Using river habitat survey for environmental assessment and catchment planning in the UK

This paper describes how the attributes of a method for determining the phy sical quality of rivers are well-placed for use in environmental assessment and catchment planning in the U.K. The system, known as River Habitat Surv ey (RHS), uses a standard field survey method with quality controls, a comp uter database for rapid analysis and includes outputs which quantify habita t quality and channel modification. Further refinement of the system is nee ded because there are limitations associated with the detail of data collec ted, with assumptions made about species' habitat requirements and the impa ct of channel modification. By taking full account of catchment characteris tics, historical influences and geomorphological processes, the system can, together with other information, help in the conservation and rehabilitati on of rivers.