New WUR tool helps water managers identify bottlenecks
Wageningen Environmental Research developed the new EBEO tool (Ecological Understanding of Surface Water), which helps water managers better identify why the ecological quality of surface water is lagging behind. The tool uses existing biological monitoring data to provide insight into bottlenecks within water systems, supporting more targeted water management.
From assessment to diagnosis
Water managers have access to large amounts of biological monitoring data. Within the current Water Framework Directive (WFD), this data is used to determine the ecological quality of water bodies. What is often missing, however, is insight into the underlying causes of a moderate or poor ecological status.
EBEO helps make these causes more visible. The tool analyses the species present within a water system and the environmental conditions they need to thrive. Based on this, EBEO can diagnose possible bottlenecks affecting the functioning of a water system.
The results not only provide greater insight into the current situation, but also support the selection and evaluation of restoration measures. More information is available through the EBEO platform.
Developed and tested with water managers
The tool was developed in collaboration with four so-called living laboratories: Rijkswaterstaat, Hoogheemraadschap Hollands Noorderkwartier, Drents Overijsselse Delta Water Authority, and Limburg Water Authority. These organisations provided data, practical expertise, and feedback from different types of water systems, including large water bodies, ditches, ponds, fens, and flowing waters.
Over the past period, a beta version was tested during three regional workshops involving around 75 participants. Responses were positive, particularly regarding usability and practical applicability. “The tool quickly makes bottlenecks visible and helps compare results with existing local knowledge,” said one participant.
The clear structure of the tool was also appreciated. Feedback from the workshops will be used to further develop EBEO.
Supporting future water management
EBEO is intended to complement the expertise of water quality managers. By combining local knowledge with the tool’s results, the causes of ecological problems can be identified and refined more effectively.
Users can apply EBEO to existing monitoring data. Results can be visualised in maps, radar plots, time series, and tables. In this way, the tool supports not only analysis and management, but also communication with policymakers and other stakeholders.
With EBEO, water managers can make better use of existing data to address ecological problems more effectively. The tool therefore supports the further development of water quality management towards achieving the WFD objectives beyond 2027.
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