Member State report / Art11 / 2014-2020 / D7 / Netherlands / NE Atlantic: Greater North Sea

Report type Member State report to Commission
MSFD Article Art. 11 Monitoring programmes (and Art. 17 updates)
Report due 2014-10-15; 2020-10-15
GES Descriptor D7 Hydrographical changes
Member State Netherlands
Region/subregion NE Atlantic: Greater North Sea
Reported by Rijkswaterstaat
Report date 2014-10-16; 2020-11-17
Report access
2014 data
2020 data
Monitoring programme Monitoring programme name
Monitoring programme Reference existing programme
Monitoring programme Marine Unit ID
Q4e - Programme ID
Q4f - Programme description
Q5e - Natural variability
Q5d - Adequacy for assessment of GES Q5d - Adequate data
Q5d - Adequacy for assessment of GES Q5d - Established methods
Q5d - Adequacy for assessment of GES Q5d - Adequate understanding of GES
Q5d - Adequacy for assessment of GES Q5d - Adequate capacity
Q5f - Description of programme for GES assessment
Q5g - Gap-filling date for GES assessment
Q5h - Plans to implement monitoring for GES assessment
Q6a -Relevant targets Q6a - Environmental target
Q6a -Relevant targets Q6a - Associated indicator
Q6b - Adequacy for assessment of targets Q6b_SuitableData
Q6b - Adequacy for assessment of targets Q6b_EstablishedMethods
Q6b - Adequacy for assessment of targets Q6d_AdequateCapacity
Q6c - Target updating
Q6d - Description of programme for targets assessment
Q6e - Gap-filling date for targets assessment
Q6f - Plans to implement monitoring for targets assessment
Q7a - Relevant activities
Q7b - Description of monitoring of activities
Q7c - Relevant measures
Q7e - Adequacy for assessment of measures Q7d - Adequate data
Q7e - Adequacy for assessment of measures Q7d - Established methods
Q7e - Adequacy for assessment of measures Q7d - Adequate understanding of GES
Q7e - Adequacy for assessment of measures Q7d - Adequate capacity
Q7e - Adequacy for assessment of measures Q7d - Addresses activities and pressures
Q7e - Adequacy for assessment of measures Q7d - Addresses effectiveness of measures
Q7d - Description of monitoring for measures
Q7f - Gap-filling date for activities and measures
Q8a - Links to existing Monitoring Programmes
Reference sub-programme Sub-programme ID
Reference sub-programme Sub-programme name
Q4g - Sub-programmes Sub-programme ID
Q4g - Sub-programmes Sub-programme name
Q4k - Monitoring purpose
Q4l - Links of monitoring programmes of other Directives and Conventions
Q5c - Features Q5c - Habitats
Q5c - Features Q5c - Species list
Q5c - Features Q5c - Physical/Chemical features
Q5c - Features Q5c - Pressures
Q9a - Elements
Q5a - GES criteria Relevant GES criteria
Q5b - GES indicators Relevant GES indicators
Q9b - Parameters monitored (state/impact) Species distribution
Q9b - Parameters monitored (state/impact) Species population size
Q9b - Parameters monitored (state/impact) Species population characteristics
Q9b - Parameters monitored (state/impact) Species impacts
Q9b - Parameters monitored (state/impact) Habitat distribution
Q9b - Parameters monitored (state/impact) Habitat extent
Q9b - Parameters monitored (state/impact) Habitat condition (physical-chemical)
Q9b - Parameters monitored (state/impact) Habitat condition (biological)
Q9b - Parameters monitored (state/impact) Habitat impacts
Q9b - Parameters monitored (pressures) Pressure input
Q9b - Parameters monitored (pressures) Pressure output
Q9b - Parameters monitored (activity) Activity
Q9b Parameters monitored (other) Other
Q41 Spatial scope
Q4j - Description of spatial scope
Marine Unit IDs
Q4h - Temporal scope Start date- End date
Q9h - Temporal resolution of sampling
Q9c - Monitoring method
Q9d - Description of alteration to method
Q9e - Quality assurance
Q9f - Quality control
Q9g - Spatial resolution of sampling Q9g - Proportion of area covered %
Q9g - Spatial resolution of sampling Q9g - No. of samples
Q9i - Description of sample representivity
Q10a - Scale for aggregation of data
Q10b - Other scale for aggregation of data
Q10c - Access to monitoring data Q10c - Data type
Q10c - Access to monitoring data Q10c - Data access mechanism
Q10c - Access to monitoring data Q10c - Data access rights
Q10c - Access to monitoring data Q10c - INSPIRE standard
Q10c - Access to monitoring data Q10c Date data are available
Q10c - Access to monitoring data Q10c - Data update frequency
Q10d - Description of data access
Descriptor
D7
D7
D7
D7
D7
D7
D7
Monitoring strategy description
The principal purpose of the MSFD monitoring programme is to review the progress that has been made towards achieving good environmental status prescribed for each criterion in the Marine Strategy Part I (2018). This review is based on established indicators. The monitoring can also be used to evaluate the environmental targets defined for each descriptor. The environmental targets are operational in nature and are linked to specific actions and/or measures in the Marine Strategy Part 3. The effects of individual measures cannot generally be linked directly to environmental status or the criteria. Monitoring data can, however, indirectly give an indication of the effectiveness of measures. The monitoring (methods, spatial and temporal coverage) aims to achieve sufficient statistical confidence in the assessment. The risk of not achieving GES or deterioration from GES is addressed in the Marine Strategy, Parts 1 and 3. The European Commission requests that the electronic reports explain how the DPSIR cycle is monitored and to which part of the cycle the monitoring surveys are linked. The MSFD monitoring programme helps to generate better insight into the relationships between the use of the sea and the marine ecosystem. This can be accomplished by monitoring pressures and the underlying activities (D1C1: incidental bycatch, D2: non-indigenous species, D3C1: fish mortality, D5: eutrophication, D6C1/D6C4: physical loss of seabed/habitats and D6C2: fisheries intensity and sand extraction, D8 and D9: pollutants, D10: litter, D11: underwater noise), and by monitoring species and habitats (D1: biodiversity (with the exception of D1C1), D3C2: spawning stock biomass, D4: food web, D6C3/D6C5: habitats ) and hydrographical characteristics (D7). The numerous relationships between the various elements of the marine ecosystem are complex, and many are still not known. Consequently, it is often only possible to give an indication of the impact of specific activities on the marine ecosystem. Experts generally derive DPSIR relationships from the monitoring of pressures/activities and of species and habitats (from the MSFD monitoring programme), in combination with data derived from permits and research programmes. However, some surveys have been established to measure pressures and their effects and/or to learn more about the effectiveness of measures. In designing the monitoring survey for benthic animals (habitats), the Netherlands explicitly took account of the need to
The principal purpose of the MSFD monitoring programme is to review the progress that has been made towards achieving good environmental status prescribed for each criterion in the Marine Strategy Part I (2018). This review is based on established indicators. The monitoring can also be used to evaluate the environmental targets defined for each descriptor. The environmental targets are operational in nature and are linked to specific actions and/or measures in the Marine Strategy Part 3. The effects of individual measures cannot generally be linked directly to environmental status or the criteria. Monitoring data can, however, indirectly give an indication of the effectiveness of measures. The monitoring (methods, spatial and temporal coverage) aims to achieve sufficient statistical confidence in the assessment. The risk of not achieving GES or deterioration from GES is addressed in the Marine Strategy, Parts 1 and 3. The European Commission requests that the electronic reports explain how the DPSIR cycle is monitored and to which part of the cycle the monitoring surveys are linked. The MSFD monitoring programme helps to generate better insight into the relationships between the use of the sea and the marine ecosystem. This can be accomplished by monitoring pressures and the underlying activities (D1C1: incidental bycatch, D2: non-indigenous species, D3C1: fish mortality, D5: eutrophication, D6C1/D6C4: physical loss of seabed/habitats and D6C2: fisheries intensity and sand extraction, D8 and D9: pollutants, D10: litter, D11: underwater noise), and by monitoring species and habitats (D1: biodiversity (with the exception of D1C1), D3C2: spawning stock biomass, D4: food web, D6C3/D6C5: habitats ) and hydrographical characteristics (D7). The numerous relationships between the various elements of the marine ecosystem are complex, and many are still not known. Consequently, it is often only possible to give an indication of the impact of specific activities on the marine ecosystem. Experts generally derive DPSIR relationships from the monitoring of pressures/activities and of species and habitats (from the MSFD monitoring programme), in combination with data derived from permits and research programmes. However, some surveys have been established to measure pressures and their effects and/or to learn more about the effectiveness of measures. In designing the monitoring survey for benthic animals (habitats), the Netherlands explicitly took account of the need to
The principal purpose of the MSFD monitoring programme is to review the progress that has been made towards achieving good environmental status prescribed for each criterion in the Marine Strategy Part I (2018). This review is based on established indicators. The monitoring can also be used to evaluate the environmental targets defined for each descriptor. The environmental targets are operational in nature and are linked to specific actions and/or measures in the Marine Strategy Part 3. The effects of individual measures cannot generally be linked directly to environmental status or the criteria. Monitoring data can, however, indirectly give an indication of the effectiveness of measures. The monitoring (methods, spatial and temporal coverage) aims to achieve sufficient statistical confidence in the assessment. The risk of not achieving GES or deterioration from GES is addressed in the Marine Strategy, Parts 1 and 3. The European Commission requests that the electronic reports explain how the DPSIR cycle is monitored and to which part of the cycle the monitoring surveys are linked. The MSFD monitoring programme helps to generate better insight into the relationships between the use of the sea and the marine ecosystem. This can be accomplished by monitoring pressures and the underlying activities (D1C1: incidental bycatch, D2: non-indigenous species, D3C1: fish mortality, D5: eutrophication, D6C1/D6C4: physical loss of seabed/habitats and D6C2: fisheries intensity and sand extraction, D8 and D9: pollutants, D10: litter, D11: underwater noise), and by monitoring species and habitats (D1: biodiversity (with the exception of D1C1), D3C2: spawning stock biomass, D4: food web, D6C3/D6C5: habitats ) and hydrographical characteristics (D7). The numerous relationships between the various elements of the marine ecosystem are complex, and many are still not known. Consequently, it is often only possible to give an indication of the impact of specific activities on the marine ecosystem. Experts generally derive DPSIR relationships from the monitoring of pressures/activities and of species and habitats (from the MSFD monitoring programme), in combination with data derived from permits and research programmes. However, some surveys have been established to measure pressures and their effects and/or to learn more about the effectiveness of measures. In designing the monitoring survey for benthic animals (habitats), the Netherlands explicitly took account of the need to
The principal purpose of the MSFD monitoring programme is to review the progress that has been made towards achieving good environmental status prescribed for each criterion in the Marine Strategy Part I (2018). This review is based on established indicators. The monitoring can also be used to evaluate the environmental targets defined for each descriptor. The environmental targets are operational in nature and are linked to specific actions and/or measures in the Marine Strategy Part 3. The effects of individual measures cannot generally be linked directly to environmental status or the criteria. Monitoring data can, however, indirectly give an indication of the effectiveness of measures. The monitoring (methods, spatial and temporal coverage) aims to achieve sufficient statistical confidence in the assessment. The risk of not achieving GES or deterioration from GES is addressed in the Marine Strategy, Parts 1 and 3. The European Commission requests that the electronic reports explain how the DPSIR cycle is monitored and to which part of the cycle the monitoring surveys are linked. The MSFD monitoring programme helps to generate better insight into the relationships between the use of the sea and the marine ecosystem. This can be accomplished by monitoring pressures and the underlying activities (D1C1: incidental bycatch, D2: non-indigenous species, D3C1: fish mortality, D5: eutrophication, D6C1/D6C4: physical loss of seabed/habitats and D6C2: fisheries intensity and sand extraction, D8 and D9: pollutants, D10: litter, D11: underwater noise), and by monitoring species and habitats (D1: biodiversity (with the exception of D1C1), D3C2: spawning stock biomass, D4: food web, D6C3/D6C5: habitats ) and hydrographical characteristics (D7). The numerous relationships between the various elements of the marine ecosystem are complex, and many are still not known. Consequently, it is often only possible to give an indication of the impact of specific activities on the marine ecosystem. Experts generally derive DPSIR relationships from the monitoring of pressures/activities and of species and habitats (from the MSFD monitoring programme), in combination with data derived from permits and research programmes. However, some surveys have been established to measure pressures and their effects and/or to learn more about the effectiveness of measures. In designing the monitoring survey for benthic animals (habitats), the Netherlands explicitly took account of the need to
The principal purpose of the MSFD monitoring programme is to review the progress that has been made towards achieving good environmental status prescribed for each criterion in the Marine Strategy Part I (2018). This review is based on established indicators. The monitoring can also be used to evaluate the environmental targets defined for each descriptor. The environmental targets are operational in nature and are linked to specific actions and/or measures in the Marine Strategy Part 3. The effects of individual measures cannot generally be linked directly to environmental status or the criteria. Monitoring data can, however, indirectly give an indication of the effectiveness of measures. The monitoring (methods, spatial and temporal coverage) aims to achieve sufficient statistical confidence in the assessment. The risk of not achieving GES or deterioration from GES is addressed in the Marine Strategy, Parts 1 and 3. The European Commission requests that the electronic reports explain how the DPSIR cycle is monitored and to which part of the cycle the monitoring surveys are linked. The MSFD monitoring programme helps to generate better insight into the relationships between the use of the sea and the marine ecosystem. This can be accomplished by monitoring pressures and the underlying activities (D1C1: incidental bycatch, D2: non-indigenous species, D3C1: fish mortality, D5: eutrophication, D6C1/D6C4: physical loss of seabed/habitats and D6C2: fisheries intensity and sand extraction, D8 and D9: pollutants, D10: litter, D11: underwater noise), and by monitoring species and habitats (D1: biodiversity (with the exception of D1C1), D3C2: spawning stock biomass, D4: food web, D6C3/D6C5: habitats ) and hydrographical characteristics (D7). The numerous relationships between the various elements of the marine ecosystem are complex, and many are still not known. Consequently, it is often only possible to give an indication of the impact of specific activities on the marine ecosystem. Experts generally derive DPSIR relationships from the monitoring of pressures/activities and of species and habitats (from the MSFD monitoring programme), in combination with data derived from permits and research programmes. However, some surveys have been established to measure pressures and their effects and/or to learn more about the effectiveness of measures. In designing the monitoring survey for benthic animals (habitats), the Netherlands explicitly took account of the need to
The principal purpose of the MSFD monitoring programme is to review the progress that has been made towards achieving good environmental status prescribed for each criterion in the Marine Strategy Part I (2018). This review is based on established indicators. The monitoring can also be used to evaluate the environmental targets defined for each descriptor. The environmental targets are operational in nature and are linked to specific actions and/or measures in the Marine Strategy Part 3. The effects of individual measures cannot generally be linked directly to environmental status or the criteria. Monitoring data can, however, indirectly give an indication of the effectiveness of measures. The monitoring (methods, spatial and temporal coverage) aims to achieve sufficient statistical confidence in the assessment. The risk of not achieving GES or deterioration from GES is addressed in the Marine Strategy, Parts 1 and 3. The European Commission requests that the electronic reports explain how the DPSIR cycle is monitored and to which part of the cycle the monitoring surveys are linked. The MSFD monitoring programme helps to generate better insight into the relationships between the use of the sea and the marine ecosystem. This can be accomplished by monitoring pressures and the underlying activities (D1C1: incidental bycatch, D2: non-indigenous species, D3C1: fish mortality, D5: eutrophication, D6C1/D6C4: physical loss of seabed/habitats and D6C2: fisheries intensity and sand extraction, D8 and D9: pollutants, D10: litter, D11: underwater noise), and by monitoring species and habitats (D1: biodiversity (with the exception of D1C1), D3C2: spawning stock biomass, D4: food web, D6C3/D6C5: habitats ) and hydrographical characteristics (D7). The numerous relationships between the various elements of the marine ecosystem are complex, and many are still not known. Consequently, it is often only possible to give an indication of the impact of specific activities on the marine ecosystem. Experts generally derive DPSIR relationships from the monitoring of pressures/activities and of species and habitats (from the MSFD monitoring programme), in combination with data derived from permits and research programmes. However, some surveys have been established to measure pressures and their effects and/or to learn more about the effectiveness of measures. In designing the monitoring survey for benthic animals (habitats), the Netherlands explicitly took account of the need to
The principal purpose of the MSFD monitoring programme is to review the progress that has been made towards achieving good environmental status prescribed for each criterion in the Marine Strategy Part I (2018). This review is based on established indicators. The monitoring can also be used to evaluate the environmental targets defined for each descriptor. The environmental targets are operational in nature and are linked to specific actions and/or measures in the Marine Strategy Part 3. The effects of individual measures cannot generally be linked directly to environmental status or the criteria. Monitoring data can, however, indirectly give an indication of the effectiveness of measures. The monitoring (methods, spatial and temporal coverage) aims to achieve sufficient statistical confidence in the assessment. The risk of not achieving GES or deterioration from GES is addressed in the Marine Strategy, Parts 1 and 3. The European Commission requests that the electronic reports explain how the DPSIR cycle is monitored and to which part of the cycle the monitoring surveys are linked. The MSFD monitoring programme helps to generate better insight into the relationships between the use of the sea and the marine ecosystem. This can be accomplished by monitoring pressures and the underlying activities (D1C1: incidental bycatch, D2: non-indigenous species, D3C1: fish mortality, D5: eutrophication, D6C1/D6C4: physical loss of seabed/habitats and D6C2: fisheries intensity and sand extraction, D8 and D9: pollutants, D10: litter, D11: underwater noise), and by monitoring species and habitats (D1: biodiversity (with the exception of D1C1), D3C2: spawning stock biomass, D4: food web, D6C3/D6C5: habitats ) and hydrographical characteristics (D7). The numerous relationships between the various elements of the marine ecosystem are complex, and many are still not known. Consequently, it is often only possible to give an indication of the impact of specific activities on the marine ecosystem. Experts generally derive DPSIR relationships from the monitoring of pressures/activities and of species and habitats (from the MSFD monitoring programme), in combination with data derived from permits and research programmes. However, some surveys have been established to measure pressures and their effects and/or to learn more about the effectiveness of measures. In designing the monitoring survey for benthic animals (habitats), the Netherlands explicitly took account of the need to
Coverage of GES criteria
Monitoring is not being put in place for this descriptor due to a low risk
Monitoring is not being put in place for this descriptor due to a low risk
Monitoring is not being put in place for this descriptor due to a low risk
Monitoring is not being put in place for this descriptor due to a low risk
Monitoring is not being put in place for this descriptor due to a low risk
Monitoring is not being put in place for this descriptor due to a low risk
Monitoring is not being put in place for this descriptor due to a low risk
Gaps and plans
There are no monitoring gaps for D7; the current approach (via licensing) provides sufficient information for assessing GES and environmental targets.
There are no monitoring gaps for D7; the current approach (via licensing) provides sufficient information for assessing GES and environmental targets.
There are no monitoring gaps for D7; the current approach (via licensing) provides sufficient information for assessing GES and environmental targets.
There are no monitoring gaps for D7; the current approach (via licensing) provides sufficient information for assessing GES and environmental targets.
There are no monitoring gaps for D7; the current approach (via licensing) provides sufficient information for assessing GES and environmental targets.
There are no monitoring gaps for D7; the current approach (via licensing) provides sufficient information for assessing GES and environmental targets.
There are no monitoring gaps for D7; the current approach (via licensing) provides sufficient information for assessing GES and environmental targets.
Related targets
  • ANSNL-D7T1
  • ANSNL-D7T1
  • ANSNL-D7T1
  • ANSNL-D7T1
  • ANSNL-D7T1
  • ANSNL-D7T1
  • ANSNL-D7T1
Coverage of targets
Monitoring is not being put in place for this descriptor due to a low risk
Monitoring is not being put in place for this descriptor due to a low risk
Monitoring is not being put in place for this descriptor due to a low risk
Monitoring is not being put in place for this descriptor due to a low risk
Monitoring is not being put in place for this descriptor due to a low risk
Monitoring is not being put in place for this descriptor due to a low risk
Monitoring is not being put in place for this descriptor due to a low risk
Related measures
  • ANSNL-M011 - 'Beoordeling van hydrografische ingrepen en compensatie van effecten'
  • ANSNL-M011 - 'Beoordeling van hydrografische ingrepen en compensatie van effecten'
  • ANSNL-M011 - 'Beoordeling van hydrografische ingrepen en compensatie van effecten'
  • ANSNL-M011 - 'Beoordeling van hydrografische ingrepen en compensatie van effecten'
  • ANSNL-M011 - 'Beoordeling van hydrografische ingrepen en compensatie van effecten'
  • ANSNL-M011 - 'Beoordeling van hydrografische ingrepen en compensatie van effecten'
  • ANSNL-M011 - 'Beoordeling van hydrografische ingrepen en compensatie van effecten'
Coverage of measures
Monitoring is not being put in place for this descriptor due to a low risk
Monitoring is not being put in place for this descriptor due to a low risk
Monitoring is not being put in place for this descriptor due to a low risk
Monitoring is not being put in place for this descriptor due to a low risk
Monitoring is not being put in place for this descriptor due to a low risk
Monitoring is not being put in place for this descriptor due to a low risk
Monitoring is not being put in place for this descriptor due to a low risk
Related monitoring programmes
  • ANSNL-D7-Hydrografie seabed
  • ANSNL-D7-Hydrografie water column
  • ANSNL-D7-Hydrografie seabed
  • ANSNL-D7-Hydrografie water column
  • ANSNL-D7-Hydrografie seabed
  • ANSNL-D7-Hydrografie water column
  • ANSNL-D7-Hydrografie seabed
  • ANSNL-D7-Hydrografie water column
  • ANSNL-D7-Hydrografie seabed
  • ANSNL-D7-Hydrografie water column
  • ANSNL-D7-Hydrografie seabed
  • ANSNL-D7-Hydrografie water column
  • ANSNL-D7-Hydrografie seabed
  • ANSNL-D7-Hydrografie water column
Programme code
ANSNL-D7-Hydrografie seabed
ANSNL-D7-Hydrografie water column
ANSNL-D7-Hydrografie water column
ANSNL-D7-Hydrografie water column
ANSNL-D7-Hydrografie water column
ANSNL-D7-Hydrografie water column
ANSNL-D7-Hydrografie water column
Programme name
Seabed habitats - physical and chemical characteristics
Water column – hydrological characteristics
Water column – hydrological characteristics
Water column – hydrological characteristics
Water column – hydrological characteristics
Water column – hydrological characteristics
Water column – hydrological characteristics
Update type
New programme
New programme
New programme
New programme
New programme
New programme
New programme
Old programme codes
Programme description
GES for D7 is preserved if the marine ecosystem does not suffer any negative effects from permanent alterations in hydrographical properties as a result of human activities. Developments such as the construction of wind farms, harbours and hard surfaces, as well as sand extraction and suppletion, could have an impact on hydrographical properties and are therefore assessed for their potential effects. This calls for monitoring, registration and assessment (including compensatory measures if necessary) in accordance with the existing statutory frameworks. This usually involves environmental impact reports (EIAs). The monitoring of the effects of activities that could influence the hydrographical properties is carried out in the context of licensing procedures or during the evaluation of measures taken. Because the measurements are performed for a specific project, strictly speaking, they are not part of the MSFD monitoring programme. For each project, the extent of the potentially affected area of the seabed is determined during the environmental impact procedure, which includes an EIA. Model calculations of aspects such as currents, salinity, sludge content, bottom shear stress and sediment transport are performed. On that basis, the area that will be affected by changes and the extent to which those changes will occur are determined. The extent of altered habitat types and changing functions of habitats is then determined. Consequently, the area in which the benthic fauna are being damaged can be determined. If necessary, the benthic fauna are sampled and monitored. Rijkswaterstaat’s MWTL programme and the Hydrographic Service of the Royal Netherlands Navy regularly monitor the state of the seabed, salinity, currents and wave heights in the North Sea. Although these measurements are not explicitly part of the MSFD monitoring programme, the data can support the assessment for D7. Further information about these surveys is available on the website https://waterinfo-extra.rws.nl/monitoring. The implementation of D7 has not changed compared with the previous MSFD monitoring programme. The current approach (via licensing) provides sufficient information for assessing environmental targets and GES. The Dutch and international assignments for the development of offshore renewable energy demand special attention. They will lead to a substantial increase in the number of wind turbines. The physical damage is expected to be local and relatively minor. Nevertheles
GES for D7 is preserved if the marine ecosystem does not suffer any negative effects from permanent alterations in hydrographical properties as a result of human activities. Developments such as the construction of wind farms, harbours and hard surfaces, as well as sand extraction and suppletion, could have an impact on hydrographical properties and are therefore assessed for their potential effects. This calls for monitoring, registration and assessment (including compensatory measures if necessary) in accordance with the existing statutory frameworks. This usually involves environmental impact reports (EIAs). The monitoring of the effects of activities that could influence the hydrographical properties is carried out in the context of licensing procedures or during the evaluation of measures taken. Because the measurements are performed for a specific project, strictly speaking, they are not part of the MSFD monitoring programme. For each project, the extent of the potentially affected area of the seabed is determined during the environmental impact procedure, which includes an EIA. Model calculations of aspects such as currents, salinity, sludge content, bottom shear stress and sediment transport are performed. On that basis, the area that will be affected by changes and the extent to which those changes will occur are determined. The extent of altered habitat types and changing functions of habitats is then determined. Consequently, the area in which the benthic fauna are being damaged can be determined. If necessary, the benthic fauna are sampled and monitored. Rijkswaterstaat’s MWTL programme and the Hydrographic Service of the Royal Netherlands Navy regularly monitor the state of the seabed, salinity, currents and wave heights in the North Sea. Although these measurements are not explicitly part of the MSFD monitoring programme, the data can support the assessment for D7. Further information about these surveys is available on the website https://waterinfo-extra.rws.nl/monitoring. The implementation of D7 has not changed compared with the previous MSFD monitoring programme. The current approach (via licensing) provides sufficient information for assessing environmental targets and GES. The Dutch and international assignments for the development of offshore renewable energy demand special attention. They will lead to a substantial increase in the number of wind turbines. The physical damage is expected to be local and relatively minor. Nevertheles
GES for D7 is preserved if the marine ecosystem does not suffer any negative effects from permanent alterations in hydrographical properties as a result of human activities. Developments such as the construction of wind farms, harbours and hard surfaces, as well as sand extraction and suppletion, could have an impact on hydrographical properties and are therefore assessed for their potential effects. This calls for monitoring, registration and assessment (including compensatory measures if necessary) in accordance with the existing statutory frameworks. This usually involves environmental impact reports (EIAs). The monitoring of the effects of activities that could influence the hydrographical properties is carried out in the context of licensing procedures or during the evaluation of measures taken. Because the measurements are performed for a specific project, strictly speaking, they are not part of the MSFD monitoring programme. For each project, the extent of the potentially affected area of the seabed is determined during the environmental impact procedure, which includes an EIA. Model calculations of aspects such as currents, salinity, sludge content, bottom shear stress and sediment transport are performed. On that basis, the area that will be affected by changes and the extent to which those changes will occur are determined. The extent of altered habitat types and changing functions of habitats is then determined. Consequently, the area in which the benthic fauna are being damaged can be determined. If necessary, the benthic fauna are sampled and monitored. Rijkswaterstaat’s MWTL programme and the Hydrographic Service of the Royal Netherlands Navy regularly monitor the state of the seabed, salinity, currents and wave heights in the North Sea. Although these measurements are not explicitly part of the MSFD monitoring programme, the data can support the assessment for D7. Further information about these surveys is available on the website https://waterinfo-extra.rws.nl/monitoring. The implementation of D7 has not changed compared with the previous MSFD monitoring programme. The current approach (via licensing) provides sufficient information for assessing environmental targets and GES. The Dutch and international assignments for the development of offshore renewable energy demand special attention. They will lead to a substantial increase in the number of wind turbines. The physical damage is expected to be local and relatively minor. Nevertheles
GES for D7 is preserved if the marine ecosystem does not suffer any negative effects from permanent alterations in hydrographical properties as a result of human activities. Developments such as the construction of wind farms, harbours and hard surfaces, as well as sand extraction and suppletion, could have an impact on hydrographical properties and are therefore assessed for their potential effects. This calls for monitoring, registration and assessment (including compensatory measures if necessary) in accordance with the existing statutory frameworks. This usually involves environmental impact reports (EIAs). The monitoring of the effects of activities that could influence the hydrographical properties is carried out in the context of licensing procedures or during the evaluation of measures taken. Because the measurements are performed for a specific project, strictly speaking, they are not part of the MSFD monitoring programme. For each project, the extent of the potentially affected area of the seabed is determined during the environmental impact procedure, which includes an EIA. Model calculations of aspects such as currents, salinity, sludge content, bottom shear stress and sediment transport are performed. On that basis, the area that will be affected by changes and the extent to which those changes will occur are determined. The extent of altered habitat types and changing functions of habitats is then determined. Consequently, the area in which the benthic fauna are being damaged can be determined. If necessary, the benthic fauna are sampled and monitored. Rijkswaterstaat’s MWTL programme and the Hydrographic Service of the Royal Netherlands Navy regularly monitor the state of the seabed, salinity, currents and wave heights in the North Sea. Although these measurements are not explicitly part of the MSFD monitoring programme, the data can support the assessment for D7. Further information about these surveys is available on the website https://waterinfo-extra.rws.nl/monitoring. The implementation of D7 has not changed compared with the previous MSFD monitoring programme. The current approach (via licensing) provides sufficient information for assessing environmental targets and GES. The Dutch and international assignments for the development of offshore renewable energy demand special attention. They will lead to a substantial increase in the number of wind turbines. The physical damage is expected to be local and relatively minor. Nevertheles
GES for D7 is preserved if the marine ecosystem does not suffer any negative effects from permanent alterations in hydrographical properties as a result of human activities. Developments such as the construction of wind farms, harbours and hard surfaces, as well as sand extraction and suppletion, could have an impact on hydrographical properties and are therefore assessed for their potential effects. This calls for monitoring, registration and assessment (including compensatory measures if necessary) in accordance with the existing statutory frameworks. This usually involves environmental impact reports (EIAs). The monitoring of the effects of activities that could influence the hydrographical properties is carried out in the context of licensing procedures or during the evaluation of measures taken. Because the measurements are performed for a specific project, strictly speaking, they are not part of the MSFD monitoring programme. For each project, the extent of the potentially affected area of the seabed is determined during the environmental impact procedure, which includes an EIA. Model calculations of aspects such as currents, salinity, sludge content, bottom shear stress and sediment transport are performed. On that basis, the area that will be affected by changes and the extent to which those changes will occur are determined. The extent of altered habitat types and changing functions of habitats is then determined. Consequently, the area in which the benthic fauna are being damaged can be determined. If necessary, the benthic fauna are sampled and monitored. Rijkswaterstaat’s MWTL programme and the Hydrographic Service of the Royal Netherlands Navy regularly monitor the state of the seabed, salinity, currents and wave heights in the North Sea. Although these measurements are not explicitly part of the MSFD monitoring programme, the data can support the assessment for D7. Further information about these surveys is available on the website https://waterinfo-extra.rws.nl/monitoring. The implementation of D7 has not changed compared with the previous MSFD monitoring programme. The current approach (via licensing) provides sufficient information for assessing environmental targets and GES. The Dutch and international assignments for the development of offshore renewable energy demand special attention. They will lead to a substantial increase in the number of wind turbines. The physical damage is expected to be local and relatively minor. Nevertheles
GES for D7 is preserved if the marine ecosystem does not suffer any negative effects from permanent alterations in hydrographical properties as a result of human activities. Developments such as the construction of wind farms, harbours and hard surfaces, as well as sand extraction and suppletion, could have an impact on hydrographical properties and are therefore assessed for their potential effects. This calls for monitoring, registration and assessment (including compensatory measures if necessary) in accordance with the existing statutory frameworks. This usually involves environmental impact reports (EIAs). The monitoring of the effects of activities that could influence the hydrographical properties is carried out in the context of licensing procedures or during the evaluation of measures taken. Because the measurements are performed for a specific project, strictly speaking, they are not part of the MSFD monitoring programme. For each project, the extent of the potentially affected area of the seabed is determined during the environmental impact procedure, which includes an EIA. Model calculations of aspects such as currents, salinity, sludge content, bottom shear stress and sediment transport are performed. On that basis, the area that will be affected by changes and the extent to which those changes will occur are determined. The extent of altered habitat types and changing functions of habitats is then determined. Consequently, the area in which the benthic fauna are being damaged can be determined. If necessary, the benthic fauna are sampled and monitored. Rijkswaterstaat’s MWTL programme and the Hydrographic Service of the Royal Netherlands Navy regularly monitor the state of the seabed, salinity, currents and wave heights in the North Sea. Although these measurements are not explicitly part of the MSFD monitoring programme, the data can support the assessment for D7. Further information about these surveys is available on the website https://waterinfo-extra.rws.nl/monitoring. The implementation of D7 has not changed compared with the previous MSFD monitoring programme. The current approach (via licensing) provides sufficient information for assessing environmental targets and GES. The Dutch and international assignments for the development of offshore renewable energy demand special attention. They will lead to a substantial increase in the number of wind turbines. The physical damage is expected to be local and relatively minor. Nevertheles
GES for D7 is preserved if the marine ecosystem does not suffer any negative effects from permanent alterations in hydrographical properties as a result of human activities. Developments such as the construction of wind farms, harbours and hard surfaces, as well as sand extraction and suppletion, could have an impact on hydrographical properties and are therefore assessed for their potential effects. This calls for monitoring, registration and assessment (including compensatory measures if necessary) in accordance with the existing statutory frameworks. This usually involves environmental impact reports (EIAs). The monitoring of the effects of activities that could influence the hydrographical properties is carried out in the context of licensing procedures or during the evaluation of measures taken. Because the measurements are performed for a specific project, strictly speaking, they are not part of the MSFD monitoring programme. For each project, the extent of the potentially affected area of the seabed is determined during the environmental impact procedure, which includes an EIA. Model calculations of aspects such as currents, salinity, sludge content, bottom shear stress and sediment transport are performed. On that basis, the area that will be affected by changes and the extent to which those changes will occur are determined. The extent of altered habitat types and changing functions of habitats is then determined. Consequently, the area in which the benthic fauna are being damaged can be determined. If necessary, the benthic fauna are sampled and monitored. Rijkswaterstaat’s MWTL programme and the Hydrographic Service of the Royal Netherlands Navy regularly monitor the state of the seabed, salinity, currents and wave heights in the North Sea. Although these measurements are not explicitly part of the MSFD monitoring programme, the data can support the assessment for D7. Further information about these surveys is available on the website https://waterinfo-extra.rws.nl/monitoring. The implementation of D7 has not changed compared with the previous MSFD monitoring programme. The current approach (via licensing) provides sufficient information for assessing environmental targets and GES. The Dutch and international assignments for the development of offshore renewable energy demand special attention. They will lead to a substantial increase in the number of wind turbines. The physical damage is expected to be local and relatively minor. Nevertheles
Monitoring purpose
  • Environmental state and impacts
  • Environmental state and impacts
  • Environmental state and impacts
  • Environmental state and impacts
  • Environmental state and impacts
  • Environmental state and impacts
  • Environmental state and impacts
Other policies and conventions
  • Monitoring programme targeting at national legislation
  • Monitoring programme targeting at national legislation
  • Monitoring programme targeting at national legislation
  • Monitoring programme targeting at national legislation
  • Monitoring programme targeting at national legislation
  • Monitoring programme targeting at national legislation
  • Monitoring programme targeting at national legislation
Regional cooperation - coordinating body
  • OSPAR
  • OSPAR
  • OSPAR
  • OSPAR
  • OSPAR
  • OSPAR
  • OSPAR
Regional cooperation - countries involved
Regional cooperation - implementation level
Agreed data collection methods
Agreed data collection methods
Agreed data collection methods
Agreed data collection methods
Agreed data collection methods
Agreed data collection methods
Agreed data collection methods
Monitoring details
Features
Benthic broad habitats
Hydrographical changes
Hydrographical changes
Hydrographical changes
Hydrographical changes
Hydrographical changes
Hydrographical changes
Benthic broad habitats
Hydrographical changes
Hydrographical changes
Hydrographical changes
Hydrographical changes
Hydrographical changes
Hydrographical changes
Benthic broad habitats
Hydrographical changes
Hydrographical changes
Hydrographical changes
Hydrographical changes
Hydrographical changes
Hydrographical changes
Benthic broad habitats
Hydrographical changes
Hydrographical changes
Hydrographical changes
Hydrographical changes
Hydrographical changes
Hydrographical changes
Elements
  • Circalittoral coarse sediment
  • Circalittoral mud
  • Circalittoral sand
  • Offshore circalittoral coarse sediment
  • Offshore circalittoral mud
  • Offshore circalittoral sand
  • Bathymetry
  • Current regime
  • Salinity
  • Sea level
  • Temperature
  • Wave regime
GES criteria
D7C2
D7C1
D7C1
D7C1
D7C1
D7C1
D7C1
Parameters
  • Extent
  • Bathymetric depth
  • Current velocity
  • Concentration in water
  • Other
  • Other
  • Wave action
Parameter Other
Waterhoogte t.o.v. Mean Sea Level in cm
Watertemperatuur in graden Celsius
Spatial scope
  • EEZ (or similar)
  • EEZ (or similar)
  • EEZ (or similar)
  • EEZ (or similar)
  • EEZ (or similar)
  • EEZ (or similar)
  • EEZ (or similar)
Marine reporting units
  • ANS-NL-MS-1
  • ANS-NL-MS-1
  • ANS-NL-MS-1
  • ANS-NL-MS-1
  • ANS-NL-MS-1
  • ANS-NL-MS-1
  • ANS-NL-MS-1
Temporal scope (start date - end date)
1960-9999
1960-9999
1960-9999
1960-9999
1960-9999
1960-9999
1960-9999
Monitoring frequency
Continually
Continually
Continually
Continually
Continually
Continually
Continually
Monitoring type
  • In-situ sampling coastal
  • In-situ sampling land/beach
  • In-situ sampling offshore
  • Remote flight imagery
  • Remote satellite imagery
  • Remote surveillance
  • In-situ sampling coastal
  • In-situ sampling land/beach
  • In-situ sampling offshore
  • Remote flight imagery
  • Remote satellite imagery
  • Remote surveillance
  • In-situ sampling coastal
  • In-situ sampling land/beach
  • In-situ sampling offshore
  • Remote flight imagery
  • Remote satellite imagery
  • Remote surveillance
  • In-situ sampling coastal
  • In-situ sampling land/beach
  • In-situ sampling offshore
  • Remote flight imagery
  • Remote satellite imagery
  • Remote surveillance
  • In-situ sampling coastal
  • In-situ sampling land/beach
  • In-situ sampling offshore
  • Remote flight imagery
  • Remote satellite imagery
  • Remote surveillance
  • In-situ sampling coastal
  • In-situ sampling land/beach
  • In-situ sampling offshore
  • Remote flight imagery
  • Remote satellite imagery
  • Remote surveillance
  • In-situ sampling coastal
  • In-situ sampling land/beach
  • In-situ sampling offshore
  • Remote flight imagery
  • Remote satellite imagery
  • Remote surveillance
Monitoring method
  • Other monitoring method
  • Other monitoring method
  • Other monitoring method
  • Other monitoring method
  • Other monitoring method
  • Other monitoring method
  • Other monitoring method
Monitoring method other
https://waterinfo-extra.rws.nl/monitoring/morfologie/ https://waterinfo.rws.nl/#!/nav/index/
https://waterinfo.rws.nl/#!/nav/index/ https://waterinfo-extra.rws.nl/monitoring/morfologie/
https://waterinfo.rws.nl/#!/nav/index/ https://waterinfo-extra.rws.nl/monitoring/morfologie/
https://waterinfo.rws.nl/#!/nav/index/ https://waterinfo-extra.rws.nl/monitoring/morfologie/
https://waterinfo.rws.nl/#!/nav/index/ https://waterinfo-extra.rws.nl/monitoring/morfologie/
https://waterinfo.rws.nl/#!/nav/index/ https://waterinfo-extra.rws.nl/monitoring/morfologie/
https://waterinfo.rws.nl/#!/nav/index/ https://waterinfo-extra.rws.nl/monitoring/morfologie/
Quality control
The measurements are carried out under the responsibility of Rijkswaterstaat by certified contractors.
The measurements are carried out under the responsibility of Rijkswaterstaat by certified contractors.
The measurements are carried out under the responsibility of Rijkswaterstaat by certified contractors.
The measurements are carried out under the responsibility of Rijkswaterstaat by certified contractors.
The measurements are carried out under the responsibility of Rijkswaterstaat by certified contractors.
The measurements are carried out under the responsibility of Rijkswaterstaat by certified contractors.
The measurements are carried out under the responsibility of Rijkswaterstaat by certified contractors.
Data management
Rijkswaterstaat
www.rws.nl
www.rws.nl
www.rws.nl
www.rws.nl
www.rws.nl
www.rws.nl
Data access
Related indicator/name
Contact
https://www.rijkswaterstaat.nl/water/waterdata-en-waterberichtgeving/waterdata/contact-over-waterdata/index.aspx
https://www.rijkswaterstaat.nl/water/waterdata-en-waterberichtgeving/waterdata/contact-over-waterdata/index.aspx
https://www.rijkswaterstaat.nl/water/waterdata-en-waterberichtgeving/waterdata/contact-over-waterdata/index.aspx
https://www.rijkswaterstaat.nl/water/waterdata-en-waterberichtgeving/waterdata/contact-over-waterdata/index.aspx
https://www.rijkswaterstaat.nl/water/waterdata-en-waterberichtgeving/waterdata/contact-over-waterdata/index.aspx
https://www.rijkswaterstaat.nl/water/waterdata-en-waterberichtgeving/waterdata/contact-over-waterdata/index.aspx
https://www.rijkswaterstaat.nl/water/waterdata-en-waterberichtgeving/waterdata/contact-over-waterdata/index.aspx
References