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Temporary tributaries flow

Definition

Temporary streams are of particular importance when it comes to water storage and time retention especially in flash flood prone areas. Some measures can be directly implemented in order to ensure their proper functioning.
- Based on Stella definitions, adapted by NWRM project experts and validated by the European Commission

Nitrate

Definition

Nitrate, NO-3, is the main nitrogen containing anion occurring in the soil. It is very soluble and moves freely in water through the soil profile. Nitrate in water is a pollutant above certain concentrations and can be a danger to human health. The main source of nitrate in water is agriculture although sewage discharges can also be an important factor.

Natural bank stabilisation

Definition

In the past, various activities were undertaken to straighten rivers, such as the stabilisation of river banks with concrete or other types of retention walls.ᅠ Such actions limited riversメ natural movements, leading to degradation of the river, increased water flow, increased erosion and decreased biodiversity.ᅠ Natural bank stabilisation reverses such activities, allowing rivers to move more freely.ᅠ Where bank stabilisation is nevertheless necessary, such as in residential areas, natural materials such as roots or gravel can be used.ᅠ Natural materials are preferable as they allow water to infiltrate into the bank.ᅠ They also provide better living conditions for aquatic fauna.
- Based on Stella definitions, adapted by NWRM project experts and validated by the European Commission

Sunk cost

Definition

Those expenditures that, once committed, cannot be (easily) recovered. These costs arise because some activities require specialized assets that cannot be readily diverted to other uses.

Swales

Definition

Shallow, broad and vegetated channels designed to store and/or convey runoff.
- Based on Stella definitions, adapted by NWRM project experts and validated by the European Commission

Sediment capture ponds

Definition

Sediment capture ponds are widely used to "slow down" water being drained from boreal forests. The main function of the sediment capture ponds is to remove prevent pollution of receiving waters downstream of a forest by removing suspended sediment and associated pollutants.
- Based on Stella definitions, adapted by NWRM project experts and validated by the European Commission

Peak flow control structures

Definition

Engineered ponds in peatlands that have been ditched to enhance forest production have the potential to retain water in the landscape and trap sediment without adversely affecting tree growth. Such measures have the potential to limit hydrograph peaks and potentially reduce flooding associated with snowmelt.
- Elaborated by NWRM project experts and validated by the European Commission

Restoration

Definition

Restoration is a management action or set of actions with the aim of restoring natural hydrologic functioning ᅠin the landscape. Restoration of natural functioning can contribute to an environmental balance in water management.
NWRM implementation can either be an enhancement/improvement of the natural hydrologic functioning ᅠin the landscape or a restoration action.