The Blue Network Programme

This programme aims to have an integrated, durable and ecologically justified management of open waterways in Brussels. The "blue network" is made up of small rivers, ponds and marshes. It is dedicated to the enhancement of natural values and biodiversity while maintaining the access of the public to the areas concerned. The physico-chemical and ecological quality of some rivers and ponds have been monitored for many years. The evaluation - carried out according to strict criteria established at European level - shows that between 2004 and 2010, the overall environmental quality of the Seine, the Canal and la Woluwe has remained relatively stable (poor to good depending on the course water). However progress has been recognized for some bio-indicators at the Woluwe and Senne. Moreover, the last assessment conducted states that ponds located at the Woluwe valley have ecological quality moderate to high (reaching the "good ecological potential"). The improvement in the quality of these ponds can be related with the positive effects of the implementation of the program "Blue Network" (see in particular the "Report on the environmental impacts of the proposed program of accompanying measures management plan for the water of the Brussels-Capital "). A Plan for water management adopted by the BCR in 2012 is in line with this programme.