Member State report / Art11 / 2014-2020 / D1-P / Finland / Baltic Sea

Report type Member State report to Commission
MSFD Article Art. 11 Monitoring programmes (and Art. 17 updates)
Report due 2014-10-15; 2020-10-15
GES Descriptor D1 Pelagic habitats
Member State Finland
Region/subregion Baltic Sea
Reported by Reporter not found
Report date Date not found; 2020-10-31
Report access
2014 data
2020 data
Monitoring programme Monitoring programme name
MP_D1_4_6_SeabedHabitats
MP_D1_4_6_WaterColumnHabitats
Reference existing programme
BALFI-D01,04,06ben
BALFI-D01,04,06pel
Marine Unit ID
  • BAL-FI-RG-Baltic Sea
  • BAL-FI-RG-Baltic Sea
Q4e - Programme ID
BALFI-D01,04,06ben
BALFI-D01,04,06pel
Q4f - Programme description
General information is available in the HELCOM Monitoring manual (Biodiversity - Seabed habitats) - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/introduction#SeabedHabitats General information on Sub-programmes (Seabed habitat distribution and extent) is available in the HELCOM Monitoring manual at: http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/seabed-habitat-distribution-and-extent/
General information is available in the HELCOM Monitoring manual (Biodiversity - Water column habitats) - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/introduction#WaterColumnHabitats General information on Sub-programmes is available in the HELCOM Monitoring manual (Hydrography) at: http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/hydrography/
Q5e - Natural variability
  • ExpertOpinion
  • Qualitative
  • Quantiative
  • ExpertOpinion
  • Qualitative
  • Quantiative
Q5d - Adequacy for assessment of GES Q5d - Adequate data
Y
Y
Q5d - Established methods
Y
Y
Q5d - Adequate understanding of GES
Y
Y
Q5d - Adequate capacity
Y
Y
Q5f - Description of programme for GES assessment
The monitoring supports indicators which measure the distance to GES. The monitoring is sufficient to detect the natural variability. The monitoring of benthic fauna and flora is established; currently biotopes are being monitored through this monitoring. The Finnish underwater nature mapping program (VELMU) has mapped all benthic biotopes which serves as a baseline for monitoring of the remaining biotopes, which will be assessed by 2018 on the basis of this mapping.
The monitoring supports indicators which measure the distance to GES. The monitoring is sufficient to detect the natural variability.
Q5g - Gap-filling date for GES assessment
By2014
By2014
Q5h - Plans to implement monitoring for GES assessment
Benthic biotope monitoring will be further developed for the next monitoring cycle based on the baseline mapping.
No immediate development needs.
Q6a -Relevant targets Q6a - Environmental target
Target 06 Target 07 Target 08 Target 09 Target 10 Target 20 Target 24 Target 25 Target 26
Target 09 Target 19 Target 23
Q6a - Associated indicator
Target 06 Target 08 Target 09 Target 10 Target 20 Target 24 Target 25 Target 26
Target 09 Target 19 Target 23
Q6b - Adequacy for assessment of targets Q6b_SuitableData
Y
Y
Q6b_EstablishedMethods
Y
Y
Q6d_AdequateCapacity
Y
Y
Q6c - Target updating
Y
Y
Q6d - Description of programme for targets assessment
The progress towards the target will be monitored by a number of indicators (see Finnish Art. 10 report)
The progress towards the target will be monitored by a number of indicators (see Finnish Art. 10 report)
Q6e - Gap-filling date for targets assessment
By2014
By2014
Q6f - Plans to implement monitoring for targets assessment
Q7a - Relevant activities
  • CablesPipelines
  • Dredging
  • MiningSandGravel
  • OffshoreStructures
  • Ports
  • RenewableEnergy
  • Shipping
  • SolidWasteDisposal
  • TourismRecreation
Q7b - Description of monitoring of activities
Data collected from licensing authorities (eg. constructions, dredging) and automatic identification system (AIS) is used in an assessment of pressures by HELCOM in the Baltic Sea region. HELCOM cumulative impact assessments have identified the impacts of activities on marine environment.
The number and location of bathing sites are monitored under this program. Their effects on water quality assessed under the Bathing Water Directive.
Q7c - Relevant measures
Q7e - Adequacy for assessment of measures Q7d - Adequate data
Q7d - Established methods
Q7d - Adequate understanding of GES
Q7d - Adequate capacity
Q7d - Addresses activities and pressures
Q7d - Addresses effectiveness of measures
Q7d - Description of monitoring for measures
Q7f - Gap-filling date for activities and measures
By2014
By2014
Q8a - Links to existing Monitoring Programmes
  • HELCOM
  • Habitats
  • WFD
  • BathingWater
  • HELCOM
  • WFD
Reference sub-programme Sub-programme ID
BALFI-D01,04,06ben-1
BALFI-D01,04,06ben-2
BALFI-D01,04,06ben-3
BALFI-D01,04,06ben-4
BALFI-D01,04,06pel-1
BALFI-D01,04,06pel-2
BALFI-D01,04,06pel-3
BALFI-D01,04,06pel-4
BALFI-D01,04,06pel-5
Sub-programme name
Benthic species - abundance and/or biomass
Benthic species - abundance and/or biomass
Seabed habitats - distribution and extent
Physical disturbance - from dredging and disposal of dredged material
Mobile species - abundance and/or biomass
Plankton blooms (biomass, frequency)
Microbial pathogen levels - in water column (bathing waters)
Water column - hydrological characteristics
Water column - physical characteristics
Q4g - Sub-programmes Sub-programme ID
BALFI-D01,04,06ben-1
BALFI-D01,04,06ben-2
BALFI-D01,04,06ben-3
BALFI-D01,04,06ben-4
BALFI-D01,04,06pel-1
BALFI-D01,04,06pel-2
BALFI-D01,04,06pel-3
BALFI-D01,04,06pel-4
BALFI-D01,04,06pel-5
Sub-programme name
Benthic species - abundance and/or biomass
Benthic species - abundance and/or biomass
Seabed habitats - distribution and extent
Physical disturbance - from dredging and disposal of dredged material
Mobile species - abundance and/or biomass
Plankton blooms (biomass, frequency)
Microbial pathogen levels - in water column (bathing waters)
Water column - hydrological characteristics
Water column - physical characteristics
Q4k - Monitoring purpose
StateImpact
StateImpact
StateImpact
StateImpact Pressurse Activities
StateImpact
StateImpact
StateImpact Activities
StateImpact
StateImpact
Q4l - Links of monitoring programmes of other Directives and Conventions
HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Softbottom fauna - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/benthic-community-species-distribution-and-abundance/softbottom-fauna HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Seabed habitat physical characteristics - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/seabed-habitat-distribution-and-extent/seabed-habitat-physical-characteristics Essential information describing this national sub-programme is available in the above mentioned HELCOM Monitoring manual sub-programme.
This sub-programme also refers to the monitoring which has been reported under the Water Framework Directive (Benthic fauna). Further information describing this national sub-programme is available in: HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Softbottom fauna - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/benthic-community-species-distribution-and-abundance/softbottom-fauna HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Seabed habitat physical characteristics - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/seabed-habitat-distribution-and-extent/seabed-habitat-physical-characteristics
This sub-programme refers to the monitoring which has been reported under the Water Framework Directive (Benthic fauna). Further information describing this national sub-programme is available in: HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Hard bottom species - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/benthic-community-species-distribution-and-abundance/hardbottom-species . HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Habitat forming species - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/seabed-habitat-distribution-and-extent/habitat-forming-species-and-substrates
This sub-programme refers to the monitoring which has been reported under the Water Framework Directive.
Essential information describing this national sub-programme is available in: HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Zooplankton species composition, abundance and biomass - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/zooplankton/zooplankton-species-composition-abundance-and-biomass
This sub-programme also refers to the monitoring which has been reported under the Water Framework Directive. Further information on the sub-programme is described in: HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Phytoplankton species composition, abundance and biomass - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/phytoplankton/species-composition-abundance-and-biomass
This sub-programme refers to the monitoring which has been reported under the Bathing water directive (2006/7/EU) and the Water Framework Directive. Essential information describing this national sub-programme is available at: EEA State of bathing water site: http://www.eea.europa.eu/themes/water/interactive/bathing/state-of-bathing-waters-1
This sub-programme also refers to the monitoring which has been reported under the Water Framework Directive. Further information describing this sub-programme is available in: HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Water column hydrological characteristics - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/hydrography/temperature-salinity-transparency-turbidity
Essential information describing this sub-programme is available in: HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Water column physical characteristics - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/hydrography/waves-currents-%28sealevel%29 HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Ice - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/hydrography/ice
Q5c - Features Q5c - Habitats
  • LitRock LitSed ShallRock ShallCoarseSed ShallSand ShallMud ShallMxdSed ShelfCoarseSed ShelfSand ShelfMud ShelfMxdSed
  • RedSalinity VarSalinity MarineCoast MarineShelf IceHabitat
Q5c - Species list
Q5c - Physical/Chemical features
  • H2S, sediment color, substrate type
  • OxygenLevels
  • PhysicalChemicalOther
  • Salinity
  • SeaBottomTemperature
  • WaveExposure
  • CurrentVelocity
  • IceCover
  • Mixing
  • OxygenLevels
  • PhysicalChemicalOther
  • Salinity
  • SeaBottomTemperature
  • SeaSurfaceTemperature
  • Transparency
  • Turbidity
  • Upwelling
  • pH
  • water level, wave height
Q5c - Pressures
  • PhysDam
  • PhysDam_abrasion
  • PhysDam_extraction
  • PhysDam_silt
  • PhysDisturbance
  • PhysLoss
  • PhysLoss_Seal
  • PhysLoss_Smother
Q9a - Elements
  • littoral sediment
  • macrozoobenthos
  • shelf sublittoral coarse sediment
  • shelf sublittoral mixed sediment
  • shelf sublittoral mud
  • shelf sublittoral sand
  • littoral sediment
  • macrozoobenthos
  • shallow sublittoral coarse sediment
  • shallow sublittoral mixed sediment
  • shallow sublittoral mud
  • shallow sublittoral sand
  • Blue mussel
  • Littoral rock and biogenic reef
  • Macroalgae
  • Macrozoobenthos
  • Shallow sublittoral rock and biogenic reef
  • contaminant levels in dredged material
  • disposal of dredged matter
  • dredging
  • marine constructions
  • selective exploitation of the seabed
  • shipping
  • macrozooplankton
  • phytoplankton
  • Biological disturbance
  • Introduction of microbial pathogens
  • physical characteristics
  • ice
  • physical characteristics
Q5a - GES criteria Relevant GES criteria
  • 1.1
  • 1.2
  • 1.3
  • 1.4
  • 1.5
  • 1.6
  • 4.3
  • 5.3
  • 6.1
  • 6.2
  • 1.4
  • 1.5
  • 1.6
  • 1.7
  • 4.3
  • 5.2
Q5b - GES indicators Relevant GES indicators
  • 1.4.1
  • 1.4.2
  • 1.5.1
  • 1.5.2
  • 1.6.1
  • 1.6.2
  • 1.6.3
  • 4.3.1
  • 5.3.1
  • 6.1.1
  • 6.1.2
  • 6.2.2
  • 6.2.3
  • 1.4.1
  • 1.4.2
  • 1.5.1
  • 1.5.2
  • 1.6.1
  • 1.6.2
  • 1.6.3
  • 1.7.1
  • 4.3.1
  • 5.2.2
  • 5.2.4
Q9b - Parameters monitored (state/impact) Species distribution
  • MP-9b-1-1-1
  • MP-9b-1-1-1
Species population size
Species population characteristics
Species impacts
Habitat distribution
  • MP-9b-1-5-1
  • MP-9b-1-5-1
  • MP-9b-1-5-1
Habitat extent
  • MP-9b-1-6-1
  • MP-9b-1-6-1
  • MP-9b-1-6-1
Habitat condition (physical-chemical)
  • MP-9b-1-7-12
  • MP-9b-1-7-13
  • MP-9b-1-7-6
  • MP-9b-1-7-12
  • MP-9b-1-7-13
  • MP-9b-1-7-6
  • MP-9b-1-7-12
  • MP-9b-1-7-13
  • MP-9b-1-7-5
  • MP-9b-1-7-12
  • MP-9b-1-7-1
  • MP-9b-1-7-13
  • MP-9b-1-7-2
  • MP-9b-1-7-7
  • MP-9b-1-7-13
  • MP-9b-1-7-3
  • MP-9b-1-7-4
  • MP-9b-1-7-5
Habitat condition (biological)
  • MP-9b-1-8-1
  • MP-9b-1-8-2
  • MP-9b-1-8-3
  • MP-9b-1-8-1
  • MP-9b-1-8-2
  • MP-9b-1-8-3
  • MP-9b-1-8-1
  • MP-9b-1-8-2
  • MP-9b-1-8-5
  • MP-9b-1-8-6
  • MP-9b-1-8-1
  • MP-9b-1-8-2
  • MP-9b-1-8-3
  • MP-9b-1-8-1
  • MP-9b-1-8-2
  • MP-9b-1-8-3
Habitat impacts
Q9b - Parameters monitored (pressures) Pressure input
  • MP-9b-2-1-3
Pressure output
  • MP-9b-2-2-4
  • MP-9b-2-2-6
Q9b - Parameters monitored (activity) Activity
  • MP-9b-3-1-4
Q9b Parameters monitored (other) Other
Q41 Spatial scope
TerritorialWaters BeyondMSwaters
WFD_CW TerritorialWaters
WFD_CW
WFD_CW TerritorialWaters EEZ
TerritorialWaters EEZ BeyondMSwaters
TerritorialWaters EEZ BeyondMSwaters
WFD_CW
WFD_CW TerritorialWaters EEZ BeyondMSwaters
WFD_CW TerritorialWaters EEZ BeyondMSwaters
Q4j - Description of spatial scope
HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Softbottom fauna - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/benthic-community-species-distribution-and-abundance/softbottom-fauna
HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Softbottom fauna - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/benthic-community-species-distribution-and-abundance/softbottom-fauna
HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Hard bottom species - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/benthic-community-species-distribution-and-abundance/hardbottom-species . HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Habitat forming species - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/seabed-habitat-distribution-and-extent/habitat-forming-species-and-substrates
Siltation, dredging and selective exploitation of seabed is carried out in the coastal areas of all Finnish marine sub-basins.
HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Zooplankton species composition, abundance and biomass - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/zooplankton/zooplankton-species-composition-abundance-and-biomass
HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Phytoplankton species composition, abundance and biomass - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/phytoplankton/species-composition-abundance-and-biomass
Monitoring is done only on public bathing sites along the Finnish coast. One of the main sources of pathogens are the public bathing sites.
HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Water column hydrological characteristics - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/hydrography/temperature-salinity-transparency-turbidity
HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Water column physical characteristics - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/hydrography/waves-currents-%28sealevel%29 HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Ice - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/hydrography/ice
Marine Unit IDs
  • BAL-FI-RG-Baltic Sea
  • BAL-FI-RG-Baltic Sea
Q4h - Temporal scope Start date- End date
1965-9999
1965-9999
2006-9999
2014-9999
1976-9999
1979-9999
2009-9999
1979-9999
1791-9999
Q9h - Temporal resolution of sampling
  • Yearly
  • Yearly
  • Yearly
  • 6yearly
  • Yearly
  • Yearly
  • 4 times per year
  • Other
  • 3monthly
  • 3yearly
Q9c - Monitoring method
HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Softbottom fauna - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/benthic-community-species-distribution-and-abundance/softbottom-fauna HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Seabed habitat physical characteristics - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/seabed-habitat-distribution-and-extent/seabed-habitat-physical-characteristics Essential information describing this national sub-programme is available in the above mentioned HELCOM Monitoring manual sub-programme.
HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Softbottom fauna - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/benthic-community-species-distribution-and-abundance/softbottom-fauna HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Seabed habitat physical characteristics - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/seabed-habitat-distribution-and-extent/seabed-habitat-physical-characteristics Essential information describing this national sub-programme is available in the above mentioned HELCOM Monitoring manual sub-programme.
HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Hard bottom species - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/benthic-community-species-distribution-and-abundance/hardbottom-species . HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Habitat forming species - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/seabed-habitat-distribution-and-extent/habitat-forming-species-and-substrates HELCOM Combine manual. Annex C-9 Guidelines for monitoring of phytobenthic plant and animal communities in the Baltic Sea http://www.helcom.fi/stc/files/CombineManual/PartC/AnnexC9.pdf
The level of contaminants (Hg, Cd, Cu, PAH, PCB, TBT) and the volume of dredged masses are measured as a part of monitoring of licensed activities along the Finnish coast. The volume of dredged masses are measured and the contaminant levels are determined by standard methods.The cumulative effects of selective exploitation of the seabed is also monitored within this sub-programme. Information on marine constructions and shipping is collected through licensing authorities and HELCOM.
HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Zooplankton species composition, abundance and biomass - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/zooplankton/zooplankton-species-composition-abundance-and-biomass
HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Phytoplankton species composition, abundance and biomass - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/phytoplankton/species-composition-abundance-and-biomass
National Supervisory Authority for Welfare and Health - http://www.valvira.fi/files/ohjeet/Yleisten_uimarantojen_uimaveden_valvonta.pdf (in Finnish)
HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Water column hydrological characteristics - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/hydrography/temperature-salinity-transparency-turbidity
HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Water column physical characteristics - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/hydrography/waves-currents-%28sealevel%29 HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Ice - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/hydrography/ice
Q9d - Description of alteration to method
Monitoring of shallow seabed habitats has been started in the Finnish underwater mapping program VELMU. The VELMU-program provides baseline habitat maps for the basis of future monitoring. The monitoring methods are described in the HELCOM Monitoring manual (see above).
Q9e - Quality assurance
  • COMBINE
  • COMBINE
  • COMBINE
  • Contamination: National. Dredging: HELCOM. Construction: EIA legislation
  • Other
  • COMBINE
  • COMBINE
  • National
  • COMBINE
  • COMBINE
Q9f - Quality control
RealandDelayedValidation
RealandDelayedValidation
RealandDelayedValidation
Unknown
RealandDelayedValidation
RealandDelayedValidation
Unknown
RealandDelayedValidation
RealandDelayedValidation
Q9g - Spatial resolution of sampling Q9g - Proportion of area covered %
100
100
Q9g - No. of samples
HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Softbottom fauna - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/benthic-community-species-distribution-and-abundance/softbottom-fauna . HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Seabed habitat physical characteristics - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/seabed-habitat-distribution-and-extent/seabed-habitat-physical-characteristics
HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Softbottom fauna - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/benthic-community-species-distribution-and-abundance/softbottom-fauna . HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Seabed habitat physical characteristics - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/seabed-habitat-distribution-and-extent/seabed-habitat-physical-characteristics
HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Hard bottom species - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/benthic-community-species-distribution-and-abundance/hardbottom-species . HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Habitat forming species - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/seabed-habitat-distribution-and-extent/habitat-forming-species-and-substrates . HELCOM Combine manual. Annex C-9 Guidelines for monitoring of phytobenthic plant and animal communities in the Baltic Sea http://www.helcom.fi/stc/files/CombineManual/PartC/AnnexC9.pdf
Monitoring of all activities is done in all Finnish coastal areas (all sub-basins).
HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Zooplankton species composition, abundance and biomass - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/zooplankton/zooplankton-species-composition-abundance-and-biomass
HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Phytoplankton species composition, abundance and biomass - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/phytoplankton/species-composition-abundance-and-biomass
80 coastal sampling sites are sampled 4 times per year
HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Water column hydrological characteristics - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/hydrography/temperature-salinity-transparency-turbidity
HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Water column physical characteristics - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/hydrography/waves-currents-%28sealevel%29 HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Ice - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/hydrography/ice
Q9i - Description of sample representivity
Information on the following activities is collected at HELCOM level: RenewableEnergy, MiningSandGravel, Dredging, Ports, CablesPipelines, OffshoreStructures, Shipping and SolidWasteDisposal. See under "Action areas" at: http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas
Q10a - Scale for aggregation of data
  • Region
  • Region
  • Region
  • Region
  • Region
  • Region
  • Region
  • EU
  • Region
  • Region
Q10b - Other scale for aggregation of data
Q10c - Access to monitoring data Q10c - Data type
ProcessedData DataProducts
ProcessedData DataProducts
ProcessedData DataProducts
ProcessedData DataProducts
UnprocessedData ProcessedData DataProducts
UnprocessedData ProcessedData DataProducts
ProcessedData DataProducts
UnprocessedData ProcessedData DataProducts
UnprocessedData ProcessedData DataProducts
Q10c - Data access mechanism
URLview
URLview
URLview
URLview
URLview
URLview
URLview
LocationInternationalDC
URLview
Q10c - Data access rights
Open
Open
Open
Open
Open
Open
Open
Open
Open
Q10c - INSPIRE standard
SeaRegions SpeciesDistribution
SeaRegions SpeciesDistribution
HabitatsBiotopes SpeciesDistribution
Geology HabitatsBiotopes SpeciesDistribution
HabitatsBiotopes SeaRegions SpeciesDistribution
HabitatsBiotopes SeaRegions SpeciesDistribution
ManagementZonesReportingUnits
Hydrography
Hydrography
Q10c Date data are available
2015-12
2015-12
2015-12
2015-12
2015-12
2015-12
2015-12
2015-12
Q10c - Data update frequency
Yearly
Yearly
Yearly
6yearly
Unknown
Yearly
Unknown
Yearly
Unknown
Q10d - Description of data access
HELCOM CORE indicator - State of the soft-bottom macrofauna communities - http://www.helcom.fi/Core%20Indicators/HELCOM-CoreIndicator_State_of_the_soft-bottom_macrofauna_communities.pdf OIVA public web portal on environmental information (in Finnish) - www.ymparisto.fi/oiva OIVA is linked to the Finnish benthos database POHJE Essential information on data access is available in the HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Softbottom fauna - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/benthic-community-species-distribution-and-abundance/softbottom-fauna
HELCOM CORE indicator - State of the soft-bottom macrofauna communities - http://www.helcom.fi/Core%20Indicators/HELCOM-CoreIndicator_State_of_the_soft-bottom_macrofauna_communities.pdf OIVA public web portal on environmental information (in Finnish) - www.ymparisto.fi/oiva OIVA is linked to the Finnish benthos database POHJE Essential information on data access is available in the HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Softbottom fauna - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/benthic-community-species-distribution-and-abundance/softbottom-fauna
HELCOM CORE indicator - Population structure of long-lived macrozoobenthic species http://www.helcom.fi/Core%20Indicators/HELCOM-CoreIndicator_Population_structure_of_long-lived_macrozoobenthic_species.pdf OIVA public web portal on environmental information (in Finnish) - http://www.ymparisto.fi/oiva OIVA is linked to the Finnish benthos database POHJE Essential information on data access is available in the HELCOM Monitoring manual: Sub-programme: Hard bottom species - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/benthic-community-species-distribution-and-abundance/hardbottom-species (NOT COORDINATED) Sub-programme: Soft bottom flora - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/benthic-community-species-distribution-and-abundance/softbottom-flora
OIVA public web portal on environmental information (in Finnish) - http://www.ymparisto.fi/oiva
HELCOM CORE Indicator: Zooplankton mean size and total abundance - http://www.helcom.fi/Core%20Indicators/HELCOM-CoreIndicator-Zooplankton_mean_size_and_total_abundance.pdf Raw data available on NOAA/COPEPOD-plankton database - http://www.st.nmfs.noaa.gov/plankton/content/region_baltic.html More information on data access is available in the HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Zooplankton species composition, abundance and biomass - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/zooplankton/zooplankton-species-composition-abundance-and-biomass
ICES data portal - http://www.ices.dk/marine-data/data-portals/Pages/DOME.aspx HELCOM Data and Map services - http://helcom.fi/baltic-sea-trends/data-maps Soon also available on Finnish open data portal OIVA - https://wwwp2.ymparisto.fi/scripts/oiva.asp (in Finnish) More information on data access is available in the HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Phytoplankton species composition, abundance and biomass - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/phytoplankton/species-composition-abundance-and-biomass
Information can be found at EEA State of bathing water site - http://www.eea.europa.eu/themes/water/interactive/bathing/state-of-bathing-waters-1 and at the National Supervisory Authority for Welfare and Health - http://www.valvira.fi/files/ohjeet/Yleisten_uimarantojen_uimaveden_valvonta.pdf (in Finnish)
The data is open access and available to the EEA though HELCOM and ICES Web access points. Finnish Meteorological Institute Open Data Manual - http://en.ilmatieteenlaitos.fi/open-data-manual SYKE public data portal OIVA in Finnish - https://wwwp2.ymparisto.fi/scripts/oiva.asp Information on data access is also available in the HELCOM Monitoring manual - Sub-programme: Water column hydrological characteristics - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/hydrography/temperature-salinity-transparency-turbidity
Finnish Meteorological Institute Open Data Manual - http://en.ilmatieteenlaitos.fi/open-data-manual More information on data access is available in the HELCOM Monitoring manual: - Sub-programme: Water column physical characteristics - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/hydrography/waves-currents-%28sealevel%29 - Sub-programme: Ice - http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/hydrography/ice
Descriptor
D1.6
Monitoring strategy description
The programme consists of five sub-programmes, three of which provide information on the biological agents of the water column: Coastal and offshore animal and phytoplankton, as well as the number of microbials in coastal bathing areas. Two sub-programmes provide information on changes in basic p...
Coverage of GES criteria
Adequate monitoring was in place in 2014
Gaps and plans
No gaps.
Related targets
  • LUONTO1
  • LUONTO2
Coverage of targets
Adequate monitoring was in place in 2014
Related measures
  • BALFI-M006-EUTRO - 'EUTRO6 - Assessment of the importance of the Baltic Sea's internal nutrient stores and the possibilities for reducing these'
Coverage of measures
Adequate monitoring was in place in 2014
Related monitoring programmes
  • 04
  • 06pel-1
  • 06pel-2
  • 06pel-3
  • 06pel-4
  • 06pel-5
  • BALFI-d01
  • BALFI-d05-1
  • BALFI-d05-2
Programme code
BALFI-D01,04,06pel-1
BALFI-D01,04,06pel-2
BALFI-D01,04,06pel-3
BALFI-D01,04,06pel-4
BALFI-D01,04,06pel-5
BALFI-D05-1
BALFI-D05-2
Programme name
Zooplankton species composition and abundance
Phytoplankton species composition, abundance and biomass
Public bathing site pathogens
Water column physical characteristics
Waves, sea level and ice
Water column - chemical characteristics
Nutrient inputs - land-based sources
Update type
Same programme as in 2014
Same programme as in 2014
Same programme as in 2014
Same programme as in 2014
Same programme as in 2014
Same programme as in 2014
Same programme as in 2014
Old programme codes
Programme description
Zooplankton species composition, abundance and biomass
Phytoplankton species composition, abundance and biomass are monitored by counting phytoplankton from preserved water samples to identify changes in phytoplankton communities (e.g. harmful and invasive species
Monitoring is done only on public bathing sites along the Finnish coast. Monitoring is based on water samples from public bathing sites.
Monitoring of physical and chemical characteristics (temperature, salinity, secchi-depth). Other indicators such as density is calculated based on measurements made.
Program monitors wave action, sea level and ice cover in the Baltic Sea.
The sub-programme monitors the state of the basic chemical properties of the water column in the Baltic Sea and their changes. Surveillance is carried out in Finland’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ), both offshore and coastal areas. Monitoring also includes stations in Swedish, Estonian and Russian waters.
The sub-programme monitors the discharge of nutrients, solids and organic matter from the catchment area into the sea, as well as nitrogen deposition. They end up in the sea by deposition, with rivers and – as direct point pollution – from urban waste water treatment plants, industrial plants...
Monitoring purpose
  • Environmental state and impacts
  • Environmental state and impacts
  • Environmental state and impacts
  • Environmental state and impacts
  • Environmental state and impacts
  • Environmental state and impacts
  • Pressures at source
Other policies and conventions
  • HELCOM Monitoring programmes
  • HELCOM Monitoring programmes
  • Water Framework Directive
  • Bathing Water Directive
  • HELCOM Monitoring programmes
  • Water Framework Directive
  • HELCOM Monitoring programmes
  • HELCOM Monitoring programmes
  • Water Framework Directive
  • HELCOM Monitoring programmes
  • Water Framework Directive
Regional cooperation - coordinating body
  • HELCOM
  • HELCOM
  • Other
  • HELCOM
  • HELCOM
  • HELCOM
  • HELCOM
Regional cooperation - countries involved
DE,DK,EE,LT,LV,PL,SE
DE,DK,EE,LT,LV,PL,SE
DE,DK,EE,LT,LV,PL,SE
DE,DK,EE,LT,LV,PL,SE
DE,DK,EE,LT,LV,PL,SE
DE,DK,EE,LT,LV,PL,SE
Regional cooperation - implementation level
Coordinated data collection
Coordinated data collection
Agreed data collection methods
Common monitoring strategy
Coordinated data collection
Coordinated data collection
Coordinated data collection
Monitoring details
Program follows HELCOM Combine - https://helcom.fi/media/publications/Guidelines-for-monitoring-of-mesozooplankton.pdf
Samples are taken onboard research vessels under the coastal monitoring (part of EU WFD) and offshore monitoring.
Sampled from public bathing sites.
HELCOM monitoring manual: http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/hydrography/waves-currents-(sealevel) http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/hydrography/ice
Data is collected by samples from river mouths and by automated recorders. Source identifications is made by numerical modelling and by using reported data by actors.
Features
Pelagic broad habitats
Newly introduced non-indigenous species
Established non-indigenous species
Shelf ecosystems
Pelagic broad habitats
Newly introduced non-indigenous species
Shelf ecosystems
Eutrophication
Input of microbial pathogens
Eutrophication
Eutrophication
Physical and hydrological characteristics
Hydrographical changes
Physical and hydrological characteristics
Eutrophication
Chemical characteristics
Physical and hydrological characteristics
Input of nutrients – diffuse sources, point sources, atmospheric deposition
Input of organic matter – diffuse sources and point sources
Pelagic broad habitats
Newly introduced non-indigenous species
Established non-indigenous species
Shelf ecosystems
Pelagic broad habitats
Newly introduced non-indigenous species
Shelf ecosystems
Eutrophication
Input of microbial pathogens
Eutrophication
Eutrophication
Physical and hydrological characteristics
Hydrographical changes
Physical and hydrological characteristics
Eutrophication
Chemical characteristics
Physical and hydrological characteristics
Input of nutrients – diffuse sources, point sources, atmospheric deposition
Input of organic matter – diffuse sources and point sources
Pelagic broad habitats
Newly introduced non-indigenous species
Established non-indigenous species
Shelf ecosystems
Pelagic broad habitats
Newly introduced non-indigenous species
Shelf ecosystems
Eutrophication
Input of microbial pathogens
Eutrophication
Eutrophication
Physical and hydrological characteristics
Hydrographical changes
Physical and hydrological characteristics
Eutrophication
Chemical characteristics
Physical and hydrological characteristics
Input of nutrients – diffuse sources, point sources, atmospheric deposition
Input of organic matter – diffuse sources and point sources
Pelagic broad habitats
Newly introduced non-indigenous species
Established non-indigenous species
Shelf ecosystems
Pelagic broad habitats
Newly introduced non-indigenous species
Shelf ecosystems
Eutrophication
Input of microbial pathogens
Eutrophication
Eutrophication
Physical and hydrological characteristics
Hydrographical changes
Physical and hydrological characteristics
Eutrophication
Chemical characteristics
Physical and hydrological characteristics
Input of nutrients – diffuse sources, point sources, atmospheric deposition
Input of organic matter – diffuse sources and point sources
Elements
  • Coastal pelagic habitat
  • Shelf pelagic habitat
  • Not Applicable
  • Cercopagis pengoi
  • Secondary producers
  • Coastal pelagic habitat
  • Shelf pelagic habitat
  • Not Applicable
  • Primary producers
  • Cyanobacteria
  • Diatoms & Dinoflagellates
  • Not Applicable
  • Cyanobacteria
  • Transparency
  • Mixing
  • Temperature
  • Salinity
  • Ice
  • Sea level
  • Wave regime
  • DIN
  • DIP
  • Silicate (SiO4)
  • TOC - total organic carbon
  • TP
  • Dissolved oxygen (O2)
  • Dissolved carbon dioxide (pCO2)
  • H2S
  • pH
  • Freshwater input
  • Turbidity (silt/sediment loads)
  • Not Applicable
  • Not Applicable
GES criteria
D1C6
D2C1
D2C2
D4C1
D4C2
D4C3
D1C6
D2C1
D4C1
D4C2
D5C3
D1C6
D5C3
D5C4
NotRelevan
NotRelevan
NotRelevan
D5C1
D5C5
NotRelevan
NotRelevan
NotRelevan
NotRelevan
Parameters
  • Other
  • Size distribution
  • Presence
  • Abundance (number of individuals)
  • Extent
  • Other
  • Abundance (number of individuals)
  • Biomass
  • Size distribution
  • Other
  • Presence
  • Other
  • Biomass
  • Extent
  • Other
  • Extent
  • Duration
  • Extent
  • Transparency of water
  • Other
  • Temperature
  • Salinity
  • Extent
  • Other
  • Length
  • Wave action
  • Concentration in water
  • pco2 - alkalinity
  • Concentration in water
  • Ph
  • Deposition
  • AMO-WC
  • Other
  • Other
Parameter Other
Biomass; Abundance
Diversity
Abundance; Species richness
Species richness; Diversity
Ratio of Diatoms & Dinoflagellates
Number of pathogens
Stratification of the water column
Sea level
Nitrogen and phosphorus amount (tons)
Organic matter amount (tons)
Spatial scope
  • EEZ (or similar)
  • EEZ (or similar)
  • Coastal waters (WFD)
  • EEZ (or similar)
  • EEZ (or similar)
  • EEZ (or similar)
  • Terrestrial part of MS
Marine reporting units
  • BAL-FI-AS
  • BAL-FI-BB
  • BAL-FI-BS
  • BAL-FI-GF
  • BAL-FI-NB
  • BAL-FI-QK
  • BAL-FI-AS
  • BAL-FI-BB
  • BAL-FI-BS
  • BAL-FI-GF
  • BAL-FI-NB
  • BAL-FI-QK
  • BAL-FI
  • BAL-FI-AS
  • BAL-FI-BB
  • BAL-FI-BS
  • BAL-FI-GF
  • BAL-FI-NB
  • BAL-FI-QK
  • BAL-FI
  • BAL-FI-AS
  • BAL-FI-BB
  • BAL-FI-BS
  • BAL-FI-GF
  • BAL-FI-NB
  • BAL-FI-QK
  • BAL-FI-AS
  • BAL-FI-BB
  • BAL-FI-BS
  • BAL-FI-GF
  • BAL-FI-NB
  • BAL-FI-QK
Temporal scope (start date - end date)
1979-9999
1979-9999
2009-9999
1899-9999
1973-9999
1965-9999
1970-9999
Monitoring frequency
Yearly
Yearly
Yearly
Continually
Continually
Yearly
Monthly
Monitoring type
  • In-situ sampling coastal
  • In-situ sampling offshore
  • In-situ sampling coastal
  • In-situ sampling offshore
  • In-situ sampling coastal
  • In-situ sampling coastal
  • In-situ sampling offshore
  • Numerical modelling
  • Remote satellite imagery
  • In-situ sampling coastal
  • In-situ sampling offshore
  • Remote surveillance
  • In-situ sampling coastal
  • In-situ sampling offshore
  • Administrative data collection
  • In-situ sampling coastal
  • Numerical modelling
  • Remote surveillance
Monitoring method
  • HELCOM Manual for monitoring in COMBINE programme
  • HELCOM Guidelines for monitoring phytoplankton species composition, abundance and biomass
  • HELCOM Manual for monitoring in COMBINE programme
  • Bathing Water Profiles: Best Practice and Guidance (2009)
  • HELCOM Manual for monitoring in COMBINE programme
  • Other monitoring method
  • HELCOM Manual for monitoring in COMBINE programme
  • HELCOM Guidelines for the annual and periodical compilation and reporting of waterborne pollution inputs to the Baltic Sea (PLC-Water)
Monitoring method other
Automated wave buoys, automated mareografs and satellite imagery.
Quality control
Offshore sampling follows HELCOM COMBINE program and coastal sampling instructions from Finnish Environment Institute (SYKE). Ring tests for zooplankton identifiers (HELCOM ZEN), Inter-and intra-laboratory calibrations.
Monitoring follows instructions from Finnish Environment Institute (SYKE), which are based on HELCOM COMBINE program. Certificate of phytoplankton identification is required from person identifying phytoplankton from the sample
Laboratories has to fill requirements made by National Supervisory Authority for Welfare and Health
The quality system is formalized in the HELCOM COMBINE manual: http://www.helcom.fi/action-areas/monitoring-and-assessment/monitoring-manual/hydrography/temperature-salinity-transparency-turbidity
Automated and manual quality checks on wave buoys and mareografs. Ice service operates as part of Weather and Safety Centre which follows ISO 9001:2008. Ice data is automatically and manually checked.
The offshore monitoring parameters (research vessels and Alg@line), with the exception of pCO2, comply with the standard for testing laboratories (SFS-EN ISO/IEC 17025) and are determined by the FINAS-accredited Environment Testing Laboratory (FIN-T003).
Both sampling and laboratory analyses are quality assurance activities carried out by staff trained according to the standards and guidelines in force (Kuunen et al. 2008). The air deposition model is produced by EMEP and the annual report reflects the model’s validation and uncertainty.
Data management
Data saved to SYKE data center, National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administrations (NOAA) plankton database and International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) data portal. Results can be found from HELCOM indicators
Data is saved into Finland's environmental administrations Hertta- data system and submitted to ICES.
National Supervisory Authority for Welfare and Health reports bathing water quality to European Commission.
SYKE’s public database and submitted to ICES.
Data is saved to Finnish Meteorological Institutes database
SYKE database , submitted to ICES and summarized by HELCOM.
HELCOM PLC database
Data access
Related indicator/name
Contact
National Supervisory Authority for Welfare and Health - https://www.valvira.fi/ymparistoterveys/terveydensuojelu/uimavesi
References
HELCOM Combine - https://helcom.fi/media/publications/Guidelines-for-monitoring-of-mesozooplankton.pdf
Aroviita, J., Mitikka, S., Vienonen S. (toim.) 2019: Pintavesien tilan luokittelu ja arviointiperusteet vesienhoidon kolmannella kaudella. Suomen ympäristökeskuksen raportteja 37 / 2019. HELCOM 2017: Monitoring of phytoplankton species composition, abundance and biomass.
Kettunen, I, Mäkelä, A. & Heinonen, P. 2008. Vesistötietoa näytteenottajille. Suomen ympäristökeskus ympäristöopas.