Catchment Science Desk Study and Field Based Assessment

Tender description

The EPA is responsible for characterisation outlined in Article 5 of the Water Framework Directive (WFD). The EPA, supported by the relevant local authorities (LAs) shall advice and assist in the establishment of environmental objectives, programmes of measures (PoMs) and the making of the RBMP scheduled for completion in 2017. The EPA is planning on using a three tier risk characterisation approach so that the level of assessment effort is commensurate with the level of risk posed. Tier 1 is a screening exercise and each successive tier encompasses more focussed analyses and assessments, at more detailed scales. The aim is to rule out water bodies and potential pressures that are not significant, so that the particular pressures causing the risk of failing the WFD objectives can be identified and mitigated. These mitigation measures will form the PoMs. In order to characterise the water bodies and develop appropriate PoMs a large body of data and background information is required in the following areas: • Hydrogeology • Hydrology • Hydrochemistry • Hydromorphology • Discharges to water • Abstractions • Land use • Water quality • Mitigation measures To broaden the extent of current datasets and knowledge, data collection, data collation, data verification, surveying, monitoring and interpretation of data relating to the areas listed above may be required. Assistance is being sought through a Catchment Science Desk Study and Field Based Assessment Framework. The Framework, which will apply for 4 years, may also seek services for other duties falling under this remit including the preparation of guidance and other awareness activities to promote catchment management.