For professionals

Hello,

Rivers and streams are a key part of the landscape – but how can we determine in practice whether they are in good ecological condition?

We would like to invite you to the one-day workshop Ecological Status of Water Bodies, which will take place on June 18 at Czech University of Life Sciences Prague. During the workshop, participants will gain practical insight into methods commonly used to assess the ecological status of rivers and streams.

The workshop combines expert lectures with hands-on fieldwork and subsequent analysis of collected samples. Participants will try activities such as water and sediment sampling, measuring basic water quality parameters, and collecting benthic organisms and periphytic algae.

What to expect:
• principles of ecological status assessment under the Water Framework Directive
• the difference between ecological status and ecological potential
• working with biological indicators (macrozoobenthos, periphytic algae)
• practical field methods for monitoring watercourses
• interpretation of field data and its use in ecological status assessment

The workshop is primarily intended for public administration staff, local government representatives, and professionals working in water management or environmental protection. However, representatives of NGOs, environmental education centres, educational institutions, and other organizations interested in water and landscape protection are also welcome. Advanced experience with biological identification is not required – the most important thing is an interest in the topic and a willingness to participate in fieldwork. The programme will also include space for discussion and sharing practical experience.

Participation in the workshop is free of charge. The workshop capacity is limited. The application deadline is June 10, 2026.

We look forward to meeting you at Czech University of Life Sciences Prague in Prague.