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Project title

Integrating hydromorphology into typology to improve risk assessment of Irish lakes

Primary Funding Agency

Environmental Protection Agency

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

University of Dublin, Trinity College (TCD)

Lead Applicant

Katherine Webster

Project Abstract

Hydromorphology elements related to basin morphology and flow regime constrain a wide range of fundamental lake properties and processes that determine sensitivity to pressures and resilience to disturbance. However, integrating these elements into an effective lake typology has been elusive. We propose to use existing EPA datasets on lake water chemistry, biology and water level; river flow; and groundwater characterisation to develop a lake typology that integrates multi-scalar hydromorphology features. Our approach is innovative in that it includes consideration of the position of a lake within the hydrologic flow system, shown in previous studies to capture spatial and dynamic patterns in physical, chemical, and biological features. Typologies will be empirically evaluated as to their ability to account for among-lake spatial and temporal heterogeneity in trophic variables, ratios, biodiversity, and flow regime. A field component will be designed to test the empirical relationships on unsampled lakes or to collect supporting data on, for example, geochemical signatures related to groundwater inputs. The practical applicability of the hydromorphic typology model and associated elements for nutrient loading models, setting reference conditions, identifying under-monitored lake populations, and for enhancing risk assessments for lake responses to pressures such as abstraction and eutrophication will be demonstrated.

Grant Approved

�139,919.00

Research Hub

Natural Environment

Research Theme

Improve our Knowledge on the State of our Water Resources and Pressures

Start Date

09/01/2012

Initial Projected Completion Date

08/01/2014