The DWS River EcoClassification system provides a standardised framework for determining the Present Ecological State (PES) and Ecological Importance & Sensitivity (EIS) of river ecosystems in South Africa. The full EcoClassification framework integrates driver assessments (hydrology modification, geomorphology condition, water quality, and physico-chemical habitat) with biological response assessments using three indices: FRAI (Fish Response Assessment Index), MIRAI (Macro-Invertebrate Response Assessment Index), and VEGRAI (Vegetation Response Assessment Index). Rivers are classified into Ecological Categories from A (natural/unmodified) through F (critically modified). The EcoStatus integrates all driver and response metrics into a single classification. This framework underpins the Water Resource Classification System under the National Water Act and directly supports Resource Quality Objectives determination. Developed through the River Health Programme (now River EcoStatus Monitoring Programme).