Implementing the requirements of the Water Framework Directive for rural water supply schemes in Scotland

摘要

In a project pioneering the implementation of the European Union Water Framework Directive in Scotland, a programme of local stream flow gauging in Lochaber demonstrated that low flow yields in the sources were greater than predicted by standard methodologies for ungauged catchments in the UK. This meant that the abstraction required for the water treatment works represented an acceptable proportion of the yield, and complied with Scottish Environment Protection Agency guidance for maintaining good ecological status in the catchments. Development of new sources with dams, pumping stations and pipelines was avoided, thus reducing costs and environmental impacts. A programme of stakeholder consultations was carried out throughout the Water Order application process and agreement on proposed abstractions was reached with over 20 stakeholders.