1. Ad hoc task GW and CC Overall objective (WGC mandate)
To make a WGC contribution to horizontal issues, specifically on Climate Change effects on groundwater
expected pressures and impacts
consideration in POMs (make them climate resilient)
input to CIS Expert Group on Climate Change and Water.
Activity on an ad-hoc basis
need a previous approval by the Water Directors and discussions with other WGs where needed.

2. Ad hoc task GW and CC (2)
Pressures on groundwater systems tend to increase,
Primary effects of climate change
associated human induced changes of surface and subsurface water management (= secondary effects)
Secondary impacts of are expected to have the largest short-term effects on groundwater resources.
Examples of secondary impacts:
increase of water demands for human consumption
increased abstraction of groundwater for irrigation
higher evapotranspiration -> falling water tables + salt water intrusion

3. Ad hoc task GW and CC (3)
The second and third River Basin Management Plans for the WFD and GWD are supposed to be fully climate-resilient by 2015
Comparatively little research related to groundwater while it represents a major part of the exploited water resources in Europe.
Groundwater mentioned only briefly in Guidance Document No. 24
EG on CC and Water identified the need for further action on groundwater.
Need for policy-science interface on groundwater and climate change issues
-> support the implementation activities for the 2nd RBMP period
CIS Expert Group on
Climate Change and Water
First WGC comments to this guidance
are available

4. Ad hoc task GW and CC (4): an example of primary impacts (Belgium)
1. HAD_P_H 2. ARPEGE_H
3. HIRHAM_E 4. RCAO_H
5. HIRHAM_H 6. RCAO_E
Expected water levels at the 9 observation wells
Goderniaux et al (FP6 Aquaterra)
Precipitation change (relative)
dryer summer
no change
Temperature difference (°C)
wetter winter
no change

5. Structure of the activity
One or two workshops (2011, 2012)
Interaction with CIS Expert Group on Climate Change and Water
Bridge between science and policy
Presentations of scientific results (e.g. Genesis, WATCH, Aquaterra)
Presentations on policy requirements by MS
Presentations on best practices in RBMP’s by MS
Recommendations for RBMP’s
Programme of measures
Monitoring
Protected areas