UKTAG Classification

Classification systems are needed to assess the state of the environment at any point in time. They show us where the environment is of good quality and where it may require improvement. Classification systems therefore help us in planning what measures might be required for improvements, and will help in the future to assess how our actions have benefited the environment.

Guidance on the classification of waterbodies and intercalibration of status classes between Member States has been developed at the European level for the purposes of the WFD, to ensure consistency across Europe. ies.jrc.cec.eu.int

The new classification schemes will be used to describe the state of the water environment under the Water Framework Directive and will provide an assessment of the effectiveness of the measures put in place to meet good status.

Useful links:

UKTAG Recommendations on Surface Water Status Classification (updated June 2009) This appendix to this document also gives links to the summary documents describing the classification tools.

A range of documents found below describe the classification tools in more detail.

Classification tool proformas

Classification tool summaries

Classification tool method statements

Technical reports

Guidance on the Classification of Ecological Potential for Heavily Modified Water Bodies and Artificial Water Bodies

Supporting technical reports can be found here

See below for more guidance on:

classification of water bodies

European Register of Sites