WRP stands for "Whole-River Planning," and it is a term used in the field of river management and conservation. WRP is an approach that focuses on managing rivers in a holistic and comprehensive manner, taking into consideration the entire river system and its associated ecosystems, rather than treating them as separate entities. It seeks to assess and address the various ecological, hydrological, and social aspects of rivers to ensure their sustainable management.
In WRP, the emphasis is on understanding the interconnections between different components of a river system, including its upstream and downstream areas, tributaries, floodplains, and associated ecosystems. It recognizes that rivers are complex and dynamic systems, where actions taken in one part may have implications for other parts. WRP aims to integrate scientific knowledge, stakeholder input, and management strategies to maintain or restore the ecological integrity, natural functions, and services of the river system.
The process of WRP typically involves conducting comprehensive assessments of the river basin, including water quality, flow regimes, aquatic and terrestrial habitats, biodiversity, and socio-economic aspects. Based on these assessments, management plans and strategies are developed that focus on maintaining or enhancing river health, preserving biodiversity, mitigating the impacts of climate change, and promoting sustainable water use.
WRP is often employed by river managers, scientists, and policymakers to guide decision-making and prioritize actions for effective river conservation and restoration. By considering the whole river system as a unit, WRP aims to achieve a balance between ecological conservation, societal needs, and sustainable utilization of river resources.
