1. Navigation and the Water Framework Directive Seminar, Brussels, 31st January 2007
Well-attended conference: over 130 participants
Morning conference-style; lively discussion
Afternoon: three parallel workshop sessions
Sediment management and river basin planning
Delivering WFD-compliant hydromorphological change
Relationship between WFD and EU Maritime Policy
WFD Navigation Task Group met 28th February
Decisions on follow up actions

2. Sediment management & river basin planning
Key conclusions
Sediment is an essential natural component of coastal, estuarine and freshwater systems
Sediment management needs to be integrated into river basin management planning
Important to incorporate knowledge and expertise from existing international and regional conventions into the WFD
Way forward
Circulate report from recent SedNet workshop
Prepare proposal for future sediment management activity also taking into account daughter Directive

3. WFD-compliant hydromorphological change
Key conclusions
Much relevant good practice already available
Recognise/accommodate uncertainties
Differentiate between ‘current’ and ‘legacy’ modifications
Aim to identify ‘win-win’ or ‘no regrets’ solutions
Need to ‘WFD-proof’ proposed new modifications
Ensure consistency of approach
Way forward
Continue to identify/exchange good practice
Proposed workshop on HMWB designation process

4. WFD relationship with EU maritime policy
Key conclusions
Significant marine areas included within WFD area

5. For those people in the audience that are not familiar with PIANC, I will start with a short overview of who we are and what we do.
The core business of PIANC is and stays the publication of high quality technical reports that provide guidance worldwide about new developments in navigation related subjects.
These reports are drafted by international working groups of experts that on a non paid basis contribute to this work. Japan manages to be represented in many of these working groups for which we are grateful.

7. WFD relationship with EU maritime policy
Key conclusions
Significant marine areas included within WFD area
Recognise dynamic nature of marine environment
Realistic indicators; cost-effective monitoring
Issues of jurisdiction; competence; role of international conventions
Way forward
Raise issues with DG fisheries and maritime affairs
Clarity about role of WFD in maritime policy; build flexibility into Marine Strategy Directive
Strive to achieve practical and consistent, truly integrated approach to management of marine areas