Ecosystem Health Monitoring Program Review
The Partnership appointed an EHMP Review Coordinator in January 2010 to facilitate the EHMP review process. The outputs of the review will consist of a report (to be completed by June 2010) that presents the recommendations of an independent Review Panel (a small number of eminent scientists in the fields of monitoring, water quality and aquatic ecology), and a business case that will make recommendations about possible refinement to the EHMP, if required.
An EHMP Review Working Group with representatives from state and local governments, water entities, community groups and the Scientific Expert Panel (SEP) has been established to steer the project on behalf of the EHMP Steering Committee. A 'Call for Submission' to the review process was sent out to all organisations that are members of the EHMP Steering Committee. The EHMP Review Coordinator received 18 responses out of the 19 submission forms sent out; submission responses were summarised into a Submission Report and discussed by the Working Group members.
Working Group Members decided on a ranking system for issues raised - highest priority was given to issues frequently raised and of greatest concern. This ranking system was applied in order to come up with key themes and sessions for the agenda of the Review Panel workshop (Monday 12 April - Friday 16 April).
The Review Coordinator will provide a report based on discussions and recommendations, to be presented to the EHMP Steering Committee in mid-June 2010.For further information, please contact Dr Piet Filet on piet.filet@healthywaterways.org