ICMeasy 1.2 Intercalibration common metrics and index easy calculation

Instructions on the use of a new software, named ICMeasy, are provided for the purpose of correctly calculating Intercalibration Common Metrics (ICMs) and Indices (ICMi) for European rivers based on aquatic invertebrate information. All the Geographical Intercalibration Groups (GIGs) defined for the Water Framework Directive Intercalibration process are considered. Starting from a txt input file, the software is able to calculate ICMs and ICMi based on: invertebrate families found at a site; a quality classification of the samples (at least for those in High status or collected from Reference sites). The software always calculates a standard set of IC metrics (STAR_ICMs) and the derivative index (STAR_ICMi). In combination with STAR_ICMs and index, in formal use in the Central/Baltic, Mediterranean and Nordic GIGs, an additional set of metrics and index can be calculated according to the GIG area that samples were collected in. Mediterranean, Alpine and Eastern/Continental sets of IC metrics and IC indices, as they were finally defined for the formal IC process, can also be calculated. In addition, the software accepts data for pressures, National methods or environmental variables for direct comparison with IC indices, via linear regression analysis. In the output file, single metrics and indices values are provided, together with summary information on data used and regression analysis. All the information needed to make calculations and use ICMeasy is supplied.