THE LEADING LABORATORY NETWORK IN HYDROMORPHOLOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION STUDIES
What is hydromorphology and hydromorphological indicators?
Hydromorphology forms the foundation of any river system, as it acts as the organizing axis of the biological communities and processes that occur within it.
Hydromorphological indicators allow for the analysis, on one hand, of the differences between the current hydrological and geomorphological characteristics of rivers and, on the other, the conditions they would have in a natural state, unaltered by human activities. This analysis is key to ensuring the proper functioning of the river ecosystem.
According to the WFD, hydromorphological characterization includes the analysis of the indicators hydrological regime associated with ecosystems, fluvial continuity, and river morphological conditions.
The Eurofins Environment Testing Spain laboratory network has extensive experience in hydromorphological assessment in most hydrographic demarcations (Ebro, Tajo, Mediterranean Andalusian Internal Basins, Atlantic Andalusian Internal Basins, Segura, Guadiana, Miño-Sil…).
Applicability of the Hydromorphological Protocol
The hydromorphological protocol (M-R-HMF-2019) is a fundamental element for the application of the provisions established in compliance with the Directive 2000/60/EC, Water Framework Directive, in relation to the official networks for assessing ecological status/potential that are utilized by various Basin Agencies. The assessment of hydromorphological quality elements will allow differentiation between water bodies in “very good status” and “good status,” as well as the provisional identification of heavily modified water bodies.
In cases requiring a higher level of detail, work is carried out with more extensive sampling sub-sections, enabling precise channel characterization and facilitating the assessment of the hydromorphological impact or improvement that planned actions could generate.
How do we approach hydromorphological characterization work?
PHASE I. Preliminary Office Work
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PHASE II. Fieldwork
1. Visit to the study area
Final determination of hydromorphological sections and the sampling sub-sections that follow.
2. Fish Passage Continuity
3. Variation in channel depth and width
Lengths of sections altered by actions in the channel and stabilization and flood protection works.
4. Bed structure and substrate
Collection of data on substrate type (alluvial, colluvial, rocky, mixed), longitudinal structures, and sediment mobility.
5. Riparian Zone Structure
Structure and composition of vegetation fringes, differentiation of topographic and functional riparian zones, and connectivity between riparian vegetation layers.
6. Specific Composition of Riparian Vegetation
- Vegetation composition.
- Habitat quality.
- Functional riparian surface limited by artificial structures.
- Functional riparian surface altered by human activities.
Phase III: Final Office Work
Verification and calculations according to each characterization element:
- Fish Passage Continuity: calculation of the water body compartmentalization indices (IC) and longitudinal continuity of water bodies (ICL).
- Variation in channel depth and width
- Bed structure and substrate
- Riparian zone structure and specific composition of riparian vegetation
- Global index characterization
Why choose us?
Maximum reach
We have a network of laboratories for hydromorphological characterization studies distributed throughout the national territory, making us a leading provider in environmental analysis. Additionally, we have maximum reach in terms of accredited parameters and environmental matrices, allowing us to cover all types of sectors and fields.
Guaranteed deadlines
Direct interaction with our clients is our “hallmark.” We work daily to offer them the highest quality in our service, and therefore, one of our main goals is the strict fulfillment of delivery deadlines. Additionally, we provide individualized responses to emergencies, unforeseen events, or specific requirements to ensure our clients always receive the most efficient response possible.
Maximum service quality
Our accreditations endorse our commitment to providing the highest quality service in Legionella analysis. We operate under stringent quality standards to ensure our environmental laboratories can offer their services with the utmost rigor and reliability.
Our accreditations
We hold a large number of accreditations from both ENAC and other organizations, ensuring our clients the highest reliability and quality of results.
Would you like to know more about the hydromorphological characterization studies by Eurofins Environment Testing Spain?
Contact us