This book presents the results of thirty-four case studies in an EU-sponsored project on heavily modified water bodies. The account emphasizes the methods used in the process of identification and designation, and identifies further research needs. The contents are the basis for the agreed European Guidance on artificial and heavily modified water bodies to be used by practitioners in the implementation of the Water Framework Directive.

This open access book presents (selected) new and innovative developments for sustainable and fish-friendly hydropower. It offers unique insights into the challenges, practices and policies of hydropower developments across 8 European countries, providing examples from on-site studies and European-wide analyses. The case studies throughout the book are practical "real-world" examples, which are intended to serve as inspiration for anyone who would like to know more about how solutions for more sustainable hydropower production can be designed and implemented. Hydropower is an important renewable energy source, which, however, can also impact aquatic ecosystems, fish populations and hydro-morphology. EU and national water, environmental and energy legislation strive for sustainable energy and water resource management as well as the protection of important habitats and species. These have an effect on the requirements and decision making processes for hydropower planning, commissioning and operation. With a high variety of measures existing and site-specific conditions as well as national and EU level legal requirements to consider, it can be difficult to determine, what issues to address and which measures to implement.

Disclaimer The work reported in this book was carried out prior to the publication of the final guidance document on Heavily Modified and Artificial Water Bodies of the Water Framework Directive Common Implementation Strategy. The European Commission, the project donors, the project managers, the Working Group on Heavily Modified Water Bodies of the Common Implementation Strategy and the authors do not necessarily endorse all approaches that were taken in the case studies that are reported. About Ecologic Ecologic, Institute for International and European Environmental Policy, is a private not-for-profit think tank for applied environmental research, policy analysis and c- sultancy with offices in Berlin and Brussels. An independent, non-partisan body, Ecologic is dedicated to bringing fresh ideas to environmental policies and sustainable development. Ecologic s work programme focuses on obtaining practical results. It c- ers the entire spectrum of environmental issues and includes the integration of en- ronmental concerns into other policy fields. Ecologic is the German partner in the network of Institutes for European Envir- mental Policy. Founded in 1995, Ecologic has a multi-disciplinary staff that includes lawyers, negotiators, social and natural scientists, economists, technologists, and pl- ners. With a focus on Europe and North America, Ecologic s activities cover a growing geographical area and involve policy-makers, business leaders, technical experts and representatives of civil society organisations. Ecologic is officially recognised as being in the public interest. Donations to Ecologic are tax-deductible."