The purpose of this report is to explain how the integrity of freshwater ecosystems
depends upon adequate quantity, quality, timing, and temporal variability of water flow.
Defining these requirements in a comprehensive but general manner provides a better
foundation for their inclusion in current and future debates about allocation of water resources.
In this way the needs of freshwater ecosystems can be legitimately recognized and
addressed. We also recommend ways in which freshwater ecosystems can be protected,
maintained, and restored.