vattenmyndigheter

Vattenmyndigheter is the Swedish term for public authorities responsible for planning and safeguarding water resources. In Sweden, water management combines national legislation and EU directives with a network of regional bodies collectively referred to as Vattenmyndigheterna. These authorities oversee the ecological and chemical status of water bodies, manage water resources, and protect sources of drinking water.

Their main tasks include developing and monitoring regional water plans, issuing permits for water use and discharges, and coordinating activities related to flood risk management and land-use planning in their areas. They collect and publish data on water quality and ecosystem health, and they engage with stakeholders such as municipalities, counties, industry, and the public to support sustainable use and protection of water resources.

In the national structure, the Havs- och vattenmyndigheten (HaV), or the Swedish Agency for Marine and Water Management, provides coordination and national policy guidance. HaV works to implement national objectives and EU requirements across the country, while the Vattenmyndigheterna operate within defined river basin or coastal areas to apply those policies locally. Together, these authorities aim to maintain healthy aquatic ecosystems, ensure safe drinking water, prevent pollution, and adapt water management to climate change.