Implementing the Water Framework Directive: a transition from established monitoring networks in England and Wales

► This paper reviews the monitoring requirements for the implementation of the WFD. ► Established monitoring programmes are compared to those required by the WFD in England and Wales. ► This paper demonstrates the challenges of moving towards an integrated approach. The Water Framework Directive (WFD) establishes a new regulatory framework for the management of water bodies throughout the European Union. The Directive introduces new principles, importantly shifting policy towards Integrated Water Resource Management, and a more holistic approach to water quality comprising both ecological and chemical status. Owing to the emphasis the Directive places on it, monitoring plays an integral part in its success. In this paper the implications of implementing the WFD on monitoring requirements are reviewed and compared to previous arrangements in England and Wales. This paper demonstrates the challenge associated with making the transition from established monitoring networks to those that support a more integrated approach to water management. The need for integration of monitoring using ecological elements, the use of risk in the design of monitoring programmes, the collection of monitoring data to inform decision making and the active engagement with stakeholders are highlighted as some of the challenges of such a transition.