Hydromorphology, the forgotten facet of the Water Framework Directive

Thursday, September 20, 2018

Are we overlooking key pressures in our efforts to improve the ecosystem health of Europe's waters? asks Valerie Houlden

Hydromorphology combines the disciplines of hydrology and geomorphology – two fascinating areas, so what’s not to love? I can’t help wondering, however, whether hydromorphology is being side-lined in the management of Europe’s water environment. With the ever increasing pressures of climate change and changes in politics, society and the economy, restoring natural habitats in our water environment is not often a priority. This is despite the fact that hydromorphology supports the varied flora and fauna of our waters. Good hydromorphological function is an essential element of ecosystem health and underpins the delivery of many ecosystem services and benefits for society.
 
 

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