Drinking water shortage (level « orange »)

Chemical status of the water bodies 2009

Status of the water bodies 2009

The surface water of Luxembourg are subdivided in 106 water bodies. The identification of water bodies is based on geographical and hydrological determinants. 3 surface water bodies are integrated in the river basin of the "Chiers", part of the river basin district of the Meuse. 103 surface water bodies are integrated in the river basin of the "Moselle", part of the river basin district of the Rhine.

Drinking water shortage (level « red »)

According to the water framework directive (Directive 2000/60/CE), the biological parameter fish are monitored in surface water bodies in order to determine the ecological status. Fish react sensitively to the continuity and the hydrological flow of surface water. Fish are therefor sampled in the SWB which have deficits here. The methodology applied for sampling is the standard NF EN 14962:2006 "water quality − guidance on the scope and selection of fish sampling methods".

The chemical status of the water bodies is assessed as being good or failing to achieve good chemical surface. The definition of good chemical status is based on the annex X of the water framework directive which contains a list of priority substances and environmental quality standards (EQS) for each of these substances. This list is regularly updated in compliance with the directive 2008/105/EC and its revisions.

The surface water typology was determined on the basis of geographical , geological, morphological and hydrological characteristics. The Luxembourgish surface water typology comprises six types. For all six types the reference conditions, which would be achieved if there were no anthropogenic pressures impacting surface waters, are described in fact sheets. The reference conditions correspond to the high status of surface water bodies.

A groundwater body is a distinctive volume of groundwater inside one or more aquifers. The identification of a groundwater body is made by geological criteria. A groundwater body is a management unit in order to evaluate the environmental objectives (good status) according to article 6 of the national water law of the 19th December 2008.

The global status of a surface water body is determined by its ecological and chemical status.