Implementation of the water framework directive – can we use models as a tool in integrated river basin management?

Abstract

The implementation of the Water Framework Directive requires adjustment of the administrative structure for the water management in each of the Member States. Modifications of the procedures for river basin management are also foreseen. Today, river basin management in Denmark is for the most part carried out at regional levels (in 14 counties) and the environmental problems for freshwater systems in Denmark are mainly associated with diffuse pollution sources (primarily originating from agriculture) and pollution with pesticides and other xeno‐biotics. Viewed in the context of the Directive river basin models may play an important role for a successful water administration – being tools in the technical solutions for how to achieve “good status” for groundwater and surface waters. In Denmark integrated river basin modelling is used in connection with restoration projects, also empirical models are widely used. The benefits from applying river basin models are manifold. Besides being able to evaluate “good status” for freshwater bodies based on hydrology, land‐use, agricultural practices and ecology of individual river stretches (including lakes and wetlands), modelling can also identify solutions for flood/drought problems in combination with defining protection measures for the aquatic environment.

Keywords:

• Water management
• water framework directive
• model
• water quality