Implementing the GIS elements of the European water framework directive

The Water Framework Directive (WFD, 2000/60/EC) introduces a new approach to water resources data and information collection and reporting, providing a more streamlined reporting process and a clearer distinction between the information needs of different actors at different administration levels. It represents an ideal opportunity for the development of an integrated data management system for water-related information. This paper describes the planning approach and the general concepts that should lead to the development of a geospatial database to assist the WFD implementation in Portugal. It focuses the description on the design and development of a prototype for an operational reporting and decision support system including interactive visualization interfaces, and the possibility of plugging in numerical models, namely for the river basin management plans.