Programme

1. Conference scope and objectives The purpose of the conference is to enlarge awareness of the need and appreciation for the benefits of river rehabilitation. It will serve as a platform to present and discuss aspirations, challenges, analytical frameworks and novel approaches to improve our understanding of the causes and consequences of hydromorphological degradation and to enhance river rehabilitation. 40% of European rivers are affected by hydromorphological pressures caused predominantly by hydropower, navigation, agriculture, flood protection and urban development. This conclusion is based on the recent analysis of River Basin Management Plans for the EU Water Framework Directive (WFD). As a consequence, there is increasing emphasis on river restoration driven by demands of the WFD. To improve ecological functioning of rivers and streams EU member states have drafted programmes of measures focusing on restoring river hydrology and morphology. Implementation will require substantial investment in these measures, but there remains a great need to better understand and predict the costs and benefits of future river restoration. Ecological response to hydromorphological restoration, however, is complex and poorly understood. Against this background, REFORM has generated tools for cost-effective restoration of river ecosystems, and for improved monitoring of the biological effects of physical change by investigating natural, degradation and restoration processes in a wide range of river types across Europe. The conference aims to present the major outcome of REFORM mixed with excellent work from other studies from Europe and other continents. 2. Time schedule Monday June 29 17:00 19:00 Registration + Ice breaker party (drinks & snacks) Tuesday June 30 08:00 09:00 Registration