More than half of the world’s river network is affected by the cessation of flow or the complete drying up of riverbeds. In mainland France, the latest models of the theoretical hydrological network suggest that 20 to 40% of the total length of rivers is intermittent. Essential to the proper functioning of river systems—groundwater recharge, sediment transport, and connectivity between aquatic habitats—intermittent streams serve as important indicators of the effects of climate change on aquatic ecosystems. However, subject to misconceptions and on the fringes of aquatic and terrestrial sciences, they have so far been marginalized in research and by public policy, particularly in the European Water Framework Directive (2000), which is lacking in provisions for the monitoring, assessment, and management of this type of watercourse. Compounding this is the lack of suitable methods, which further complicates their scientific and regulatory monitoring. Given their increasing prevalence amid profound changes in the water cycle, however, addressing them has become urgent. This guide provides a synthesis of current knowledge on the intermittency of watercourses, as well as concrete tools—ranging from hydrological monitoring to the characterization of ecological status, including restoration efforts—to integrate them into management strategies and practices. It is intended for professionals, managers, and decision-makers in the hydrological sector, as well as students and researchers in the field who wish to update their knowledge on this long-unexplored topic.

This book is included in DOAB.