Vattenstatus

Vattenstatus is a term used in Swedish water management to describe the overall condition of a region's freshwater resources and water bodies. It encompasses both the availability and reliability of water supplies and the quality and ecological health of rivers, lakes, groundwater and coastal areas. The concept is used by government agencies, municipalities and water utilities to assess current conditions, identify pressures, and guide management actions.

The concept combines several dimensions: water quantity, including availability, reservoir and groundwater levels; water quality, covering chemical, biological and aesthetic properties; ecological status, reflecting habitat diversity and the health of aquatic life; and risk factors such as flood and drought exposure and pollution loads. Human uses, including drinking water supply, irrigation, industry and recreation, are integrated into the assessment to reflect competing demands and potential conflicts.

Measurement and indicators rely on monitoring networks, laboratory analyses and hydrological modelling. Indicators are aligned with national and European frameworks, often using categories such as good, moderate, poor or bad to describe status. Results are published in periodic reports and used to track trends over time and to evaluate the effectiveness of management measures.

Governance involves national authorities, notably the Swedish Agency for Marine and Water Management and the Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute, in collaboration with county administrations and municipalities. Vattenstatus informs permits, watercourse and watershed planning, flood risk management and public communication, contributing to transparency and informed decision-making about water resources.

See also: Water Framework Directive, drinking water quality, hydrology, water management.