Page 40 - Freshwater-Biology-and-Ecology-Handbook

CHAPTER 1 2.4 2.4 Monitoring frequency

Monitoring frequency is determined by a number of factors, including

variability as a result of the natural variability of the quality element
parameter, and natural and anthropogenic pressures.

These form the basis for the statutory requirements for or expert judgement’, but monitoring for all biological and
surveillance monitoring specified in Section 1.3 of WFD's hydromorphological quality elements must be undertaken
Annex V. The frequencies for surveillance monitoring are ‘at least once during the surveillance monitoring period’,
set out in Table 1.3. These intervals can be exceeded if longer ie in every 6-yearly River Basin Management Plan cycle.
intervals can be ‘justified on the basis of technical knowledge

Table 1.3
Surveillance monitoring frequencies, from WFD Annex V

Quality element Rivers Lakes Transitional Coastal

Biological

Phytoplankton 6 months 6 months 6 months 6 months

Other aquatic flora 3 years 3 years 3 years 3 years

Macroinvertebrates 3 years 3 years 3 years 3 years

Fish 3 years 3 years 3 years

40 | Freshwater Biology and Ecology Handbook
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