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Classification

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We use a classification system to measure the pressures effecting our waters, and define the state of Scotland’s water environment.

Pressures impacting our waters

Most of Scotland’s water environment is already in a good condition and subject to fewer pressures than most other European waters. However, there are significant environmental problems caused by a number of pressures, including:

  • diffuse and point source pollution
  • alterations to beds
  • banks and shores
  • alterations to water levels and flows
  • the presence of invasive non-native species. 

For more detail, read the State of Scotland's Water Environment 2024 summary report (MS Word, 1.17 MB). 

About our classification system

We produce an annual Water Framework Directive (WFD) classification for all the water bodies in Scotland. 

Classification underpins river basin management planning, providing information on the state of the water environment and the pressures impacting water bodies.

Our system was devised following EU and UK guidance and is underpinned by a range of biological quality elements, supported by measurements of:

  • chemistry

  • hydrology (changes to water levels and water flows)

  • morphology (changes to the beds, banks and shores of water bodies)

  • assessment of invasive non-native species (INNS). 

How we classify water

  • Surface water bodies (including rivers, lochs, estuaries and coastal bodies) are classified as High, Good, Moderate, Poor or Bad.

  • Groundwater are classified as Good or Poor.

In general, the classification of water bodies describes how much their condition or status differs from near natural conditions. Water bodies that have no changes, or only very minor changes, from undisturbed (reference) conditions are at High status.  Water bodies that have slight changes from undisturbed conditions are at Good status. Water bodies that have moderate changes from undisturbed conditions are at Moderate status. Water bodies that have major changes from undisturbed conditions are at Poor status. Water bodies that have severe changes from undisturbed condition are at Bad status.

To view our classification results for 2007 to the current year, visit the Water Classification Hub.

How we get our results

The classification is produced using monitoring samples and data modelling from a range of years, ending in December of the classification year.

You can find more information on our classification monitoring on our water monitoring page.

The classification results are calculated, verified and published, normally by Autumn of the following year.

Classification Directions

The Scottish Government's Status Directions advise us on how to classify the water environment. The Standards Directions direct us on how to apply environmental standards to the water environment.

The current Classification Directions are below:

Prior to this, the 2014 Directions (and 2015 amendments) were in force from 2013 to 2023. Prior to 2013, the 2009 Directions were in force. 

For more information about our classification systems, contact us.