources. Where the pressure is from diffuse sources, a proportion of water bodies have been selected. The selection represents water bodies of all typologies within each River Basin District. Each water body has been assigned a ‘grouping category’ so that the results can be linked to other un-monitored water bodies within the River Basin District. Not applicable. None None 76 0 QE1-2-4 Phytobenthos 85 PHYTOBENTHOS - DIATOM ASSESSMENT FOR RIVER ECOLOGICAL STATUS (DARLEQ): The sampling method used should conform to EN 13946 : 2003 Water quality – Guidance standard for the routine sampling and pre-treatment of benthic diatoms from rivers. The analytical method used should conform to EN 14407 : 2004 Water quality – Guidance standard for the identification, enumeration and interpretation of benthic diatom samples from running waters. Can achieve 95% confidence of a water body being less than good A frequency of two samples per annum, with a return period of one in three years was chosen to fit in with the macro-invertebrate monitoring regime that has been used in England and Wales for two decades. Taking two samples significantly increases that statistical confidence by minimising several sources of error. 2 2 Twice Per Year, Once every 3 Years, monitored twice in 6 year cycle. RW UK0501FISH River Fish Restricted to one site per water body. Location selected to best represent the fish community in the water body. Where possible this will be co-located with sampling sites for other quality elements. Where impassable barriers are present within a waterbody and are likely to have a significant effect on fish distribution, a maximum of two sites are selected. As a general principle a WFD fish site should not be located immediately downstream or upstream of a weir as such a site is unlikely to be representative of the reach as a whole. Survey sites will be selected to include all micro-habitats present in the reach e.g. riffle, run and pool. None None 1125 0 QE1-4 Fish 1087 Fish Fauna Fisheries Classification Scheme: EN 14011:2003 Water Quality – Guidance standard on sampling fish with electricity. Can achieve 95% confidence of a water body being less than good For WFD-only survey sites, monitoring will comply with minimum standards of the Directive, ie. once every 6 years. Aiming to monitor fish in parallel with other quality elements to remove elements of temporal variance. Some WFD sites will also be surveyed annually as part of our wider fisheries monitoring programme, along with 1200+ non-WFD sites (where compatible data are collected from the latter, these will contribute to water body classification). An additional 2500+ sites are also surveyed semi-quantitatively every 6 years as part of the wider programme (again, these will provide water body classifications where possible). 1 1 Monitored once per year, once every 6 years. Some waterbodies are monitored every year. RW UK0501GEN River Physico-chemistry Individual sites have been selected to ensure that samples are representative. Sampling sites are located downstream of the mixing zone of any effluent or tributary. Where sampling is from a bridge samples are taken at mid-channel except where site characteristics, such a proximity of discharge, determine otherwise. A high proportion of bankside samples is taken in most Regions. Particular care is taken to ensure that representative samples are obtained in these circumstances. Samples are taken away from pools or stagnant zones and not less that 30 cm from the bottom to avoid disturbing sediment. The programme makes best use of monitoring sites where samples are taken for other reasons, such as the Freshwater Fisheries Directive. These sites have already been established in accordance with the criteria above. Surveillance sites have been established towards the downstream extent of the water body so that an overall assessment can be made. Operational sites have been established in positions where effects of the individual or combination of, pressures can be established This is not applicable. One monitoring site does not have sub-sites None None 5066 0 QE3-1General Parameters 804 ISO 5667 Part 1 Guidance on the design of sampling programmes. Procedures are UKAS Accredited Three-year data sets comprised of 36 samples are used to assess status and to check compliance with objectives. 36 samples derive 95% confidence at the 90%ile. The competent authority (Environment Agency, England and Wales) has used a frequency of twelve samples per year (monthly) for over twenty years. Monthly sampling has been found adequate to assess seasonal variations and when combined into a three-year data set the programme delivers a confidence of 95%. A consistent monitoring frequency allows simple data comparison between water bodies, catchments and River Basin Districts. For administrative purposes a fixed sampling frequency is most efficient and will simplify the management of monitoring programmes. 12 6 Samples taken monthly on an Annual basis RW UK0501HYDRO River Hydrology Overview: Environmental standards for the regulation of the hydrological regime of rivers are based on flow statistics. A model is used to estimate the flow at ungauged sites for both the natural reference flow and for scenario flows with different levels of artificial influences. The model is calibrated using a core set of good quality gauging stations. This approach is considered adequate for currently ungauged river waterbodies. Surveillance: Use the existing benchmark sites within the NRFA (National River Flow Archive) network. These have been selected for their strategic importance, quality and length of record, they qualify as surveillance sites because of the strategic value in maintaining a long period of record. Operational: All other permanent and current flow gauging stations not already included in the surveillance network. Ad hoc investigative monitoring using temporary structures or portable equipment. Sub-sites not applied None None 233 0 QE2-1 Hydrological regime - rivers 233 EN 14614: 2004 Water quality – Guidance standard for assessing the hydromorphological features of rivers and British Standards for the measurement of liquid flow in open channels (BS3680) The uncertainty associated with open channel flow gauging structures varies according to the type of structure and local conditions. The typical range of uncertainty for all river flow gauges is between 5% and 20%. The Environment Agency specifies through its MCERTS programme that all new flow gauging should ensure that instrument accuracy is no worse than +/- 8% for measured daily mean flow. For modelled natural flow 68% of the flow estimates will be within the margin of +/- 16% for mean flow, +/- 65% for Q95 and +/- 36% for Q70. The minimum monitoring cycle for surveillance and operational flow monitoring is all sites every year and the minimum frequency is every 15 minutes 15 6 Continuous Monitoring every 15 minuets, every year. RW UK0501INVERT River Benthic Invertebrate Fauna Surveillance sites: Macroinvertebrate sites at the downstream extent of water bodies, so that all inputs to the water body can be assessed. Sample sites must not be directly effected by individual inputs. Operational sites: Monitoring is targeted at water bodies reported to be ‘at risk, but where more information is required (1b)’ for pressures that would impact most clearly on macroinvertebdrate communities (based on UKTAG guidance). Significant use has been made of both existing monitoring networks for macroinvertebrates and historical data. Not applicable None None 507 0 QE1-3 Benthic invertebrates 479 RIVER INVERTEBRATE CLASSIFICATION TOOL (RICT): The sampling methods used should be compliant with EN ISO 27828:1994 Water quality – Methods of biological sampling - Guidance on hand net sampling of aquatic benthic macro-invertebrates (ISO 7828:1985) and EN ISO 9391:1995 Water Quality – Sampling in deep waters for macro-invertebrates – Guidance on the use of colonization, qualitative and quantitative samples (ISO 9391:1993) Can achieve 95% confidence of a water body being less than good A minimum of two surveys (one in Spring and one in Autumn) per annum once every three years is recommended 2 2 Twice Per Year, Once every 3 Years, monitored twice in 6 year cycle. RW UK0501MACRO River Macrophytes Sampling of macrophytes in rivers will be targeted at 432 river surveillance water bodies across England and Wales. Local knowledge and health and safety risk assessment will be used to select the most appropriate, representative sampling sites. Sub sites within the MTR method were chosen to be on either side of point sources of pollution, usually sewage treatment works. Scores are then compared. The requirements of WFD to assess the ecology of waterbodies has led to the recommendation to survey 5 separate sites within a water-body. The water-body should be divided into 5 equal sections and 1 survey done in each. The RMNI scores used for classification are then a mean of that set. This is done to minimise the effect of natural macrophyte variation within a water-body. None None 60 0 QE1-2-3 Macrophytes 42 MACROPHYTES (RIVER LEAFPACS): The survey method used should conform to CEN 14184 : 2003 Water quality – Guidance standard for the surveying of aquatic macrophytes in running waters. Can achieve 95% confidence of a water body being less than good A minimum of one survey per year for three years is recommended, each being undertaken at the same time within the survey season (mid-June to mid-September) and after several days of low or low–normal flow. 1 2 Once Per Year, once every 3 Years. Monitored twice in 6 year cycle. RW UK0501MORPH River Morphology Surveillance: Co-located with macro-invertebrate and diatom sites. Not applicable Not applicable. Not applicable None 757 0 QE2-3 Morphological conditions - rivers 737 EN 14614: 2004 Water quality – Guidance standard for assessing the hydromorphological features of rivers The collection of RHS data is quality controlled in a number of ways. All surveyors must be accredited in the field survey methodology. All survey forms are quality checked for omissions and errors prior to being input onto a national database. The database has in-built validation rules in the data input process, ensuring that the database will only accept valid answers and complete records. The data is subject to a final quality check before being validated and accepted as live and active data Surveillance 26 sites will be surveyed as part of a rolling programme over 3 years. 1 1 Monitored once per year, once in 6 years LW UK0502ACID Lakes Acidification Local knowledge and health and safety risk assessment used to select most appropriate, representative sampling site. Shore-based sampling location towards outflow of a lake to collect a sample representative of the whole lake, boat–based samples from the middle of the lake.(detailed instructions at http://intranet/ams_document_library/2007/001_050/19_07.doc) Sub-sites not used – generally assumed that sampling technique will be representative of the water body. Some large lakes split into more than one water body based on morphology. Not applicable None 8 0 QE3-1-5 Acidification status 8 Procedures are UKAS Accredited 95% certainty of failure (with 3 years of monthly data where applicable). Using historical time series data sample frequency and duration was chosen to allow assessment of environmental standard failure with high certainty 12 6 Samples taken monthly on an Annual basis LW UK0502DIATOM Lakes Diatoms Phytobenthos samples will only be collected from lake surveillance programme, these lakes were chosen on the basis of risk assessments and the CIS and UKTAG guidance for surveillance programmes.Generally, a single phytobentyhos (diatoms) sampling site (10 m littoral strip) is considered to be representative of the whole water body for this element and the nutrient priority pressure. Not used for this sub element Not applicable None 8 0 QE1-2-4 Phytobenthos 8 PHYTOBENTHOS - DIATOM ASSESSMENT OF LAKE ECOLOGICAL QUALITY (DARLEQ): The sampling method used should follow the general principles set out in the standard method EN 13946 : 2003 Water quality – Guidance standard for the routine sampling and pre-treatment of benthic diatoms from rivers. The analytical method used should conform to EN 14407 : 2004 Water quality – Guidance standard for the identification, enumeration and interpretation of benthic diatom samples from running waters. Can achieve 95% confidence of a water body being less than good The diatom tool model regressions showed a best fit using sampling windows of April to June and Sept to Nov. It is intended to sample annually at surveillance lake water bodies until 2009. 2 2 Twice Per Year, Once every 3 Years, monitored twice in 6 year cycle. LW UK0502HYDRO Lakes Hydrology Overview:Environmental standards for the regulation of the hydrological regime are generally based on flow statistics. A model is used to estimate the flow at ungauged sites for both the natural reference flow and for scenario flows with different levels of artificial influences. The model is calibrated using a core set of good quality gauging stations. This approach is considered adequate for currently ungauged lake waterbodies. The hydrological regime for lakes has the added complexity of changes in level as well as changes to the inflow and outflow.Surveillance: For flow use modelled flow (model calibrated using a subset of the rivers surveillance network). For levels use the combination of existing and proposed new level monitoring in surveillance lakes. Surveillance lakes have been chosen to represent a cross section of different sensitivity types and geographic distribution.Operational:For flow use modelled flow (model calibrated using a subset of the rivers surveillance network). No specific operational monitoring – will rely on ad hoc investigative monitoring and modelling based on risk assessment. Sub-sites not applied Not applicable None 49 0 QE2-4 Hydrological regime - lakes 46 Procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards +/- 3mm for level gaugingFor modelled natural inflow 68% of the flow estimates will be within the margin of +/- 16% for mean flow, +/- 65% for Q95 and +/- 36% for Q70 For surveillance lakes we will aim to collect at least 3 years (not necessarily consecutive) of monthly level data for each lake in each 6 year planning cycle. This is more frequent than the stated minimum frequency in the Directive but is considered necessary to account for inter-year variability in both the hydrological regime and ecological receptors. Depending on the type of equipment installed some lakes will have a higher frequency of level monitoring. 12 3 Monthly sampling for 3 years during 6 year cycle LW UK0502INVERT Lakes Invertebrates CPET: Spatial analysis has shown that a single lee shore site is representative of a lake water body, site selection is determined from knowledge of wind direction and dynamic risk assessment while visiting the lake.Acid pressure lake macroinvertebrates. The sample station is a section of shoreline of at least 15m long. The station is bordered by the shore and an imaginary line parallel to it, that extends to the maximum wadeable depth of approximately 75cm Sub-sites not used – generally assumed that sampling technique will be representative of the water body. Some large lakes split into more than one water body based on morphology. Not applicable None 12 0 QE1-3 Benthic invertebrates 12 BENTHIC INVERTEBRATE FAUNA LAKE ACIDIFICATION MACROINVERTEBRATE METRIC (LAMM): EN ISO 27828:1994 Water quality – Methods of biological sampling - Guidance on hand net sampling of aquatic benthic macro-invertebrates (ISO 7828:1985) and BENTHIC INVERTEBRATE FAUNA CHIRONOMID PUPAL EXUVIAE TECHNIQUE (CPET): EN 15196:2006 Water Quality – Guidance on the sampling and processing of the pupal exuviae of Chironomidae (Order Diptera) for ecological assessment. Confidence in classification for UK lake methods is determined by the VISCOUS model. This uses the standard deviation and mean of reference sites, the distance of an EQR to the class boundaries and the number of samples taken, to determine confidence of classification. CPET:will produce 95% confidence of class depending on distance from boundary. Lake Acidification tool: The maximum confidence of class achieved by LAMM at clear water lakes, at the mid point of Moderate is 84% (based on one sample) The maximum confidence of class achieved by LAMM at humic water lakes, at the mid point of Moderate/Poor/Bad is 98% (based on one sample) The approach to uncertainty assessment assumes that the estimated mean LAMM EQR is normally distributed with a standard deviation that is a modelled function of EQR. Using the estimated standard deviation and number of samples collected we determine the confidence that the observed mean EQR lies within particular class boundaries. The approach follows that of Ellis (1990) (available at http://publications.environment-agency.gov.uk/epages/eapublications.storefront/4b100774024a67a6273fc0a802960648/Product/View/GEHO1006BLOR&2DE&2DE. In reporting the overall confidence of being worse than Good we use the weight of evidence derived from the status and confidence of each biological tool that is sensitive to the same pressure. CPET: An adequate survey of a lake is considered to be 80-90% representation of the species emerging from April to October. Monthly Tests have determined that this can be obtained by taking 4 samples in different months for lakes. This is based on taking a subsample of 200 skins from each sample.Acid pressure lake macroinvertebrates. Recommendation following R&D review of lake sampling methodologies and the results of replicate sampling from 30 acid stressed lakes (Title R&D Review of Lake Benthic Macroinvertebrate Sampling Methods and Strategy (HO)R&D Technical Report 13765Authors O’Hare, M.T., Tree, A., Neale, M.W., Irvine, K., Gunn, I.D., Jones, J.I. & R.T. Clarke. LAMM: Once a year for 3 years 1 3 LAMM: Monitored once per Year, for 3 years. CPET: Monitored 4 times per year, once every 3 years LW UK0502MACRO Lakes Macrophytes Lakes indicated to be at risk from nutrient pressure were chosen for macrophyte survey though some were rejected as unsuitable due to moprphology or other pressures. All surveillance lakes were chosen for macrophyte survey. Additional sites in Natura 2000 protected areas were also included. For lakes <50ha in area, survey is repeated at 4 locations to include all the main habitats present. At lakes >50ha up to 8 locations are surveyed.Lakes will be divided into the appropriate number of sub-areas and within those areas sites will be chosen to represent suitable habitat for macrophytes using the expert knowledge of the surveyors. These are expected to include any sheltered bays and shallow areas, the number of survey sites will be therefore be proportionate to the complexity of the morphology of the lake. Not applicable None 7 0 QE1-2-3 Macrophytes 7 MACROPHYTES (LAKE LEAFPACS): The surveying method should conform to EN 15460 : 2007 Water quality – Guidance standard for the surveying of macrophytes in lakes. Can achieve 95% confidence of a water body being less than good Surveys are conducted between July and early September to coincide with the greatest expected variety and density of lake macrophytes, many of which over-winter as seeds or vegetative propagules. A minimum of one survey per year for three years is recommended, each being undertaken at the same time within the survey season to compensate for the natural range of variability in macrophyte species 1 3 Once Per Year, for 3 Years LW UK0502MORPH Lakes Morphology LHS will be conducted at surveillance lakes. These lakes were chosen on the basis of risk assessments and UKTAG guidance for the surveillance programmes. N/A Not applicable None 49 0 QE2-5 Morphological conditions - lakes 46 Procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards At this stage the system is based mainly on expert opinion, therefore confidence and precision in this system currently could best be described as moderate. The links between hydromorphological change and ecological impact are poorly understood. As future research examines these relationships, the system will be updated, and both the confidence and precision should improve. Surveillance sites will be monitored once per river basin cycle at the most. 1 1 once per river basin cycle LW UK0502NUT Lakes Nutrients Local knowledge and health and safety risk assessment used to select most appropriate, representative sampling site. Shore-based sampling location towards outflow of a lake to collect a sample representative of the whole lake, boat–based samples from the middle of the lake.(detailed instructions at http://intranet/ams_document_library/2007/001_050/19_07.doc) Sub-sites not used – generally assumed that sampling technique will be representative of the water body. Some large lakes split into more than one water body based on morphology. Not applicable None 27 0 QE3-1-6 Nutrient conditions 27 Procedures are UKAS Accredited 95% certainty of failure (with 3 years of monthly data where applicable). Using historical time series data sample frequency and duration was chosen to allow assessment of environmental standard failure with high certainty 12 6 Samples taken monthly on an Annual basis LW UK0502OXYGEN Lakes Oxygen Local knowledge and health and safety risk assessment used to select most appropriate, representative sampling site. Shore-based sampling location towards outflow of a lake to collect a sample representative of the whole lake, boat–based samples from the middle of the lake.(detailed instructions at http://intranet/ams_document_library/2007/001_050/19_07.doc) Sub-sites not used – generally assumed that sampling technique will be representative of the water body. Some large lakes split into more than one water body based on morphology. Not applicable None 14 0 QE3-1-3 Oxygenation conditions 14 Procedures are UKAS Accredited and Operational instruction 528_06: national standard for taking field measurements: using a multi-parameter meter (ES 024) 95% certainty of failure (with 3 years of monthly data where applicable). Using historical time series data sample frequency and duration was chosen to allow assessment of environmental standard failure with high certainty 12 6 Samples taken monthly on an Annual basis LW UK0502PHYTO Lakes Phytoplankton Local knowledge and health and safety risk assessment used to select most appropriate, representative sampling site. Sub-sites not used – generally assumed that sampling technique will be representative of the water body. Some large lakes split into more than one water body based on morphology. Not applicable None 27 0 QE1-1 Phytoplankton 27 pr EN 15204: Water Quality – Guidance standard for routine analysis of phytoplankton abundance and composition using inverted microscopy (Utermöhl technique). Methods for the Examination of Waters and Associated Materials. Determination of Chlorophyll a in Aquatic Environments 1980.ISBN 0 11751674 0 Method A. Can achieve 95% confidence of a water body being less than good Biomass/chlorophyll-frequency and duration selected from knowledge of annual variability and practicality of site visits 12 2 12 times per year, Once every 3 years. Monitored twice over 6 year cycle. LW UK0502TEMP Lakes Temperature Local knowledge and health and safety risk assessment used to select most appropriate, representative sampling site. Shore-based sampling location towards outflow of a lake to collect a sample representative of the whole lake, boat–based samples from the middle of the lake.(detailed instructions at http://intranet/ams_document_library/2007/001_050/19_07.doc) Sub-sites not used – generally assumed that sampling technique will be representative of the water body. Some large lakes split into more than one water body based on morphology. Not applicable None 14 0 QE3-1-2 Thermal conditions 14 Procedures are UKAS Accredited and Operational instruction 528_06: national standard for taking field measurements: using a multi-parameter meter (ES 024) 95% certainty of failure (with 3 years of monthly data where applicable). Using historical time series data sample frequency and duration was chosen to allow assessment of environmental standard failure with high certainty 12 6 Samples taken monthly on an Annual basis TW UK0503ALGAE Transitional Macroalgae 1. Rocky shores: Will be monitored in all surveillance water bodies that contain appropriate areas of intertidal rocky shore. 2. Opportunistic macroalgae: Will be monitored in surveillance water bodies if the percentage opportunistic macroalgal cover is >5%. The percentage is of the total suitable intertidal area; suitable areas consist of mud, muddy sand, sandy mud, sand, stony mud and mussel beds. The surveillance water bodies include a sub set of water bodies at risk from nutrients. 3. Fucoid extent: Will be monitored in Transitional water bodies within the surveillance plan. The whole water body is referred to as the ‘site’. The number of ‘sub-sites’ sampled will vary by water body depending on: -The number of different areas of rocky shore for rocky shore macroalgae -The number of separate opportunistic algal mat beds -The number of sub-estuaries within a Transitional water body Not applicable None 7 0 QE1-2-1 Macroalgae 7 Opportunistic Macroalgae: The method used should conform to international standard EN 14996 Water Quality - Guidance on assuring the quality of biological and ecological assessments in the aquatic environment. Rocky Shore Macroalgae Reduced Species List and Fucoid Extent use Internal procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards. For Oppertunisic macroalgae 75% confidence of class can be expected. For Rocky Shore macroaglae RSL 85% confidence in class can be expected. Monitoring is once per year, once every three years however oppertunistic macroalgae can be monitored more frequently. Monitoring frequency will be reviewed for the 2nd River Basin Management Plan. 1 2 Once Per Year, Once every 3 Years. Monitored twice in 6 year cycle. TW UK0503ANGIO Transitional Angiosperms All surveillance water bodies that contain areas of seagrass or saltmarsh will be monitored. The whole water body is referred to as the ‘site’. The number of ‘sub-sites’ sampled will vary by water body depending on: -The number of different intertidal seagrass beds within the waterbody -The number of separate areas of saltmarsh within the waterbody Not applicable None 6 0 QE1-2-2 Angiosperms 6 The method used should conform to international standard EN 14996 Water Quality - Guidance on assuring the quality of biological and ecological assessments in the aquatic environment. Seagrass Levels of confidence and precision are currently being determined. Not enough data has been collected to quantify inter-annual variation in many waterbodies yet but good confidence of class is expected once 5 years data has been collected. Saltmarsh The classification tool is still under development. Annual monitoring for Seagrass has been selected to gather baseline information on inter-annual variation and to increase levels of confidence. Saltmarsh is monitored once per year, once very 3 years. Monitoring frequency will be reviewed for the 2nd River Basin Management Plan. 1 2 Saltmarsh: Once Per year, Once every 3 years. Monitored twice in 6 year cycle. Seagrass: Once Per year, every year in 6 year cycle TW UK0503ANN10 Transitional Annex 10 This QE will be monitored in all Surveillance water bodies, which include a sub-set of water bodies at risk from hazardous substances. Additionally some Annex 8 substances will be monitored for Operational purposes at existing Dangerous Substances Directive and Shellfish Waters Directive monitoring points. This is not applicable. Not applicable None 105 0 QE3-2 Priority Substances 22 ISO 5667 Part 1 Guidance on the design of sampling programmes. Procedures are UKAS Accredited Three-year data sets comprised of 36 samples are used to assess status and to check compliance with objectives. 36 samples derive 95% confidence at the 90%ile. The competent authority (Environment Agency, England and Wales) has used a frequency of twelve samples per year (monthly) for over twenty years. Monthly sampling has been found adequate to assess seasonal variations and when combined into a three-year data set the programme delivers a confidence of 95%. A consistent monitoring frequency allows simple data comparison between water bodies, catchments and River Basin Districts. For administrative purposes a fixed sampling frequency is most efficient and will simplify the management of monitoring programmes. 12 6 Samples taken monthly on an Annual basis TW UK0503ANN8 Transitional Annex 8 This QE will be monitored in all Surveillance water bodies, which include a sub-set of water bodies at risk from hazardous substances. Additionally some Annex 8 substances will be monitored for Operational purposes at existing Dangerous Substances Directive and Shellfish Waters Directive monitoring points. This is not applicable. Not applicable None 24 0 QE3-3 Non priority specific pollutants 13 ISO 5667 Part 1 Guidance on the design of sampling programmes. Procedures are UKAS Accredited Three-year data sets comprised of 36 samples are used to assess status and to check compliance with objectives. 36 samples derive 95% confidence at the 90%ile. The competent authority (Environment Agency, England and Wales) has used a frequency of twelve samples per year (monthly) for over twenty years. Monthly sampling has been found adequate to assess seasonal variations and when combined into a three-year data set the programme delivers a confidence of 95%. A consistent monitoring frequency allows simple data comparison between water bodies, catchments and River Basin Districts. For administrative purposes a fixed sampling frequency is most efficient and will simplify the management of monitoring programmes. 12 6 Samples taken monthly on an Annual basis TW UK0503FISH Transitional Fish TraC water bodies were chosen to cover the range of water body types and pressures in England and Wales. Within each water body, fish sampling sites will be chosen with reference to hydrographic knowledge and health and safety risk assessments. The number of netting and trawling sites will be determined by the size and shape of the water body. Netting sites can be considered as sub sites representing the transitional water body. Not applicable None 3 0 QE1-4 Fish 3 Fish Transitional Waters: EN 14757:2005 Water quality – Sampling of fish with multi-mesh gill nets and EN 14962:2006 Water Quality – Guidance on the scope and selection of fish-sampling methods Work is still underway to determine this but, good confidence of class is expected depending on distance from the class boundary values. Expect to be around 70% confident of class at mid class position. From studies of repeat surveys, and knowledge of fish life cycle, sampling windows of May to July and Sept to October should produce representative species lists and size distributions for each transitional water. 2 3 Monitoring Twice Per Year for 3 Years TW UK0503GEN Transitional physico-chemistry Each monitored water body will have between 3 and 5 phyisco-chemical monitoring locations, depending upon relative size. Wherever possible, Shellfish Water Directive and Dangerous Substance Directive National Network sample points have been identified for WFD sampling. The rest of the sites within a water body use other Directives or other previously used sample points. The Surveillance water column sites deliberately aim to avoid using sample points directly associated with discharges. Sampling sites are located outside of the mixing zone of any point-source discharge. This is not applicable. One physico-chemical monitoring site does not have sub-sites. Not applicable None 209 0 QE3-1General Parameters 139 ISO 5667 Part 1 Guidance on the design of sampling programmes. Procedures are UKAS Accredited Three-year data sets comprised of 36 samples are used to assess status and to check compliance with objectives. 36 samples derive 95% confidence at the 90%ile. The competent authority (Environment Agency, England and Wales) has used a frequency of twelve samples per year (monthly) for over twenty years. Monthly sampling has been found adequate to assess seasonal variations and when combined into a three-year data set the programme delivers a confidence of 95%. A consistent monitoring frequency allows simple data comparison between water bodies, catchments and River Basin Districts. For administrative purposes a fixed sampling frequency is most efficient and will simplify the management of monitoring programmes. 12 6 Samples taken monthly on an Annual basis TW UK0503HYDRO Transitional Hydrology Overview: Environmental standards for the regulation of the hydrological regime are generally based on flow statistics. A model is used to estimate the flow at ungauged sites for both the natural reference flow and for scenario flows with different levels of artificial influences. The model is calibrated using a core set of good quality gauging stations. This approach is considered adequate for currently ungauged transitional waterbodies. Surveillance: Use modelled flow (model calibrated using a subset of the rivers surveillance network) Operational: Use modelled flow (model calibrated using a subset of the rivers surveillance network) with ad hoc investigative monitoring based on risk assessment and subject to feasibility. Sub-sites not applied Not applicable None 18 0 QE2-7 Tidal regime - transitional waters 18 Procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards This QE is relevant to the classification of High Status water bodies. Levels of confidence have not yet been quantified but we generally expect to be able to determine whether this QE is at High Status or less than High Status with good confidence for most water bodies. Confidence may be reduced if a water body is very close to the High / Good boundary. This QE will be assessed at a minimum frequency of once every 6 years. This frequency is considered sufficient to monitor long term trends and is consistent with the River Basin Planning cycle. In addition to the WFD surveillance monitoring, investigative monitoring will be carried out as and when needed as part of the Licensing and Environmental Impact Assessment procedure for new morphological pressures. 1 1 once per river basin cycle TW UK0503INVERT Transitional Invertebrates Soft sediment macrobenthic community analysis This sub quality element will be monitored in all surveillance water bodies that have fine sediment habitats. For operational purposes, benthic invertebrates will be monitored in a sub-set of water bodies at risk from water quality and morphological pressures such as organic enrichment and dredging. To increase efficiency, representative operational water bodies have been selected that coincide with Surveillance or existing National monitoring sites. Imposex assessment This sub quality element will be monitored in water bodies that have rocky shore habitats and are at risk from TBT pressure. Soft sediment macrobenthic community analysis The whole water body is referred to as the ‘site’. Multiple samples will be taken within each water body and these can be called ‘sub-sites’. The number of samples depends on the size of water body: -15 samples will be taken in Transitional water bodies less than 400 ha and Coastal water bodies less than 4000 ha. -30 samples will be taken in Transitional water bodies between 400 and 2000 ha, and Coastal water bodies between 4000 and 20000 ha. -45 samples will be taken in Transitional water bodies greater than 2000 ha and Coastal water bodies greater than 20000 ha. Samples will be spread widely throughout the waterbody and will be targeted at specific habitat types. If a water body is being monitored for operational reasons, some replicates will be located around the pressure. Not applicable None 158 0 QE1-3 Benthic invertebrates 155 Benthic Invertebrate Infaunal Quality Index (IQI): EN ISO 16665:2005 Water quality – Guidelines for quantitative investigations of marine soft-bottom benthic fauna in the marine environment. BENTHIC INVERTEBRATE FAUNA DOG WHELKS (Nucella lapillus) - IMPOSEX ASSESSMENT: procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards Soft sediment macrobenthic community analysis: Taking 15 samples equates roughly to being able to detect a change in mean IQI values of 0.1 with a confidence of around 75%. The confidence and precision at each site will depend on the inherent variability of the habitat sampled and the distance from the class boundary values. Soft sediment macrobenthic community analysis Historical data was subjected to power analysis to determine frequency required for high confidence assessment. Sampling once per year. Imposex assessment Monitoring of Nucella lapillus, to assess imposex, will use samples taken for OSPAR requirements. Therefore monitoring frequency will follow the OSPAR frequency. This is to minimise impact on dogwhelk populations from over sampling. Once every 3 years. 1 2 Once Per Year, Once every 3 Years, monitored twice in 6 year cycle. TW UK0503MORPH Transitional Morphology This QE will be assessed using maps and datasets that cover wide areas rather than specific sites. As a minimum, a detailed assessment will be made of all Surveillance water bodies. The number of sites that will also be assessed for Operational or Investigative purposes has not yet been determined. Not applicable for this QE. Not applicable None 18 0 QE2-6 Morphological conditions - transitional and coastal waters 18 Procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards This QE is relevant to the classification of High Status water bodies. Levels of confidence have not yet been quantified but we generally expect to be able to determine whether this QE is at High Status or less than High Status with good confidence for most water bodies. Confidence may be reduced if a water body is very close to the High / Good boundary. This QE will be assessed at a minimum frequency of once every 6 years. This frequency is considered sufficient to monitor long term trends and is consistent with the River Basin Planning cycle. In addition to the WFD surveillance monitoring, investigative monitoring will be carried out as and when needed as part of the Licensing and Environmental Impact Assessment procedure for new morphological pressures. 1 1 once per river basin cycle TW UK0503PHYTO Transitional Phytoplankton This quality element will be monitored in all surveillance water bodies, which include a sub set of water bodies at risk from nutrients. The whole water body is referred to as the ‘site’. Multiple samples will be taken within each water body and these can be called ‘sub-sites’. The number of samples depends on the size of water body: -3 samples will be taken in Transitional water bodies less than 400 ha and Coastal water bodies less than 4000 ha. -A minimum of 5 samples will be taken in Transitional water bodies above 400 ha, and Coastal water bodies above 4000 ha. Not applicable None 15 0 QE1-1 Phytoplankton 25 pr EN 15204: Water Quality – Guidance standard for routine analysis of phytoplankton abundance and composition using inverted microscopy (Utermöhl technique) For the phytoplankton multi-metric overall 75% to 95% confidence in class is expected. A level of 80-95% confidence is expected for the chlorophyll sub-metric of this element (dependant on location and sample size), based on power analysis of historic time-series data. A level of 60-90% confidence is expected for the Elevated count sub-metric and A level of 60-80% confidence is expected for the Seasonal Succession sub-metric. A minimum of monthly sampling has been selected because: -Some sub-metrics look for a signal in the change in seasonality of various components of the community. -To obtain sufficient samples over a 6 year period to achieve good confidence of class. Historical time-series data was subjected to power analysis to estimate number of samples required. 12 6 12 times Per year, Every Year for 6 Years CW UK0504ALGAE Coastal macroalgae 1. Rocky shores: Will be monitored in all surveillance water bodies that contain appropriate areas of intertidal rocky shore. 2. Opportunistic macroalgae: Will be monitored in surveillance water bodies if the percentage opportunistic macroalgal cover is >5%. The percentage is of the total suitable intertidal area; suitable areas consist of mud, muddy sand, sandy mud, sand, stony mud and mussel beds. The surveillance water bodies include a sub set of water bodies at risk from nutrients. 3. Fucoid extent: Will be monitored in Transitional water bodies within the surveillance plan. The whole water body is referred to as the ‘site’. The number of ‘sub-sites’ sampled will vary by water body depending on: -The number of different areas of rocky shore for rocky shore macroalgae -The number of separate opportunistic algal mat beds -The number of sub-estuaries within a Transitional water body Not applicable None 4 0 QE1-2-1 Macroalgae 4 Opportunistic Macroalgae: The method used should conform to international standard EN 14996 Water Quality - Guidance on assuring the quality of biological and ecological assessments in the aquatic environment. Rocky Shore Macroalgae Reduced Species List and Fucoid Extent use Internal procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards. For Oppertunisic macroalgae 75% confidence of class can be expected. For Rocky Shore macroaglae RSL 85% confidence in class can be expected. Monitoring is once per year, once every three years however oppertunistic macroalgae can be monitored more frequently. Monitoring frequency will be reviewed for the 2nd River Basin Management Plan. 1 2 Once Per Year, Once every 3 Years. Monitored twice in 6 year cycle. CW UK0504ANGIO Coastal Angiosperms All surveillance water bodies that contain areas of seagrass or saltmarsh will be monitored. The whole water body is referred to as the ‘site’. The number of ‘sub-sites’ sampled will vary by water body depending on: -The number of different intertidal seagrass beds within the waterbody -The number of separate areas of saltmarsh within the waterbody Not applicable None 1 0 QE1-2-2 Angiosperms 6 The method used should conform to international standard EN 14996 Water Quality - Guidance on assuring the quality of biological and ecological assessments in the aquatic environment. Seagrass Levels of confidence and precision are currently being determined. Not enough data has been collected to quantify inter-annual variation in many waterbodies yet but good confidence of class is expected once 5 years data has been collected. Saltmarsh The classification tool is still under development. Annual monitoring for Seagrass has been selected to gather baseline information on inter-annual variation and to increase levels of confidence. Saltmarsh is monitored once per year, once very 3 years. Monitoring frequency will be reviewed for the 2nd River Basin Management Plan. 1 2 Saltmarsh: Once Per year, Once every 3 years. Monitored twice in 6 year cycle. Seagrass: Once Per year, every year in 6 year cycle CW UK0504ANN10 Coastal Annex 10 This QE will be monitored in all Surveillance water bodies, which include a sub-set of water bodies at risk from hazardous substances. Additionally some Annex 8 substances will be monitored for Operational purposes at existing Dangerous Substances Directive and Shellfish Waters Directive monitoring points. This is not applicable. Not applicable None 15 0 QE3-2 Priority Substances 4 ISO 5667 Part 1 Guidance on the design of sampling programmes. Procedures are UKAS Accredited Three-year data sets comprised of 36 samples are used to assess status and to check compliance with objectives. 36 samples derive 95% confidence at the 90%ile. The competent authority (Environment Agency, England and Wales) has used a frequency of twelve samples per year (monthly) for over twenty years. Monthly sampling has been found adequate to assess seasonal variations and when combined into a three-year data set the programme delivers a confidence of 95%. A consistent monitoring frequency allows simple data comparison between water bodies, catchments and River Basin Districts. For administrative purposes a fixed sampling frequency is most efficient and will simplify the management of monitoring programmes. 12 6 Samples taken monthly on an Annual basis CW UK0504ANN8 Coastal Annex8 This QE will be monitored in all Surveillance water bodies, which include a sub-set of water bodies at risk from hazardous substances. Additionally some Annex 8 substances will be monitored for Operational purposes at existing Dangerous Substances Directive and Shellfish Waters Directive monitoring points. This is not applicable. Not applicable None 9 0 QE3-3 Non priority specific pollutants 5 ISO 5667 Part 1 Guidance on the design of sampling programmes. Procedures are UKAS Accredited Three-year data sets comprised of 36 samples are used to assess status and to check compliance with objectives. 36 samples derive 95% confidence at the 90%ile. The competent authority (Environment Agency, England and Wales) has used a frequency of twelve samples per year (monthly) for over twenty years. Monthly sampling has been found adequate to assess seasonal variations and when combined into a three-year data set the programme delivers a confidence of 95%. A consistent monitoring frequency allows simple data comparison between water bodies, catchments and River Basin Districts. For administrative purposes a fixed sampling frequency is most efficient and will simplify the management of monitoring programmes. 12 6 Samples taken monthly on an Annual basis CW UK0504GEN Coastal physico-chemical Each monitored water body will have between 3 and 5 phyisco-chemical monitoring locations, depending upon relative size. Wherever possible, Shellfish Water Directive and Dangerous Substance Directive National Network sample points have been identified for WFD sampling. The rest of the sites within a water body use other Directives or other previously used sample points. The Surveillance water column sites deliberately aim to avoid using sample points directly associated with discharges. Sampling sites are located outside of the mixing zone of any point-source discharge. This is not applicable. One physico-chemical monitoring site does not have sub-sites. Not applicable None 277 0 QE3-1General Parameters 10 ISO 5667 Part 1 Guidance on the design of sampling programmes. Procedures are UKAS Accredited Three-year data sets comprised of 36 samples are used to assess status and to check compliance with objectives. 36 samples derive 95% confidence at the 90%ile. The competent authority (Environment Agency, England and Wales) has used a frequency of twelve samples per year (monthly) for over twenty years. Monthly sampling has been found adequate to assess seasonal variations and when combined into a three-year data set the programme delivers a confidence of 95%. A consistent monitoring frequency allows simple data comparison between water bodies, catchments and River Basin Districts. For administrative purposes a fixed sampling frequency is most efficient and will simplify the management of monitoring programmes. 12 6 Samples taken monthly on an Annual basis CW UK0504INVERT Coastal Invertebrates Soft sediment macrobenthic community analysis: This sub quality element will be monitored in all surveillance water bodies that have fine sediment habitats. For operational purposes, benthic invertebrates will be monitored in a sub-set of water bodies at risk from water quality and morphological pressures such as organic enrichment and dredging. To increase efficiency, representative operational water bodies have been selected that coincide with Surveillance or existing National monitoring sites. Imposex assessment: This sub quality element will be monitored in water bodies that have rocky shore habitats and are at risk from TBT pressure. Soft sediment macrobenthic community analysis The whole water body is referred to as the ‘site’. Multiple samples will be taken within each water body and these can be called ‘sub-sites’. The number of samples depends on the size of water body: -15 samples will be taken in Transitional water bodies less than 400 ha and Coastal water bodies less than 4000 ha. -30 samples will be taken in Transitional water bodies between 400 and 2000 ha, and Coastal water bodies between 4000 and 20000 ha. -45 samples will be taken in Transitional water bodies greater than 2000 ha and Coastal water bodies greater than 20000 ha. Samples will be spread widely throughout the waterbody and will be targeted at specific habitat types. If a water body is being monitored for operational reasons, some replicates will be located around the pressure. Not applicable None 69 0 QE1-3 Benthic invertebrates 69 Benthic Invertebrate Infaunal Quality Index (IQI): EN ISO 16665:2005 Water quality – Guidelines for quantitative investigations of marine soft-bottom benthic fauna in the marine environment. BENTHIC INVERTEBRATE FAUNA DOG WHELKS (Nucella lapillus) - IMPOSEX ASSESSMENT: procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards Soft sediment macrobenthic community analysis: Taking 15 samples equates roughly to being able to detect a change in mean IQI values of 0.1 with a confidence of around 75%. The confidence and precision at each site will depend on the inherent variability of the habitat sampled and the distance from the class boundary values. Soft sediment macrobenthic community analysis Historical data was subjected to power analysis to determine frequency required for high confidence assessment. Sampling once per year. Imposex assessment Monitoring of Nucella lapillus, to assess imposex, will use samples taken for OSPAR requirements. Therefore monitoring frequency will follow the OSPAR frequency. This is to minimise impact on dogwhelk populations from over sampling. Once every 3 years. 1 2 Once Per Year, Once every 3 Years, monitored twice in 6 year cycle. CW UK0504MORPH Coastal Morphology This QE will be assessed using maps and datasets that cover wide areas rather than specific sites. As a minimum, a detailed assessment will be made of all Surveillance water bodies. The number of sites that will also be assessed for Operational or Investigative purposes has not yet been determined. Not applicable for this QE. Not applicable None 11 0 QE2-6 Morphological conditions - transitional and coastal waters 11 Procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards This QE is relevant to the classification of High Status water bodies. Levels of confidence have not yet been quantified but we generally expect to be able to determine whether this QE is at High Status or less than High Status with good confidence for most water bodies. Confidence may be reduced if a water body is very close to the High / Good boundary. This QE will be assessed at a minimum frequency of once every 6 years. This frequency is considered sufficient to monitor long term trends and is consistent with the River Basin Planning cycle. In addition to the WFD surveillance monitoring, investigative monitoring will be carried out as and when needed as part of the Licensing and Environmental Impact Assessment procedure for new morphological pressures. 1 1 once per river basin cycle CW UK0504PHYTO Coastal Phytoplankton This quality element will be monitored in all surveillance water bodies, which include a sub set of water bodies at risk from nutrients. The whole water body is referred to as the ‘site’. Multiple samples will be taken within each water body and these can be called ‘sub-sites’. The number of samples depends on the size of water body: -3 samples will be taken in Transitional water bodies less than 400 ha and Coastal water bodies less than 4000 ha. -A minimum of 5 samples will be taken in Transitional water bodies above 400 ha, and Coastal water bodies above 4000 ha. Not applicable None 10 0 QE1-1 Phytoplankton 16 pr EN 15204: Water Quality – Guidance standard for routine analysis of phytoplankton abundance and composition using inverted microscopy (Utermöhl technique) For the phytoplankton multi-metric overall 75% to 95% confidence in class is expected. A level of 80-95% confidence is expected for the chlorophyll sub-metric of this element (dependant on location and sample size), based on power analysis of historic time-series data. A level of 60-90% confidence is expected for the Elevated count sub-metric and A level of 60-80% confidence is expected for the Seasonal Succession sub-metric. A minimum of monthly sampling has been selected because: -Some sub-metrics look for a signal in the change in seasonality of various components of the community. -To obtain sufficient samples over a 6 year period to achieve good confidence of class. Historical time-series data was subjected to power analysis to estimate number of samples required. 12 6 12 times Per year, Every Year for 6 Years Investigative monitoring is required when status is confirmed at worse than good, or has deteriorated in status where it is unclear as to the cause of the failure or deterioration. In addition, pollution incidents of sufficient magnitude to threaten the status of a water body will trigger investigative monitoring, this is covered in the Environment Agency incident procedure manual. The Environment Agency has a number of monitoring programmes to investigate particular pressures such as diffuse pollution, sheep dip and pesticide. GE1-1 Groundwater level Water Level measured either manually by groundwater level dipper or automatically using transducer/transmitter with data logger.Units Meters AOD (Above Ordnance Daturm) Not applicable Not applicable Internal procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards Minimum resolution of measurement +/- 5mm GE2-3 Conductivity Electrical Conductivity measured in the field (in situ) using portable pH meter. EC is determined in a cell of known dimensions and is reported in microsiemens/cm. In situ measurement either using flow through cell or in inert sample vessel with minimal disturbance Portable field meter (see how measured) Internal procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and ISO 5667 Accuracy typically +/- 1% of reading GE2-4 Nitrate Calculated value as difference between laboratory measured concentrations of total oxidised nitrogen (TON) and nitrite. Samples collected using national sampling procedures based on ISO 5667 Nitrate reduced to nitrite by hydrazine under alkaline conditions. The total nitrite is then treated with sulphanamide and N-1-naphthylethylene diamine dihydrochloride under acidic conditions to form a pink azodye. The intensity of this dye is measured colorimetrically and is directly proportional to the concentration of TON. Nitrate is calculated as the difference between TON and nitrite (analysed using the same method but without reduction of nitrate). Internal procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and ISO 5667. Laboratory is ISO 17025 accredited. Level of detection = 0.03 mg/l (as N), reporting limit = <0.2 mg/l (as N) GE2-1 Oxygen content Dissolved Oxygen measured in the field (in situ) using portable DO meter in accordance with national sampling procedures and ISO 5667 In situ measurement either using flow through cell or in inert sample vessel with minimal disturbance Portable field meter (see how measured) Internal procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and ISO 5667 Accuracy typically +/- 0.3 mg/l O2 or +/- 3.5% %O2 GE2-2 pH Value pH measured in the field (in situ) and in the laboratory using portable pH meter. pH is determined by measuring the electromotive force (emf) of a cell containing groundwater and comparing it with the emf of a similar cell containing standards. In situ measurement either using flow through cell or in inert sample vessel with minimal disturbance Portable field meter (see how measured) Internal procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and ISO 5667 Accuracy typically +/- 0.1 pH units (field) or +/- 0.05 pH units (lab) GE2-5 Ammonium Sample analysis carried out in laboratory Samples collected using national sampling procedures based on ISO 5667 Ammonia reacts with hypochlorite ions, generated in situ by the alkaline hydrolysis of sodium dichloroisocyanurate to form monochloramine. This reacts with salicylate ions at about pH 12.6 in the presence of sodium nitroprusside to form a blue indophenol - type compound. The absorbance of this compound is measured spectrophotometrically at 660nm and is related to the ammonia concentration by means of a calibration curve. Sodium citrate is added to mask possible interfering cations. Internal procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and ISO 5667. Laboratory is ISO 17025 accredited. Level of detection = 0.00126 mg/l (as N), level of reporting < 0.004 mg/l (as N) GE3 Other pollutants Groundwater samples analysed in laboratory Samples collected using national sampling procedures based on ISO 5667 Various accredited methods used dependent on parameter. Internal procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and ISO 5667. Laboratory is ISO 17025 accredited. Levels of detection/quantification better than 1/10th of any threshold value GWL_EW_05 Groundwater Level - England and Wales R Y N N The programme and network of sites has been designed following the development of a conceptual model, risk assessment and characterisation of each groundwater body (or group of bodies). Sites are purpose designed water level observation boreholes/piezometers. The configuration of the Groundwater Level Monitoring Network for the WFD will embrace the principle of grouping. Groundwater bodies may be grouped if they are sufficiently similar in terms of aquifer characteristics and are subject to similar pressures. That is groups of groundwater bodies must be of the same dominant aquifer type, i.e. Principal or Secondary and be assessed as being of the same risk category (identified in RBC1 risk assessment). Sites have been selected following the development of conceptual model, risk assessment and characterisation of each groundwater body. Potential sites identified and then assessed for suitability in terms of meeting the objectives of the monitoring programme(s). Sites must also fulfill the quality criteria set out in EU monitoring guidance. Not Applicable Not Applicable Not Applicable None 170 107 0 GE1-1 Groundwater level 173 Water Level measured either manually by groundwater level dipper or automatically using transducer/transmitter with data logger.Units Meters AOD (Above Ordnance Daturm) Not applicable Internal procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and British Standards Minimum resolution of measurement +/- 5mm Frequency of measurement based on conceptual understanding of groundwater system, historical data, risk assessment and characterisation of each groundwater body. 4 1 Based on RBMP cycle GWQ_EW_05 Groundwater Quality - England and Wales R N Y Y The programme and network of sites has been designed following a set of national principles that complies with EU guidance for WFD monitoring. The main elements for design of the proramme are: conceptual model development, assessment of risk to groundwater body and characterisation; identification of potential sites within body sufficient to give adequate overview of groundwater quality; assessment and selection of sites taking to account representativity and QA factors; risk-based approach to selection of appropriate parameters an frequency of measurement; selection of analytical techniques and reporting tools to enable accurate and reliable data reporting and to meet, at least, minimum WFD requirements. Sites have been selected following the development of conceptual model, risk assessment and characterisation of each groundwater body. Potential sites identified and then assessed for suitability in terms of meeting the objectives of the monitoring programme(s). Sites must also fulfill the quality criteria set out in EU monitoring guidance. Not Applicable Need to ensure all parameters relevant to DWPA objectives are included. All GWB are DWPA Not Applicable None 384 107 0 GE2-5 Ammonium 373 Sample analysis carried out in laboratory Samples collected using national sampling procedures based on ISO 5667 Internal procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and ISO 5667. Laboratory is ISO 17025 accredited. Level of detection = 0.00126 mg/l (as N), level of reporting < 0.004 mg/l (as N) Frequency of measurement based on conceptual understanding of groundwater system and its behaviour, historical monitoring data, risk assessment and characterisation of each groundwater body. 1 1 Based on RBMP cycle GE3 Other pollutants 373 Groundwater samples analysed in laboratory Samples collected using national sampling procedures based on ISO 5667 Internal procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and ISO 5667. Laboratory is ISO 17025 accredited. Levels of detection/quantification better than 1/10th of any threshold value Frequency of measurement based on conceptual understanding of groundwater system and its behaviour, historical monitoring data, risk assessment and characterisation of each groundwater body. 1 1 Based on RBMP cycle GE2-1 Oxygen content 373 Dissolved Oxygen measured in the field (in situ) using portable DO meter in accordance with national sampling procedures and ISO 5667 In situ measurement either using flow through cell or in inert sample vessel with minimal disturbance Internal procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and ISO 5667 Accuracy typically +/- 0.3 mg/l O2 or +/- 3.5% %O2 Frequency of measurement based on conceptual understanding of groundwater system and its behaviour, historical monitoring data, risk assessment and characterisation of each groundwater body. 1 1 Based on RBMP cycle GE2-2 pH Value 372 pH measured in the field (in situ) and in the laboratory using portable pH meter. pH is determined by measuring the electromotive force (emf) of a cell containing groundwater and comparing it with the emf of a similar cell containing standards. In situ measurement either using flow through cell or in inert sample vessel with minimal disturbance Internal procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and ISO 5667 Accuracy typically +/- 0.1 pH units (field) or +/- 0.05 pH units (lab) Frequency of measurement based on conceptual understanding of groundwater system and its behaviour, historical monitoring data, risk assessment and characterisation of each groundwater body. 1 1 Based on RBMP cycle GE2-3 Conductivity 372 Electrical Conductivity measured in the field (in situ) using portable pH meter. EC is determined in a cell of known dimensions and is reported in microsiemens/cm. In situ measurement either using flow through cell or in inert sample vessel with minimal disturbance Internal procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and ISO 5667 Accuracy typically +/- 1% of reading Frequency of measurement based on conceptual understanding of groundwater system and its behaviour, historical monitoring data, risk assessment and characterisation of each groundwater body. 1 1 Based on RBMP cycle GE2-4 Nitrate 372 Calculated value as difference between laboratory measured concentrations of total oxidised nitrogen (TON) and nitrite. Samples collected using national sampling procedures based on ISO 5667 Internal procedures adopted compliant with national sampling procedures and ISO 5667. Laboratory is ISO 17025 accredited. Level of detection = 0.03 mg/l (as N), reporting limit = <0.2 mg/l (as N) Frequency of measurement based on conceptual understanding of groundwater system and its behaviour, historical monitoring data, risk assessment and characterisation of each groundwater body. 1 1 Based on RBMP cycle