The TMAP approach has been based on the OSPAR strategy which is currently tuned with the WFD (EMMA activities, GIC Guidance on eutrophication). The Wadden Sea is still regarded as “eutrophication problem area” under OSPAR. It is likely that the “good ecological status” under the WFD will not be reached until 2015 because of high nutrient inputs.
Information basis for trilateral assessment are national monitoring programs which have been established under OSPAR and the WFD. These can be regarded as sufficient to assess the eutrophication status and the Target implementation (see Tab. 5.1).
A conceptual model has been developed that links riverine input and organic matter input with the nutrient cycles in the Wadden Sea. On that basis, autumn values of N remineralization products (NH4 + NO2) as a Wadden Sea specific indicator of the eutrophication status of the Wadden Sea (Beusekom et al., 2001, 2005).
(Table) Parameters with monitoring locations and frequencies and the relation to the other monitoring requirements.
| Parameters | Description | Location | Frequency | Method | WFD | BD/HD | OSPAR | OTHER | Remark |
| Mandatory TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Atmospheric nutrient inputs | N, P | Existing stations | - | - | - | - | Modelling | ||
| Nutrients in water | Dissolved inorganic NO3-N, NO2-N, NH4-N and ortho-PO4, total N and P | 1-6 stations per region | 1/week - 1/month | X | - | X | - | Winter concentrations and seasonal cycle | |
| Riverine nutrient inputs | Nitrate, Nitrite, Ammonium, Phosphate | Existing river sampling stations | Annual mean input | X | - | X | - | Annual mean input |
Remarks:
*Number of stations per region depends on number of WFD water body typed to be covered. Regions: NL, Nds/HH, S-H, DK
5.1 Parameters
Monitoring shall consider the following nutrient species
The following supporting parameters should also be measured (not mandatory)
5.2 Monitoring locations
For each of the four region (The Netherlands, Niedersachsen/Hamburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Denmark), at least one sampling location per WFD water body type should be established as appropriate. The existing time series should be continued.
With regard to nutrient monitoring, it can be distinguished between 8 areas in the Wadden Sea mainly based on the different hydrological regimes. The main criteria were the degree of influence of rivers and the exchange with the adjacent North Sea (residence time of freshwater or seawater in a tidal basin and the flushing time) (see also De Jong et al., 1999).
For the selection of monitoring stations, areas with different levels of remineralization should be selected. Furthermore, also the occurrence of nutrient limitation in summer in some areas of the Wadden Sea have to be taken into account. These 8 areas are either more or less influenced by rivers or are dominated by North Sea water (numbering according to figure 1).
Influenced by rivers:
North Sea dominated type:
Depending on the monitoring purpose and on the parameter, monitoring should be executed either in all areas or in selected areas (to be selected on national level).
The TMAP approach has been based on the OSPAR strategy which is currently tuned with the WFD (EMMA activities, GIC Guidance on eutrophication). The Wadden Sea is still regarded as “eutrophication problem area” under OSPAR. It is likely that the “good ecological status” under the WFD will not be reached until 2015 because of high nutrient inputs.
Information basis for trilateral assessment are national monitoring programs which have been established under OSPAR and the WFD. These can be regarded as sufficient to assess the eutrophication status and the Target implementation (see Tab. 5.1).
(Table) Parameters with monitoring locations and frequencies and the relation to the other monitoring requirements.
| Parameters | Description | Location | Frequency | Method | WFD | BD/HD | OSPAR | OTHER | Remark |
| Mandatory TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Chlorophyll a | Chl-a | 1-6 stations per region | 1/week - 1/month | X | - | X | - | - | |
| Phytoplankton | Species composition, abundance | 1-6 stations per region | 1/week - 1/month | X | - | X | - | - |
Remarks:
* Number of stations per region depends on number of WFD water body typed to be covered. Regions: NL, Nds/HH, S-H, DK
5.1 Parameters
5.2 Monitoring locations
The sampling station of existing monitoring programs should be kept. Additional sampling may be performed from the shore (pier, jetty) in selected tidal basins.
For each of the four regions (The Netherlands, Niedersachsen/Hamburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Denmark), at least one sampling location per WFD water body type should be established as appropriate. The existing time series should be continued.
[to be included: Figure 1: QSR subareas, with existing monitoring stations]
The TMAP approach has been based on the OSPAR strategy which is currently tuned with the WFD (EMMA activities, GIC Guidance on eutrophication). The Wadden Sea is still regarded as “eutrophication problem area” under OSPAR. It is likely that the “good ecological status” under the WFD will not be reached until 2015 because of high nutrient inputs.
Information basis for trilateral assessment are national monitoring programs which have been established under OSPAR and the WFD. These can be regarded as sufficient to assess the eutrophication status and the Target implementation with regard to macroalgae.
(Table) Parameters with monitoring locations and frequencies and the relation to the other monitoring requirements.
| Parameters | Description | Location | Frequency | Method | WFD | BD/HD | OSPAR | OTHER | Remark |
| Mandatory TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Area and location (macroalgae) | ha and % of tidal flats | 1-6 stations per region | 1/y | Remote sensing/Ground truth | X | - | X | - | According methods in national programs |
| Biomass (macroalgae) | g / dry weight | 1-6 stations per region | 1/y | Remote sensing/Ground truth | X | - | X | - | According methods in national programs |
| Species composition (macroalgae) | No of species or genera | 1-6 stations per region | 1/y | Remote sensing/Ground truth | X | - | X | - | According methods in national programs |
Remarks:
5.1 Parameters
5.2 Monitoring locations
For each of the four region (The Netherlands, Niedersachsen/Hamburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Denmark), at least one sampling location per WFD water body type should be established as appropriate. The existing time series should be continued.
[to be included: Figure 1: QSR subareas, with existing monitoring stations]
Long-time series in the Wadden Sea during the last 30 years have proofed their value in indicating changes in species composition and biomass although large inter-annual fluctuations have occurred (e.g. due to high spat fall of bivalves) (QSR, 2004) and regional differences were observed. The existing time series should be continued with an annual frequency at locations representative for a specific Wadden Sea region (or water body) and, if necessary, supplemented with locations monitored every 3 years to assess the macrozoobenthos development for a larger area (entire tidal basins or water body).
(Table) Parameters with monitoring locations and frequencies and the relation to the other monitoring requirements.
| Parameters | Description | Location | Frequency | Method | WFD | BD/HD | OSPAR | OTHER | Remark |
| Mandatory TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Abundance (macrozobenthos) | Number of individuals per species per m² | 1 – 2 transects per region | 1/y,to 3 y | X | X | X | - | - | |
| Biomass (macrozoobenthos) | g AFDW per m² | 1 – 2 transects per region | 1/y,to 3 y | X | X | X | - | - | |
| Species composition (macrozoobenthos) | Number of species | 1 – 2 transects per region | 1/y,to 3 y | X | X | X | - | - | |
| Optional TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Age (macrozoobenthos) | Age frequency distribution for selected species | 1 – 2 transects per region | 1/y,to 3 y | X | X | X | - | - |
Remarks:
* Contribution to assessment of favorable conservation status of habitat types.
5.1 Parameters
The following parameters of macrozoobenthos shall be monitored:
As a voluntary parameter, the species distribution pattern of the macrozoobenthos should be determined if the sampling strategy allows this analysis. Furthermore, additional interpretation parameters should be measured to enable proper documentation and interpretation of the macrozoobenthos monitoring data.
a. Geographical information
b. Sediment characteristics
During zoobenthos sampling, a small corer sample has to be taken for determination of the sediment characteristics:
c. Weather conditions
The relevant information on the weather conditions should be taken from relevant meteorological reports.
d. Other information
Other relevant information on human use and associated disturbances (e.g. fishery) since the previous sampling occasion has to be compiled.
The TMAP Strategy on monitoring of hazardous substances in sediment and biota is based on flexibility and ability to normalize trilateral data to comparable information. Harmonised analysis of co-variables (parameters) is essential. The ad-hoc working group hazardous substances (2006) prepared a proposal for chemical monitoring in the TMAP.
(Table) Parameters with monitoring locations and frequencies and the relation to the other monitoring requirements.
| Parameters | Description | Location | Frequency | Method | WFD | BD/HD | OSPAR | OTHER | Remark |
| Mandatory TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Metals (sediment) | As, Cr, Zn, Ni, Cu, Cd, Hg, Pb | 1-6 stations per region | 3 – 6 years (1/y at few stations) | X | - | X | - | - | |
| Organochlorines (sediment) | DDTs, HCHs, HCB | 1-6 stations per region | 3 – 6 years (1/y at few stations) | X | - | X | - | - | |
| Organotin (sediment) | TBT, DBT, MBT 1), TPT | 1-6 stations per region | 3 – 6 years (1/y at few stations) | X | - | X | - | - | |
| PAH (sediment) | (CEMP, WFD-PS) | 1-6 stations per region | 3 – 6 years (1/y at few stations) | X | - | X | - | - | |
| PCBs (sediment) | 28, 52, 101, 118, 138, 153, 180 | 1-6 stations per region | 3 – 6 years (1/y at few stations) | X | - | X | - | - | |
| Optional TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Brominated flame retardants (sediment) | (BDE 47, 99, 100, 153) 1) | 1-6 stations per region | 3 – 6 years (1/y at few stations) | X | - | X | - | - | |
| Non-polar pesticides and parmaceuticals 1) | Dieldrin, Clotrimazole | 1-2 stations per region | 1/y Frebruary / September | - | - | - | - | - | |
| Perfluorated compounds 1) | PFOS, PFOA | 1-2 stations per region | 1/y Frebruary / September | - | - | - | - | - |
Remarks:
* Number of stations per region depends on number of WFD water body types to be covered.
** According CIS Guidance on Chemical Monitoring / Netherlands: No WFD chemical monitoring in sediment
1) on voluntary basis
5.1 Parameters
Table 5.2 Monitoring shall consider the following parameters:
| Analyte Group | Analyte | Sediment Fraction | Co-variable |
| Metals | As, Cr, Zn, Ni, Cu, Cd, Hg, Pb | OSPAR: <63µm Optional: <20µm |
TOC Al, Li Grain size distribution <20µm; 20-63µm |
| PAH | (CEMP, WFD-PS) | OSPAR: <63µm Optional: <20µm |
TOC Grain size distribution <20µm; 20-63µm |
| PCBs | 28, 52, 101, 118, 138, 153, 180 | OSPAR: <63µm Optional: <20µm |
TOC |
| Organochlorines | DDTs, HCHs, HCB | OSPAR: <63µm Optional: <20µm |
TOC |
| Organotin | TBT, DBT, MBT, TPT | OSPAR: <63µm Optional: <20µm |
TOC |
| Brominated flame retardants | (BDE 47, 99, 100, 153) 1) | OSPAR: <63µm Optional: <20µm |
TOC |
| Non-polar pesticiedes and pharmaceuticals |
Dieldrin, Clotrimazole 1) | OSPAR: <63µm Optional: <20µm |
TOC |
| Perfluorinated coumpounds | PFOS, PFOA 1) | OSPAR: <63µm Optional: <20µm |
TOC |
1) 1-2 stations/y/region; denser distribution and time scale at voluntary basis
In order to allow comparison of samples collected at different locations and/or collected at different times, a compensation for the natural variability on geochemical characteristics by a normalization procedure is necessary.
Additional co-variables should be measured, which are required for the normalisation of contaminant concentrations in sediments (see OSPAR guidelines, Technical Annex 5): grain size distribution, TOC, Al, Li.
5.2 Monitoring locations
For each of the four regions (The Netherlands, Niedersachsen/Hamburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Denmark), at least one sampling location per WFD water body type should be established. The existing time series should be continued.
The existing monitoring program of beached birds has been carried out since 1984 and was valuable tool to assess extent and trends in chronic oil pollution (QSR, 2004) and the effectiveness of measures to combat chronic oil pollution. The TBBS covers all typical Wadden Sea avifauna, and other abundant seabirds, such as scoter.
The relevant guidelines were elaborated in the framework of the JAMP by The Netherlands and Germany as lead countries in 1995 (JAMP Guidelines on standard methodology for the use of oiled beached birds as indicators of marine oil pollution, 1995).
(Table) Parameters with monitoring locations and frequencies and the relation to the other monitoring requirements.
| Parameters | Description | Location | Frequency | Method | WFD | BD/HD | OSPAR | OTHER | Remark |
| Mandatory TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Number of beached birds per species (TBBS) | representative stretches per countries, selected on a national level | 1-3 / y (winter) | - | - | X | - | According national existing program and OSPAR | ||
| Oil rate per species (TBBS) | representative stretches per countries, selected on a national level | 1-3 / y (winter) | - | - | X | - | According national existing program and OSPAR | ||
| Optional TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Oil analysis (TBBS) | Oil type (fingerprint) | Selected sites | - | - | X | - | Oil analysis to be carried out on voluntary basis (e.g. to identify source of oil) |
Remarks:
5.1 Parameters
5.2 Monitoring locations
Monitoring of salt marshes is carried out in all countries on a regular basis. Different national vegetation keys are in use (e.g. the Dutch SALT97), which are translated into a common TMAP vegetation typology (Bakker et al., 2005). It allows a trilateral comparable assessment of salt marsh vegetation on the basis of the existing monitoring schemes. The vegetation reflects the important salt marsh zones (pioneer zone, low marsh, high marsh, green beaches, brackish marsh) and human interference including drainage, groynes and land use (Bakker et al., 2005). It can be applied
The TMAP vegetation key can also be used as a basis for an assessment within the WFD (Dijkema et al., 2005; Adolph et al., 2007) and the HD (Bakker et al., 2005).
Further parameters may be selected on national level depending on local pressures and risk assessment procedures under the Habitats and Water Framework Directive.
(Table) Parameters with monitoring locations and frequencies and the relation to the other monitoring requirements.
| Parameters | Description | Location | Frequency | Method | WFD | BD/HD | OSPAR | OTHER | Remark |
| Mandatory TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Area (saltmarshes) | Size and location (ha) | Entire area*** | 6 years | Rs and ground truth | X | X | - | - | - |
| Drainage (saltmarshes) | 3 types (none, within last 10 years, more than 10 y ago) | Entire area | 6 years | Rs and ground truth | X | X | - | - | - |
| Land use (saltmarshes) | Cutting, grazing (intensive, moderate, none) | Entire area | 6 years | Rs and ground truth | - | X | - | - | - |
| Selected typical species (saltmarshes) | Abundance and composition of typical species | Selected areas | Annually | X | X | - | - | not mandatory | |
| Vegetation (saltmarshes) | HD types (ha) | Entire area*** | 6 years | Rs and ground truth | X | X | - | - | BD/HD: 2004-09 only type 1330; in 2011-15, both 1310, 1320 and 1330 |
| Vegetation types (saltmarshes) | vegetation types (ha) | Entire area*** | 6 years (selected sites: annually) |
Rs and ground truth | X | X | - | - | TMAP key in NL + D |
Remarks:
* DK: Salt marshes not part of WFD monitoring. NL: Mainland salt marshes not part of WFD monitoring
** Under discussion in national HD and WFD monitoring
*** In Denmark only inside the Natura 2000 areas
5.1 Parameters
Area
Location and spatial extent (GIS polygon) of salt marshes (total area and vegetation types) should be calculated for sub-areas by GIS procedures.
Vegetation
Habitat Directive (HD) types: Location and spatial extent (GIS polygon) of HD types 1310, 1320 and 1330. In Denmark the location and spatial extent of HD-types is only mapped within Natura 2000 sites.
TMAP vegetation types: Location and spatial extent (GIS polygon) of TMAP vegetation types aggregated from the national salt marsh monitoring data (Note: Data on vegetation types for the entire area are available from The Netherlands and Germany. For Denmark, data are available from selected monitoring sites).
Species (not mandatory)
Abundance and composition of typical salt marsh species (for selected monitoring sites only). In Denmark all vascular plant species are recorded in plots.
Land use
The effects of the management or agricultural utilization of salt marshes by grazing are reflected in the vegetation structure. The terms ‘no grazing’, ‘moderate grazing’, ‘intensive grazing’ and ‘cutting’ are defined by the canopy of the vegetation and its heterogeneity, and thus describe the real grazing situation of a certain area irrespective of the stocking density.
Three types can be distinguished concerning grazing intensity:
Additional information like stocking rates and types of animals are also important to assess grazing intensity.
Drainage measures
Three different types of drainage pattern of salt marshes should be distinguished:
It has to be tested if the information can be derived from the vegetation maps or if also information from other sources are necessary, which would require additional effort.
Additional parameters (not mandatory)
In addition, further parameters are to be monitored on project basis, depending on scientific objectives and/or management goals for specific areas. These parameters should also be made available for a trilateral assessment:
It is recommended to compile information about coastal protection measures with a direct impact on the salt marshes, e.g. construction or maintenance of brushwood groynes, sod removal and clay extraction.
Breeding and migratory birds
Monitoring of breeding and migratory birds on salt marshes are carried out in the Joint Monitoring Programs of Breeding and Migratory Birds.
5.2 Monitoring locations
The entire area of salt marshes in the Wadden Sea (including brackish marshes in the estuaries) shall be monitored for the parameters:
Selected monitoring sites can be specified by the countries to monitor species composition or additional parameters relevant for specific national assessment.
Monitoring of geomorphologic characteristics in the TMAP is carried out to assess possible changes due to changes in climate and the effect of these changes on habitats, species and communities. Information on area of tidal flats and sediment type distribution can be obtained from remote sensing surveys and in combination with existing field sampling (such as benthos monitoring).
(Table) Parameters with monitoring locations and frequencies and the relation to the other monitoring requirements.
| Parameters | Description | Location | Frequency | Method | WFD | BD/HD | OSPAR | OTHER | Remark |
| Mandatory TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Area (tidal flats) | Size and location (km²) | Entire area | 6 years | Ground truth and/or remote sensing | X | X | - | - | - |
| Sediment type distribution | Location and area of sediment types (sand, mixed, mud) | Entire area and/or selected sites | 6 years | Ground truth and/or remote sensing | X | X | - | - | - |
Remarks:
5.1 Parameters
5.2 Monitoring locations
For each of the four region (The Netherlands, Niedersachsen/Hamburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Dennmark), at least one sampling location per WFD water body type should be established as appropriate.
A draft TMAP guideline with common definitions and a classification of seagrass beds was developed in 2006 which allows a common interpretation of monitoring results of the entire Wadden Sea. Because of the extreme uneven distribution of intertidal seagrass, different monitoring methods are in use.
In the marine and brackish coastal waters of the Wadden Sea, the aquatic phanerogames comprise two genetically highly diverse seagrasses (Z. marina, Z. noltii) and restricted to brackish conditions the wigeon grass Ruppia maritima.
Seagrass should be monitored covering all potential intertidal flats for seagrass in the entire Wadden Sea. Within the Wadden Sea regional assessments and analyses of spatial distribution should be carried out to fulfill the reporting commitments of the relevant EC Directives.
Selected monitoring sites should be assigned which are representative for a larger part of the Wadden Sea and where field surveys can be carried out with a high frequency. This should also include potential seagrass sites.
Additional surveys should be considered to include suitable subtidal areas for Zostera marina and brackish transitional water bodies for Ruppia spp.
The following strategy should be followed (see Table 5.1):
Complete mapping (see A.) of the entire tidal flats is done every year in areas with dense seagrass beds (which can easily be identified by airborne surveys). In areas with sparse coverage, annual monitoring is done in field survey on transects; a complete mapping of the entire tidal flats is done at least every 6 years.
In both cases detailed monitoring (see B.) is carried out at selected sites to monitor further characteristics of the bed (as required by WFD and HD), these parameters are optional for the TMAP.
(Table) Parameters with monitoring locations and frequencies and the relation to the other monitoring requirements.
| Parameters | Description | Location | Frequency | Method | WFD | BD/HD | OSPAR | OTHER | Remark |
| Mandatory TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Area (Seagrass) | size of intertidal seagrass beds (km²) | Entire Area and representative areas | Entire area: at least 6 y, Selected sites: 1/y | X | X | X | - | - | |
| Coverage (seagrass) | Seagrass coverage of the beds (%) | Entire Area and representative areas | Entire area: at least 6 y, Selected sites: 1/y | X | X | X | - | - | |
| Location (seagrass) | coordinates of intertidal seagrass beds (GIS polygon) | Entire Area and representative areas | Entire area: at least 6 y, Selected sites: 1/y | X | X | X | - | - | |
| Optional TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Biomass (seagrass) | Selected sites | 1/y | X | X | - | - | Optional for TMAP | ||
| Sediment characteristics (seagrass) | Selected sites | 1/y | X | X | - | - | Optional for TMAP | ||
| Species composition (seagrass) | Zostera marina, Z. noltii, Ruppia maritima, green macroalgae, others | Selected sites | 1/y | X | X | - | - | Optional for TMAP |
Remarks:
* Seagrass as characteristic feature of habitat types 1140 ”Mudflats and sandflats” and 1160 “Large shallow inlets and bays”.
5.1 Parameters
The parameters currently monitored are sufficient to fulfill the objectives. Further adaptations may be required at a later stage and the comparability of results from different sub-regions should be enhanced.
TMAP Parameters (covering entire intertidal area);
Optional TMAP parameters (if available from ongoing national programs and from selected field sampling sites):
5.2 Monitoring locations
Entire Wadden Sea area:
Selected sites (to be specified by the countries):
The existing national monitoring programs have been tuned to enable a trilateral assessment for the entire area (e.g. by GIS tools) with regard to size and biomass of intertidal mussel. Information on the development of individual mussel beds is also collected to assess status of these beds.
Due to irregular spatfall, larger interannual fluctuations may occur on regional level which requires monitoring with an annual frequency.
Subtidal blue mussel beds are monitored in NL, SH, and DK in the framework of the fishery management and have not yet been integrated in the TMAP.
(Table) Parameters with monitoring locations and frequencies and the relation to the other monitoring requirements.
| Parameters | Description | Location | Frequency | Method | WFD | BD/HD | OSPAR | OTHER | Remark |
| Mandatory TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Area and distribution (mussel beds) | size of blue mussel beds (km²), coordinates of mussel beds (GIS polygon) | Entire intertidal area | 1/y | X | X | X | - | - | |
| Biomass (mussel beds) | Tons fresh weight | Entire intertidal area | 1/y | X | X | - | - | Calculated from selected beds | |
| Coverage (mussel beds) | mussel coverage of the beds (%) | Entire intertidal area | 1/y | X | X | - | - | Calculated from selected beds | |
| Optional TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Additional parameters for individual beds | length frequency distribution, condition index, structure of bed | - | - | - | - | - |
Remarks:
5.1 Parameters
Mandatory parameters
Additionally, parameters for individual beds should be monitored (not mandatory) such as:
5.2 Monitoring locations
Information concerning the existing reefs is unsatisfactory and based on single surveys several years ago. Methods for routine subtidal habitat monitoring are not yet available. There are research projects on subtidal mapping in Lower Saxony, Schleswig-Holstein and The Netherlands with the aim to develop appropriate methods. Results from these projects will provide information about the existing reefs and how to approach subtidal monitoring in the TMAP.
(Table) Parameters with monitoring locations and frequencies and the relation to the other monitoring requirements.
| Parameters | Description | Location | Frequency | Method | WFD | BD/HD | OSPAR | OTHER | Remark |
| Mandatory TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Subtidal habitats (sabellaria reefs) | km² and coordinates (GIS polygon) | Entire area and/or German Wadden | At least every 6 years | X | - | X | - | Result of research project to be included | |
| Optional TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Subtidal habitats (mussel beds) | km² and coordinates (GIS polygon) | Entire area and/or German Wadden | At least every 6 years | X | - | X | - | Result of research projects to be included |
Remarks:
5.1 Parameters
Mandatory TMAP Parameters (covering entire intertidal area):
Optional TMAP parameters (if available from ongoing national programs and from selected field sampling sites):
5.2 Monitoring locations
Monitoring programs of demersal fish in the Wadden Sea have been carried out on a regular basis for over 30 years. Pelagic fish monitoring has been carried out in Schleswig-Holstein since 1991. In the QSR 2004 these results have been published for the entire Wadden Sea for the first time (Vorberg et al., 2005). Because fish are an important element of the Wadden Sea ecosystem and require also reporting under the Habitats Directive, the Water Framework Directive and OSPAR the existing monitoring (covering the Dutch and German Wadden Sea) are integrated in the TMAP.
A TMAP assessment tool is under preparation (temporal and spatial distribution of selected priority fish species, species composition), which has been based on the existing monitoring programs and is directly connected to the assessment tool developed for transitional waters. A linkage will be made with the newly established WFD pelagic fish monitoring in the transitional waters of Ems, Weser, Elbe and Eider.
Proposals for fish targets have been developed and are being discussed in connection with the further development of the Wadden Sea Plan (§6 SchD).
(Table) Parameters with monitoring locations and frequencies and the relation to the other monitoring requirements.
| Parameters | Description | Location | Frequency | Method | WFD | BD/HD | OSPAR | OTHER | Remark |
| Mandatory TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Distribution and abundance of species (Tidal and Offshore Area) | Abundance and mean length of priority species, species composition (all species),(demersal, pelagic) | Existing locations (demersal; NL + D; pelagic: SH) | 1/y | X | X | X | - | Demersal fish: NL: DFS, D: DYFS Pelagic: SH | |
| Distribution and abundance of species in transitional waters (Tidal Area / | Abundance of species (pelagic) | 3-4 sites from fresh to marine waters | 1/y to 2y | X | X | X | - | WFD monitoring in Ems, Weser, Elbe, Eider |
Remarks:
5.1 Parameters
5.2 Monitoring locations
[to be included: map with existing fish monitoring transects and stations]
The TMAP dune typology is an appropriate tool to combine monitoring data obtained by different methods into a common system with different levels of detail (such as specific TMAP vegetation types in the Netherlands and Lower Saxony and HD types 2110-2190 for all countries). Existing national mapping of dunes should be continued in order to assess the overall occurrence of dune types in the Wadden Sea and to deliver input into the TMAP dune typology.
Monitoring at selected sites (field surveys) should be carried out with a higher frequency than the monitoring of vegetation or habitat types for the entire area. This detailed monitoring at selected sites aims to assess structure and function, species and communities according to the HD and pressure indicators (such as the critical load approach in the Danish NOVANA).
In order to assess the development of dune types in more detail and to react e.g. on short term development, at least an annual monitoring is necessary. This is done in the Netherlands and Germany with the concept of permanent plots and in Denmark within the NOVANA stations and plots by stochastic statistical sampling.
Beach monitoring could not yet be implemented in the TMAP because of lacking knowledge and methods.
The monitoring strategy has been summarized in Table 5.1.
(Table) Parameters with monitoring locations and frequencies and the relation to the other monitoring requirements.
| Parameters | Description | Location | Frequency | Method | WFD | BD/HD | OSPAR | OTHER | Remark |
| Mandatory TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Location and area (beaches and dunes) | HD-types (ha) | Entire area | 6-10 y | - | X | - | - | Transfer into TMAP dune typology | |
| Location and area (beaches and dunes) | Vegetation types (ha) | Entire area / selected sites | 6-10 y | - | X | - | - | Transfer into TMAP dune typology | |
| Selected typical species (dunes) | Abundance | Selected sites | 1/y | - | X | - | - | - | |
| Vegetation (dunes) | Species composition | Selected sites | 1/y | - | X | - | - | - | |
| Optional TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Land use (dunes) | Area covered by settlements and infrastructure | Entire area | 6 y | - | X | - | - | Indicator for recreational pressure on dunes | |
| Nitrogen deposition (dunes) | Nutrient contents in lichens | DK islands | 1/y | - | X | - | - | Pilot (optional TMAP parameter) | |
| Nitrogen deposition (dunes) | Lichen cover in grey dunes | DK islands | 1/y | - | X | - | - | Pilot (optional TMAP parameter) | |
| Nitrogen deposition (dunes) | kg N/ha/y | Entire area | 1/y | - | X | - | - | Modeling every 6 y | |
| Soil charactistics (beaches and dunes) | C/N ratio | DK islands | 1/y | - | X | - | - | Pilot (optional TMAP parameter) | |
| Soil charactistics (beaches and dunes) | pH | DK islands | 1/y | - | X | - | - | Pilot (optional TMAP parameter) |
Remarks:
5.1 Parameter
The parameters currently monitored are sufficient to fulfill the objectives. Further adaptations may be required at a later stage and the comparability of results from different countries should be enhanced.
TMAP Parameters (covering entire Wadden Sea Area):
TMAP Parameters (selected sites or monitoring plots at representative sites):
Other parameters (optional) from various sources (not part of the TMAP):
5.2 Monitoring locations
Entire Wadden Sea area:
Selected sites (to be specified by the countries):
The existing Joint Monitoring program of Breeding Birds (JMBB) have been successful for over 15 years and should be continued. The frequency for monitoring and reporting will be linked to the 6-year reporting period (in accordance with the HD, BD) by the bird expert groups.
(Table) Parameters with monitoring locations and frequencies and the relation to the other monitoring requirements.
| Parameters | Description | Location | Frequency | Method | WFD | BD/HD | OSPAR | OTHER | Remark |
| Mandatory TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Number and distribution (breeding birds) | a. Census areas, b. Complete surveys of selected species, c. periodical counts of a larger range of species within the entire area. |
According TMAP/JMBB guidelines | annual, 5 y (total counts) | - | X | - | X | Inclusion of additional species in preparation by JMBB. Financial implications to be assessed |
Remarks:
5.1 Parameters
5.2 Monitoring locations
The program on Monitoring Breeding Birds in the Wadden Sea "Numbers and distribution of breeding birds” includes:
The first draft of the guideline has been presented and discussed at the extra JMBB meeting in Wilhelmshaven on August 29, 2007. Different options of implementation (scientific validity versus different budgets) including a baseline scenario with a minimum of sample sites, parameters and species has been discussed and agreed at the JMBB 07/2 meeting on October 31, 2007.
(Table) Parameters with monitoring locations and frequencies and the relation to the other monitoring requirements.
| Parameters | Description | Location | Frequency | Method | WFD | BD/HD | OSPAR | OTHER | Remark |
| Mandatory TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Hatching success (birds) | 2-4 sites per region | Annually (between April - July) | According TMAP pilot project | - | X | - | X | 15 regions in total | |
| Reproductive success (birds) | 2-4 sites per region | Annually (between April - July) | According TMAP pilot project | - | X | - | X | 15 regions in total |
Remarks:
5.1 Parameters
For the monitoring of breeding success, a well-established set of parameters is available (Exo et al., 1996; Thyen et al., 1998; Willems et al., 2005):
For practical reasons, not all parameters are relevant for all species. Some species can only be monitored during the nest-period, others only during the chick-rearing period (also with respect to disturbance, e.g. no visits to spoonbill-colonies during incubation because this species is easily disturbed). Table 5.2 lists all potential species and relevant parameters for each species.
(Table 5.2) Species and parameters to be monitored in a TMAP monitoring scheme for breeding success in the Wadden Sea. X possible, - not possible or not recommended because of disturbance.
| Species | hatching success | clutch size | onset laying | reproductive success | growth chicks | survival chicks |
| Eurasian Spoonbill | - | - | - | x | - | - |
| Common Eider | - | - | - | x | - | - |
| Oystercatcher | x | x | x | x | - | x |
| Avocet | x | x | x | x | - | x |
| Black-headed Gull | x | x | x | x | x | x |
| Lesser Black-backed Gull | x | x | x | x | x | x |
| Herring Gull | x | x | x | x | x | x |
| Sandwich Tern | x | x | x | x | x | x |
| Common Tern | x | x | x | x | x | x |
| Arctic Tern | x | x | x | x | x | x |
| Priority | high | high | high | high | medium | medium |
5.2 Monitoring locations
Selected census areas: at least two areas in each sub-region (four areas for Oystercatcher and Redshank). Disturbances should be reduced to a minimum.
The existing Joint Monitoring program of Migratory Birds (JMMB) have been successful for over 15 years and should be continued. It was concluded that additional migratory bird species can be included into the TMAP within the existing budget.
With regard to the assessment of the Targets concerning food availability, roosting and moulting areas, natural flight distances, specific projects should be initiated instead of inclusion of new parameters into the revised TMAP.
(Table) Parameters with monitoring locations and frequencies and the relation to the other monitoring requirements.
| Parameters | Description | Location | Frequency | Method | WFD | BD/HD | OSPAR | OTHER | Remark |
| Mandatory TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Number and distribution of migratory birds | Number of birds per species and counting site | Entire Wadden Sea area, selected sites | - | X | - | X | Additional species can be included (species selection by JMMB ), within budget | ||
| Optional TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Moulting birds (selected species) | - | - | - | - | Species selection by JMMB in preparation | ||||
| Occurrence of selected typical species (birds) | Numbers and distribution | Offshore Area | - | X | - | - | - |
Remarks:
5.1 Parameters
Number of birds per species and counting site.
5.2 Moitoring locations
Entire Wadden Sea area:
Selected sites:
The Joint Monitoring Program of Migratory Birds is carried out as described by Rösner (1993), Rösner et al. (1994), Meltofte et al. (1994), and Poot et al. (1996). It includes three sub-projects:
a. Complete surveys of all waterbirds in the entire area
b. Synchronous counts of certain species in the entire area
Synchronous counts of certain, typical Wadden Sea species, where additional counts are of particular importance and which are done during their period of peak occurrence: These are at least:
c. Spring-tide counts in selected areas
Counts of waterbirds which are carried out on selected spring-tide count sites during or near to the time of the spring tide.
The existing monitoring scheme for harbour seals should be continued and the current monitoring of grey seals should further be coordinated and trilaterally harmonized by the TSEG.
Monitoring of harbour porpoise should be done within a North Sea wide framework (Hammond et al., 2002). The results of the MINOS project in Schleswig-Holstein (Eskildsen et al., 2002) will be evaluated before deciding whether it is useful to include the harbour porpoise monitoring in the TMAP; this concerns the trilateral Offshore Area of the Schleswig-Holstein and the Lower Saxon Wadden Sea.
(Table) Parameters with monitoring locations and frequencies and the relation to the other monitoring requirements.
| Parameters | Description | Location | Frequency | Method | WFD | BD/HD | OSPAR | OTHER | Remark |
| Mandatory TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Number and distribution (harbour seals) | No of counted seals (adults & pups) / counting area | Entire area | 1/y (5 flights) | - | X | - | X | According Seal Management Plan (SMP) | |
| Optional TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Number and distribution (grey seals) | No of grey seal / counting area (adults and pups) | Entire area | 1/y | - | X | - | X | National surveys (to be continued trilaterally coordinated) | |
| Number and distribution (harbour porpoise) | No of harbour porpoises / counting area | Offshore Area as relevant | Await evaluation of MINOS results | - | X | - | - | National and/or North Sea wide surveys according to national HD obligations |
Remarks:
5.1 Parameters
In addition, monitoring of marine mammals regarding migration, diseases, age structure, sex ratio should be carried out on the national level according to the Seal Management Plan (SMP).
5.2 Monitoring locations
For harbour seals:
- entire Wadden Sea
For grey seals:
- entire Wadden Sea or areas with grey seal colonies
For harbour porpoise:
- offshore area of the Wadden Sea Area
- entire North Sea
The TMAP Strategy on monitoring of hazardous substances in sediment and biota is based on flexibility and ability to normalize trilateral data to comparable information. Harmonised analysis of co-variables (parameters) is essential. The ad-hoc working group hazardous substances (2006) prepared a proposal for chemical monitoring in the TMAP.
(Table) Parameters with monitoring locations and frequencies and the relation to the other monitoring requirements.
| Parameters | Description | Location | Frequency | Method | WFD | BD/HD | OSPAR | OTHER | Remark |
| Mandatory TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Metals (blue mussels) | Zn, Ni, Cu, Cd, Hg, Pb | 1-6 stations per region | 1/y or every 2 years | X | - | X | - | - | |
| Organochlorines (blue mussels) | DDTs, HCHs, HCB | 1-6 stations per region | 1/y or every 2 years | X | - | X | - | - | |
| Organotin (blue mussels) | TBT, DBT, MBT 1), TPT | 1-6 stations per region | 1/y or every 2 years | X | - | X | - | - | |
| PAH (blue mussels) | (CEMP, WFD-PS) | 1-6 stations per region | 1/y or every 2 years | X | - | X | - | - | |
| PCBs (blue mussels) | 28, 52, 101, 118, 138, 153, 180 | 1-6 stations per region | 1/y or every 2 years | X | - | X | - | - | |
| Optional TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Brominated flame retardants (blue mussels) | (BDE 47, 99, 100, 153) 1) | 1-6 stations per region | 1/y or every 2 years | X | - | X | - | - | |
| Non-polar pesticides and parmaceuticals 1) | Dieldrin, Clotrimazole | 1-2 stations per region | 1/y Frebruary / September | - | - | - | - | - | |
| Perfluorated compounds 1) | PFOS, PFOA | 1-2 stations per region | 1/y Frebruary / September | - | - | - | - | - |
Remarks:
* Number of stations per region depends on number of WFD water body typed to be covered.
** According CIS Guidance on Chemical Monitoring / Netherlands: No WFD chemical monitoring in biota
1) on voluntary basis
5.1 Parameters
Table 5.2 Monitoring shall consider the following parameters:
| Analyte Group | Analyte | Tissue | Co-variable |
| Metals | As, Cr, Zn, Ni, Cu, Cd, Hg, Pb | homogenized soft body tissue | LC, WW, DW, LW, CI |
| PAH | (CEMP, WFD-PS) | homogenized soft body tissue | LC, WW, DW, LW, CI |
| PCBs | 28, 52, 101, 118, 138, 153, 180 | homogenized soft body tissue | LC, WW, DW, LW, CI |
| Organochlorines | DDTs, HCHs, HCB | homogenized soft body tissue | LC, WW, DW, LW, CI |
| Organotin | TBT, DBT, MBT 1), TPT | homogenized soft body tissue | LC, WW, DW, LW, CI |
| Brominated flame retardants | (BDE 47, 99, 100, 153) 1) | homogenized soft body tissue | LC, WW, DW, LW, CI |
| Non-polar pesticiedes and pharmaceuticals |
Dieldrin, Clotrimazole 1) | homogenized soft body tissue | LC, WW, DW, LW, CI |
| Perfluorinated coumpounds | PFOS, PFOA 1) | homogenized soft body tissue | LC, WW, DW, LW, CI |
1) on voluntary basis
The interpretation parameters required for contamination monitoring in blue mussels are the fat content and the condition index. The shell length is determined for documentation and comparability.
The shell length is measured according to standard procedures from the umbo to the anterior margin of the shell to the nearest mm.
The condition index at a given blue mussel bed is determined using subsamples taken during sampling for blue mussel abundance as described under 5.5.4.2. The sampling period in spring is used when the water temperature is below or near 4°C in order to record the condition before spawning. The condition index is the ratio of cooked meat vs. shell length. The mussels are cooked for 5 minutes to separate the meat from the shell. It is measured to obtain an estimate of the nutritional status and viability at a given location (and to record the reproductive effort of the blue mussel population in a given area). For further details of the field surveys conducted on blue mussel see respective guideline on blue mussel.
5.2 Monitoring locations
For each of the four regions (The Netherlands, Niedersachsen/Hamburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Denmark), at least one sampling location per WFD water body type should be established. The existing time series should be continued.
The TMAP Strategy on monitoring of hazardous substances in sediment and biota is based on flexibility and ability to normalize trilateral data to comparable information. Harmonised analysis of co-variables (parameters) is essential. The ad-hoc working group hazardous substances (2006) prepared a proposal for chemical monitoring in the TMAP.
(Table) Parameters with monitoring locations and frequencies and the relation to the other monitoring requirements.
| Parameters | Description | Location | Frequency | Method | WFD | BD/HD | OSPAR | OTHER | Remark |
| Mandatory TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Metals (fish) | Zn, Ni, Cu, Cd, Hg, Pb | 1-6 stations per region | 1/y or every 2 years | X | - | X | - | Hg in muscle, other in liver | |
| Organochlorines (fish) | DDTs, HCHs, HCB | 1-6 stations per region | 1/y or every 2 years | X | - | X | - | - | |
| Organotin (fish) | TBT, DBT, MBT 1), TPT | 1-6 stations per region | 1/y or every 2 years | X | - | X | - | - | |
| PAH (fish) | (CEMP, WFD-PS) | 1-6 stations per region | 1/y or every 2 years | X | - | X | - | - | |
| PCBs (fish) | 28, 52, 101, 118, 138, 153, 180 | 1-6 stations per region | 1/y or every 2 years | X | - | X | - | - | |
| Optional TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Brominated flame retardants (fish) | (BDE 47, 99, 100, 153) 1) | 1-6 stations per region | 1/y or every 2 years | X | - | X | - | - | |
| Non-polar pesticides and parmaceuticals 1) | Dieldrin, Clotrimazole | 1-2 stations per region | 1/y Frebruary / September | - | - | - | - | - | |
| Perfluorated compounds 1) | PFOS, PFOA | 1-2 stations per region | 1/y Frebruary / September | - | - | - | - | - |
Remarks:
* Number of stations per region depends on number of WFD water body typed to be covered.
** According CIS Guidance on Chemical Monitoring / Netherlands: No WFD chemical monitoring in biota
1) on voluntary basis
5.1 Parameters
Table 5.2 Monitoring of pollutants in fish shall consider the following parameters:
| Analyte Group | Analyte | Tissue Flounder | Tissue Eelpout | Co-variable |
| Metals | As, Cr, Zn, Ni, Cu, Cd, Hg, Pb | Muscle: Hg Liver: As, Cr, Zn, Ni, Cu, Cd, Pb |
Muscle | LC, WW, DW, LW |
| PAH | (CEMP, WFD-PS) | Liver | Muscle | LC, WW, DW, LW |
| PCBs | 28, 52, 101, 118, 138, 153, 180 | Liver | Muscle | LC, WW, DW, LW |
| Organochlorines | DDTs, HCHs, HCB | Liver | Muscle | LC, WW, DW, LW |
| Organotin | TBT, DBT, MBT 1), TPT | Liver | Muscle | LC, WW, DW, LW |
| Brominated flame retardants | (BDE 47, 99, 100, 153) 1) | Liver | Muscle | LC, WW, DW, LW |
| Non-polar pesticiedes and pharmaceuticals |
Dieldrin, Clotrimazole 1) | Liver | Muscle | LC, WW, DW, LW |
| Perfluorinated coumpounds | PFOS, PFOA 1) | Liver | Muscle | LC, WW, DW, LW |
1) on voluntary basis
The interpretation parameters required for contamination monitoring in fish are the lipid content, and the age of specimens (optional).
The age structure of flounder and eelpout in a given area is determined by samples taken for abundance estimates. The age structure is the number of individuals per age-class over all age classes. Age may be determined firstly by the Peterson-Method, where age-classes are estimated from size classes, i.e. age structure corresponds to size composition, and secondly by interpretation of the otolith structure. Age analysis is recommended to be carried out by the laboratory which is in charge of the field surveys and the respective parameters.
For further details of the field surveys conducted on these fish species see the respective guidelines.
5.2 Monitoring locations
For each of the four regions (The Netherlands, Niedersachsen/Hamburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Denmark), at least one sampling location per WFD water body type should be established. The existing time series should be continued.
(Table) Parameters with monitoring locations and frequencies and the relation to the other monitoring requirements.
| Parameters | Description | Location | Frequency | Method | WFD | BD/HD | OSPAR | OTHER | Remark |
| Mandatory TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Metals (bird eggs) | Hg | 1-6 stations per region | 1/y | X | - | X | - | - | |
| Organochlorines (bird eggs) | DDTs, HCHs, HCB | 1-6 stations per region | 1/y | X | - | X | - | - | |
| PCBs (bird eggs) | 28, 52, 101, 118, 138, 153, 180 | 1-6 stations per region | 1/y | X | - | X | - | - | |
| Optional TMAP parameters | |||||||||
| Brominated flame retardants (bird eggs) | (BDE 47, 99, 100, 153)1) | 1-6 stations per region | 1/y | X | - | X | - | - |
Remarks:
Location: Selection of representative stations per region depends on location of bird colonies and feeding range of birds.
WFD: According CIS Guidance on Chemical Monitoring / Netherlands: No WFD chemical monitoring in biota
1) BDE on voluntary basis
5.1 Parameters
For the selection of the variables, the JAMP guidelines (OSPAR, 1997) have been taken into account.
The following heavy metals are analyzed in bird eggs:
The following organic contaminants are analyzed in bird eggs (according to JAMP):
A review of the parameters selection should be carried out in regular intervals.
5.2 Monitoring locations
Sampling sites should reflect important breeding areas and species. To collect the necessary number of eggs over the period of the monitoring program sampling sites should be chosen, where sufficient pairs of birds can be expected to breed for the required number of years and where disturbances can be reduced to a minimum. Both coastal areas adjacent to the open sea and known "hot spot", such as estuaries, should be included (OSPAR, 1997).
Monitoring areas in the Wadden Sea shall be selected on the national level.
Bird eggs were collected in the following sub-areas of the Wadden Sea (numbering according to Essink et al., 2005).