Author(s)

E. Christoffels

Abstract

A clear picture of the dynamic processes of river water quality, in particular for a river such as the Erft with low mean water flow combined with intensive water use, cannot be obtained through simple spot checks. For this reason, twenty-three years ago the Erftverband, a water management association in North Rhine- Westphalia (Germany), initiated an online monitoring network consisting of six water quality monitoring stations for continuous recording of contents of surface water in the Erft catchment. Measurement data combined with physicochemical and biological data from routine spot checks is processed at a central facility to yield information needed to assess and if necessary to improve water quality. Examples of such information are presented. The considerable advantages for river basin management planning are disclosed. Keywords: water quality, online monitoring, in-situ station, on-site station, water temperature, oxygen, nutrients, nitrate, phosphorus.

Keywords

Keywords: water quality, online monitoring, in-situ station, on-site station, water temperature, oxygen, nutrients, nitrate, phosphorus.