# The Surface Waters (Fishlife) (Classification) Regulations 1997, Note: Explanatory note


(This note is not part of the Regulations)
These Regulations prescribe a system for classifying the quality of inland freshwaters which need protection or improvement in order to support fish life.
The classifications SW (“salmonid waters”) and CW (“cyprinid waters”) reflect the mandatory values assigned by Directive 78/659/EEC (on the quality of fresh waters needing protection or improvement in order to support fish life) to the parameters listed in the Schedule to these Regulations.
The Regulations also incorporate the reference methods of measurement, and the minimum frequency required for sampling and analysis, laid down in that Directive for those parameters.
The Regulations, together with the Surface Waters (Fishlife) Directions 1997, transpose Directive 78/659/EEC in relation to England and Wales. Copies of the Surface Waters (Fishlife) Directions 1997 may be obtained from:
Water Quality Division
Department of the Environment,
Romney House,
43 Marsham Street,
London SW1P 3PY.
Environment Division,
Welsh Office,
Cathays Park,
Cardiff CF1 3NQ.

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Source: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1997/1331/note (the official version)
Page: https://openlegislation.uk/surface-waters-fishlife-classification-regulations-1997/note
Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Source: legislation.gov.uk, The National Archives.