Historical data for each primary site were complied from a number of sources in each country. The secondary historical data comprised cartographic maps, aerial photographs, relevant scientific publications, hydroclimatological data (including precipitation, temperature, wind speed and direction, inflowing river flow and pumping station records, tidal elevation), historical water chemistry, vegetation and fish surveys. All data collected in this way were incorporated within a GIS (within ArcView 3.2) and time series data base developed for each primary site. These data bases formed the basis for storing additional primary data collected as part Melmarina field activities and were used for visualising spatial data and preparing data for inclusion within the modelling and remote sensing work.