New tools for an integrated hydromorphological assessment of European streams

In this paper, we propose a comprehensive and synergic hydromorphological assessment based on the integration of three tools, originally developed in Italy and then expanded to other European countries within the context of the REFORM project. The Morphological Quality Index (MQI) is a tool designed to assess the overall morphological condition of a stream reach and to classify its current morphological state. The Morphological Quality Index for monitoring (MQIm) is a specific tool for monitoring the tendency of morphological conditions (enhancement or deterioration) in the short term. The Geomorphic Units survey and classification System (GUS) is used to characterise the typical assemblage of geomorphic units within the reach. The three tools, used synergically, can provide an overall assessment of stream reaches which is useful for understanding their functioning, and therefore for supporting the identification of appropriate management actions.