Adaptive management of river flows in Europe: A transferable framework for implementation

- We propose a new framework for implementing adaptive management of river flows.
- The framework ensures compliance with Water Framework Directive constraints.
- The framework is transferable to other regions of the world.
- The structured approach to learning should lead to better management decisions.
- Implementing effective monitoring design will produce transferable results.

SummaryThe evidence base for defining flow regimes to support healthy river ecosystems is weak, as there are few studies which quantify the ecological impact associated with different degrees of hydrological alteration. As a result, river flow standards used to manage water abstraction are largely based on expert judgement. Planned adaptive management studies on multiple rivers under the European Water Framework Directive represent an opportunity to learn about ecological flow requirements and improve the quantitative evidence base. However, identifying clear ecological responses to flow alteration can be a significant challenge, because of the complexity of river systems and the other factors which may confound the response. This paper describes the Adaptive River Management (ARM) framework, a flexible framework for implementing adaptive management of river flows that is transferable to other regions of the world. Application of the framework will ensure that the effectiveness of implemented management actions is appraised and that transferable quantitative data are collected that can be used in other geographical regions.