RESTORE - User contributions [en]

File:Vivillo meander before project.webp

2025-12-19T11:49:27Z

Ecopatrimonio:

File:Governance-participation-actions-03.jpg

2025-12-19T11:45:50Z

Ecopatrimonio: Governance-participation-actions-03.jpg

Governance-participation-actions-03.jpg

Case study:RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)

2025-12-19T11:40:55Z

Ecopatrimonio:

{{Project overview
|Status=In progress
|Themes=Environmental flows and water resources, Flood risk management, Habitat and biodiversity, Hydromorphology, Land use management - agriculture, Land use management - forestry, Social benefits, Spatial planning, Urban, Water quality
|Country=Spain
|Main contact forename=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact surname=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact id=Ecopatrimonio
|Contact organisation=Concejalía de Planificación Urbanística, Huertas y Medio Rural, Ayuntamiento de Murcia
|Contact organisation url=https://medioambiente.murcia.es/
|Multi-site=No
|Project summary=The project is part of a joint strategy developed since 2017 by the City Council of Murcia and the Universities of Murcia and Cartagena (UPCT) aimed at the environmental restoration of the Segura River and its former meanders in the western area of the municipality. This global strategy, completed in 2019, defines 26 types of environmental and territorial actions applied to 27 specific river sections, focusing on riverbed restoration, riparian revegetation, agroecological recovery of the huerta, flood risk management, improvement of paths and connectivity, enhancement of hydraulic heritage, and environmental education.

The areas of intervention are classified according to their morphology (large meanders, medium meanders, small bends, fluvial terraces, and connecting areas). Four of these were prioritized due to their social, environmental, and administrative relevance, including the Meandro Chico del Vivillo. These areas allow improvements in the river’s longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity, the recovery of biodiversity, the reduction of flood risk, and the creation of new green spaces close to densely populated urban areas.

The Vivillo Meander project was developed as a preliminary design and received European funding through the Biodiversity Foundation within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan. Its objective is to reverse the negative impacts of river channelization carried out since the 1970s, which straightened the river, eliminated meanders, and disconnected it from its floodplain, leading to a loss of fluvial dynamics and biodiversity.

The proposal is based on contemporary river restoration principles that promote the recovery of natural river geomorphology, reconnection with the floodplain, enhancement of riparian forests, and the creation of diverse habitats, demonstrating that nature-based solutions are more effective and sustainable than traditional channelization approaches for flood management.
|Monitoring surveys and results=1. Strategic and Planning Results
• A global environmental restoration strategy was defined for the Segura River in the western area of the municipality of Murcia, structured into:
o 26 types of actions (9 general actions applicable to the entire proposal and 17 specific actions for defined areas).
o 27 specific intervention areas between La Contraparada and the city of Murcia.
• Four priority preliminary design projects were developed: Rambla de la Ventosa, Meandro Chico del Vivillo, Meandro del Molino de la Rosquilla, and Meandro del Molino de Funes.
2. Administrative and Funding Results
• The Fluvial Restoration Project of the former Segura River channel at the Vivillo Meander was:
o Submitted to the Fundación Biodiversidad grant call (NextGenerationEU).
o Awarded funding of €1,670,158.9 in September 2022.
• The preliminary design was reviewed by the Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura (CHS), which issued technical considerations in June 2023.
• The drafting of the project was commissioned to Urbanizadora Municipal S.A. (URBAMUSA), with technical assistance provided by the Polytechnic University of Cartagena.
3. Environmental Diagnostic Results
• The channelization works carried out between the 1970s and 1990s:
o Caused a loss of the river’s natural alignment, riverbed, and riparian zones.
o Led to a disconnection between the active channel and the floodplain.
o Resulted in 20 abandoned meanders within the Region of Murcia.
• The current river reach is characterized by:
o A homogeneous and rectilinear morphology.
o Widespread invasion by Arundo donax (giant reed).
o The absence of a functional riparian forest.
4. Fluvial Connectivity Results
• A significant deterioration of fluvial connectivity was identified:
o Longitudinal connectivity: lack of continuous riparian vegetation.
o Lateral connectivity: disconnection between the river channel and the floodplain.
o Vertical connectivity: alteration of subsurface and groundwater flows.
• The recovery of abandoned meanders would:
o Increase habitat diversity.
o Enhance the ecological resilience of the fluvial system.
5. Hydraulic Analysis and Flood Risk Results
• According to the Flood Hazard and Risk Maps (MPRI):
o No significant flood risk exists for return periods of 10 and 50 years.
o The entire intervention area is flood-prone for return periods of 100 and 500 years.
• The project area is included within a Preferential Flow Zone (PFZ).
• A hydraulic study using HEC-RAS was conducted, comparing scenarios:
o Without implementation of the meander restoration.
o With implementation of the meander restoration.
• The results confirm that the proposed intervention:
o Does not increase flood risk upstream or downstream.
o Improves flood attenuation capacity during extreme events.
6. Urban Planning and Legal Compliance Results
• The intervention area is fully compatible with the Plan General de Organización Urbanística (PGOU):
o Classified as a Hydraulic General System and Green/Open Space System.
• The project:
o Is entirely located within the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Complies with the Spanish Water Law and the Regulations of the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Meets fluvial restoration and ecological continuity criteria.
7. Overall Project Outcome
• The proposal:
o Restores a more natural fluvial morphology.
o Enhances ecological connectivity.
o Reduces flood risk through nature-based solutions.
o Demonstrates technical, environmental, urban planning, and legal feasibility.
|Lessons learn=1. The historical channelization of the Segura River, mainly carried out between the 1970s and 1990s, reduced immediate flood risk but resulted in a significant loss of natural fluvial dynamics, ecological connectivity, and floodplain functionality.
2. The disconnection between the current river channel and the abandoned meanders has led to marked environmental degradation, characterized by morphological homogenization, the disappearance of riparian forests, and the spread of invasive species such as Arundo donax.
3. The Meandro Chico del Vivillo area shows a high potential for fluvial restoration, as it is a former river bend located within the Public Hydraulic Domain, with minimal impact on private land and full urban planning compatibility.
4. The recovery of the former meander through channel widening and riparian revegetation will significantly improve longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity of the fluvial system, increasing habitat diversity and enhancing the ecological resilience of the Segura River.
5. The hydraulic studies conducted demonstrate that the proposed intervention does not increase flood risk for the analyzed return periods and contributes to improved flood attenuation during extreme flood events.
6. The intervention complies with current water, land-use planning, and flood risk management regulations, and is aligned with fluvial restoration principles and nature-based solutions.
7. The project represents a strategic and replicable action for the environmental recovery of the Segura River fluvial corridor, providing environmental, social, and landscape benefits, and strengthening institutional cooperation between public administrations and universities.
|Project title=RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)
}}
{{Project background
|Project started=2025-05-09
|Works started=2025-10-25
|Total cost category=more than 10000 k€
|Total1 cost=1426.461552
|Funding sources=Recovery Transformation and Resilience Plan, Fundación Biodiversidad
}}

{{Case study status
|Approval status=Draft
}}
{{Location
|Location=37.98043, -1.17378
}}

{{Image gallery}}
{{Image gallery end}}
{{Toggle button}}
{{Toggle content start}}
{{Case study subcatchment}}
{{Site
|Name=Meandro Chico del Vivillo
|WFD water body code=ES070MSPF
|WFD (national) typology=ES070MSPF002080115
|WFD water body name=Segura River
|Pre-project morphology=Artificial channel, Low gradient passively meandering
|Reference morphology=Low gradient passively meandering
|Desired post project morphology=Low gradient passively meandering, Reinforced banks
|Heavily modified water body=Yes
|Site designation=Spain - Parque Periurbano
|Local site designation=Metropolitan Green Belt, Habitats of Community Interest
|Protected species present=Yes
|Invasive species present=Yes
|Species=Arundo donax, Populus alba, Phoenix dactilyfera
|Dominant hydrology=Artificially regulated
|Dominant substrate=Pebble, Silt
|River corridor land use=Orchard, Urban
|Average bankfull channel width category=5 - 10 m
|Avrg bankfull channel width=12.10
|Average bankfull channel depth category=0.5 - 2 m
|Avrg1 bankfull channel depth=1
|Mean discharge category=0.1 - 1.0 m³/s
|Mn discharge=0.3
|Average channel gradient category=Less than 0.001
|Avrg channel gradient=0.0007
}}

{{Motivations
|Specific mitigation=Invasive species, Riparian development
|Hydromorphological quality elements=Flow velocities, Fluvial conectivity, Flood attenuation capacity
|Biological quality elements=Angiosperms, Macrophytes, Macrophytes and/or phytobenthos: Average abundance, Riparian habitat
|Other motivation=Historical channels, Hydraulic heritage of the river reach
}}
{{Measures
|Bank and bed modifications measure=Right bank maintains the existing levee, Left bank turns with the old meander, Current levee elevation is mantained
|Floodplain / River corridor=Habitat restoration, Planting of autochthonous vegetation
|Planform / Channel pattern=Modification of existing defenses, restoration of the old meander
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality elements header}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Freshwater flow regime
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Quantity & dynamics of flow
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Width & depth variation
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Continuity of sediment transport
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Biological quality elements header}}
{{Biological quality element table row
|Element=Macrophytes
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=Yes
}}
{{Biological quality element table row
|Element=Invertebrates: Abundance
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Biological quality element table row
|Element=Angiosperms
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=No
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Physico-chemical quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Other responses header}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Reed
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Flood risk management
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Erosion
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Riparian tree establishment
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Birds
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Mammel survey
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=No
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=European otter
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=dragonflies
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Monitoring documents}}
{{Monitoring documents end}}
{{Additional Documents}}
{{Additional Documents end}}
{{Additional links and references header}}
{{Additional links and references footer}}
{{Supplementary Information}}
{{Toggle content end}}

File:Governance-participation-actions-01.jpg

2025-12-19T11:36:59Z

Ecopatrimonio:

File:Logotipovivillovertical.png

2025-12-19T11:31:27Z

Ecopatrimonio:

Case study:RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)

2025-12-19T11:29:12Z

Ecopatrimonio:

{{Project overview
|Status=In progress
|Themes=Environmental flows and water resources, Flood risk management, Habitat and biodiversity, Hydromorphology, Land use management - agriculture, Land use management - forestry, Social benefits, Spatial planning, Urban, Water quality
|Country=Spain
|Main contact forename=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact surname=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact id=Ecopatrimonio
|Contact organisation=Cocejalía de Planificación Urbanística, Huertas y Medio Rural, Ayuntamiento de Murcia
|Contact organisation url=https://medioambiente.murcia.es/
|Multi-site=No
|Project summary=The project is part of a joint strategy developed since 2017 by the City Council of Murcia and the Universities of Murcia and Cartagena (UPCT) aimed at the environmental restoration of the Segura River and its former meanders in the western area of the municipality. This global strategy, completed in 2019, defines 26 types of environmental and territorial actions applied to 27 specific river sections, focusing on riverbed restoration, riparian revegetation, agroecological recovery of the huerta, flood risk management, improvement of paths and connectivity, enhancement of hydraulic heritage, and environmental education.

The areas of intervention are classified according to their morphology (large meanders, medium meanders, small bends, fluvial terraces, and connecting areas). Four of these were prioritized due to their social, environmental, and administrative relevance, including the Meandro Chico del Vivillo. These areas allow improvements in the river’s longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity, the recovery of biodiversity, the reduction of flood risk, and the creation of new green spaces close to densely populated urban areas.

The Vivillo Meander project was developed as a preliminary design and received European funding through the Biodiversity Foundation within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan. Its objective is to reverse the negative impacts of river channelization carried out since the 1970s, which straightened the river, eliminated meanders, and disconnected it from its floodplain, leading to a loss of fluvial dynamics and biodiversity.

The proposal is based on contemporary river restoration principles that promote the recovery of natural river geomorphology, reconnection with the floodplain, enhancement of riparian forests, and the creation of diverse habitats, demonstrating that nature-based solutions are more effective and sustainable than traditional channelization approaches for flood management.
|Monitoring surveys and results=1. Strategic and Planning Results
• A global environmental restoration strategy was defined for the Segura River in the western area of the municipality of Murcia, structured into:
o 26 types of actions (9 general actions applicable to the entire proposal and 17 specific actions for defined areas).
o 27 specific intervention areas between La Contraparada and the city of Murcia.
• Four priority preliminary design projects were developed: Rambla de la Ventosa, Meandro Chico del Vivillo, Meandro del Molino de la Rosquilla, and Meandro del Molino de Funes.
2. Administrative and Funding Results
• The Fluvial Restoration Project of the former Segura River channel at the Vivillo Meander was:
o Submitted to the Fundación Biodiversidad grant call (NextGenerationEU).
o Awarded funding of €1,670,158.9 in September 2022.
• The preliminary design was reviewed by the Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura (CHS), which issued technical considerations in June 2023.
• The drafting of the project was commissioned to Urbanizadora Municipal S.A. (URBAMUSA), with technical assistance provided by the Polytechnic University of Cartagena.
3. Environmental Diagnostic Results
• The channelization works carried out between the 1970s and 1990s:
o Caused a loss of the river’s natural alignment, riverbed, and riparian zones.
o Led to a disconnection between the active channel and the floodplain.
o Resulted in 20 abandoned meanders within the Region of Murcia.
• The current river reach is characterized by:
o A homogeneous and rectilinear morphology.
o Widespread invasion by Arundo donax (giant reed).
o The absence of a functional riparian forest.
4. Fluvial Connectivity Results
• A significant deterioration of fluvial connectivity was identified:
o Longitudinal connectivity: lack of continuous riparian vegetation.
o Lateral connectivity: disconnection between the river channel and the floodplain.
o Vertical connectivity: alteration of subsurface and groundwater flows.
• The recovery of abandoned meanders would:
o Increase habitat diversity.
o Enhance the ecological resilience of the fluvial system.
5. Hydraulic Analysis and Flood Risk Results
• According to the Flood Hazard and Risk Maps (MPRI):
o No significant flood risk exists for return periods of 10 and 50 years.
o The entire intervention area is flood-prone for return periods of 100 and 500 years.
• The project area is included within a Preferential Flow Zone (PFZ).
• A hydraulic study using HEC-RAS was conducted, comparing scenarios:
o Without implementation of the meander restoration.
o With implementation of the meander restoration.
• The results confirm that the proposed intervention:
o Does not increase flood risk upstream or downstream.
o Improves flood attenuation capacity during extreme events.
6. Urban Planning and Legal Compliance Results
• The intervention area is fully compatible with the Plan General de Organización Urbanística (PGOU):
o Classified as a Hydraulic General System and Green/Open Space System.
• The project:
o Is entirely located within the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Complies with the Spanish Water Law and the Regulations of the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Meets fluvial restoration and ecological continuity criteria.
7. Overall Project Outcome
• The proposal:
o Restores a more natural fluvial morphology.
o Enhances ecological connectivity.
o Reduces flood risk through nature-based solutions.
o Demonstrates technical, environmental, urban planning, and legal feasibility.
|Lessons learn=1. The historical channelization of the Segura River, mainly carried out between the 1970s and 1990s, reduced immediate flood risk but resulted in a significant loss of natural fluvial dynamics, ecological connectivity, and floodplain functionality.
2. The disconnection between the current river channel and the abandoned meanders has led to marked environmental degradation, characterized by morphological homogenization, the disappearance of riparian forests, and the spread of invasive species such as Arundo donax.
3. The Meandro Chico del Vivillo area shows a high potential for fluvial restoration, as it is a former river bend located within the Public Hydraulic Domain, with minimal impact on private land and full urban planning compatibility.
4. The recovery of the former meander through channel widening and riparian revegetation will significantly improve longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity of the fluvial system, increasing habitat diversity and enhancing the ecological resilience of the Segura River.
5. The hydraulic studies conducted demonstrate that the proposed intervention does not increase flood risk for the analyzed return periods and contributes to improved flood attenuation during extreme flood events.
6. The intervention complies with current water, land-use planning, and flood risk management regulations, and is aligned with fluvial restoration principles and nature-based solutions.
7. The project represents a strategic and replicable action for the environmental recovery of the Segura River fluvial corridor, providing environmental, social, and landscape benefits, and strengthening institutional cooperation between public administrations and universities.
|Project title=RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)
}}
{{Project background
|Project started=2025-05-09
|Works started=2025-10-25
|Total cost category=more than 10000 k€
|Total1 cost=1426.461552
|Funding sources=Recovery Transformation and Resilience Plan, Fundación Biodiversidad
}}

{{Case study status
|Approval status=Draft
}}
{{Location
|Location=37.98043, -1.17378
}}

{{Image gallery}}
{{Image gallery end}}
{{Toggle button}}
{{Toggle content start}}
{{Case study subcatchment}}
{{Site
|Name=Meandro Chico del Vivillo
|WFD water body code=ES070MSPF
|WFD (national) typology=ES070MSPF002080115
|WFD water body name=Segura River
|Pre-project morphology=Artificial channel, Low gradient passively meandering
|Reference morphology=Low gradient passively meandering
|Desired post project morphology=Low gradient passively meandering, Reinforced banks
|Heavily modified water body=Yes
|Site designation=Spain - Parque Periurbano
|Local site designation=Metropolitan Green Belt, Habitats of Community Interest
|Protected species present=Yes
|Invasive species present=Yes
|Species=Arundo donax, Populus alba, Phoenix dactilyfera
|Dominant hydrology=Artificially regulated
|Dominant substrate=Pebble, Silt
|River corridor land use=Orchard, Urban
|Average bankfull channel width category=5 - 10 m
|Avrg bankfull channel width=12.10
|Average bankfull channel depth category=0.5 - 2 m
|Avrg1 bankfull channel depth=1
|Mean discharge category=0.1 - 1.0 m³/s
|Mn discharge=0.3
|Average channel gradient category=Less than 0.001
|Avrg channel gradient=0.0007
}}

{{Motivations
|Specific mitigation=Invasive species, Riparian development
|Hydromorphological quality elements=Flow velocities, Fluvial conectivity, Flood attenuation capacity
|Biological quality elements=Angiosperms, Macrophytes, Macrophytes and/or phytobenthos: Average abundance, Riparian habitat
|Other motivation=Historical channels, Hydraulic heritage of the river reach
}}
{{Measures
|Bank and bed modifications measure=Right bank maintains the existing levee, Left bank turns with the old meander, Current levee elevation is mantained
|Floodplain / River corridor=Habitat restoration, Planting of autochthonous vegetation
|Planform / Channel pattern=Modification of existing defenses, restoration of the old meander
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality elements header}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Freshwater flow regime
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Quantity & dynamics of flow
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Width & depth variation
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Continuity of sediment transport
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Biological quality elements header}}
{{Biological quality element table row
|Element=Macrophytes
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=Yes
}}
{{Biological quality element table row
|Element=Invertebrates: Abundance
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Biological quality element table row
|Element=Angiosperms
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=No
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Physico-chemical quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Other responses header}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Reed
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Flood risk management
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Erosion
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Riparian tree establishment
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Birds
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Mammel survey
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=No
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=European otter
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=dragonflies
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Monitoring documents}}
{{Monitoring documents end}}
{{Additional Documents}}
{{Additional Documents end}}
{{Additional links and references header}}
{{Additional links and references footer}}
{{Supplementary Information}}
{{Toggle content end}}

Case study:RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)

2025-12-19T11:28:23Z

Ecopatrimonio:

{{Project background
|Project started=2025-05-09
|Works started=2025-10-25
|Total cost category=more than 10000 k€
|Total1 cost=1426.461552
|Funding sources=Recovery Transformation and Resilience Plan, Fundación Biodiversidad
}}
{{Project overview
|Status=In progress
|Themes=Environmental flows and water resources, Flood risk management, Habitat and biodiversity, Hydromorphology, Land use management - agriculture, Land use management - forestry, Social benefits, Spatial planning, Urban, Water quality
|Country=Spain
|Main contact forename=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact surname=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact id=Ecopatrimonio
|Contact organisation=Cocejalía de Planificación Urbanística, Huertas y Medio Rural, Ayuntamiento de Murcia
|Contact organisation url=https://ecopatrimonio.es/#next-carrousel
|Multi-site=No
|Project summary=The project is part of a joint strategy developed since 2017 by the City Council of Murcia and the Universities of Murcia and Cartagena (UPCT) aimed at the environmental restoration of the Segura River and its former meanders in the western area of the municipality. This global strategy, completed in 2019, defines 26 types of environmental and territorial actions applied to 27 specific river sections, focusing on riverbed restoration, riparian revegetation, agroecological recovery of the huerta, flood risk management, improvement of paths and connectivity, enhancement of hydraulic heritage, and environmental education.

The areas of intervention are classified according to their morphology (large meanders, medium meanders, small bends, fluvial terraces, and connecting areas). Four of these were prioritized due to their social, environmental, and administrative relevance, including the Meandro Chico del Vivillo. These areas allow improvements in the river’s longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity, the recovery of biodiversity, the reduction of flood risk, and the creation of new green spaces close to densely populated urban areas.

The Vivillo Meander project was developed as a preliminary design and received European funding through the Biodiversity Foundation within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan. Its objective is to reverse the negative impacts of river channelization carried out since the 1970s, which straightened the river, eliminated meanders, and disconnected it from its floodplain, leading to a loss of fluvial dynamics and biodiversity.

The proposal is based on contemporary river restoration principles that promote the recovery of natural river geomorphology, reconnection with the floodplain, enhancement of riparian forests, and the creation of diverse habitats, demonstrating that nature-based solutions are more effective and sustainable than traditional channelization approaches for flood management.
|Monitoring surveys and results=1. Strategic and Planning Results
• A global environmental restoration strategy was defined for the Segura River in the western area of the municipality of Murcia, structured into:
o 26 types of actions (9 general actions applicable to the entire proposal and 17 specific actions for defined areas).
o 27 specific intervention areas between La Contraparada and the city of Murcia.
• Four priority preliminary design projects were developed: Rambla de la Ventosa, Meandro Chico del Vivillo, Meandro del Molino de la Rosquilla, and Meandro del Molino de Funes.
2. Administrative and Funding Results
• The Fluvial Restoration Project of the former Segura River channel at the Vivillo Meander was:
o Submitted to the Fundación Biodiversidad grant call (NextGenerationEU).
o Awarded funding of €1,670,158.9 in September 2022.
• The preliminary design was reviewed by the Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura (CHS), which issued technical considerations in June 2023.
• The drafting of the project was commissioned to Urbanizadora Municipal S.A. (URBAMUSA), with technical assistance provided by the Polytechnic University of Cartagena.
3. Environmental Diagnostic Results
• The channelization works carried out between the 1970s and 1990s:
o Caused a loss of the river’s natural alignment, riverbed, and riparian zones.
o Led to a disconnection between the active channel and the floodplain.
o Resulted in 20 abandoned meanders within the Region of Murcia.
• The current river reach is characterized by:
o A homogeneous and rectilinear morphology.
o Widespread invasion by Arundo donax (giant reed).
o The absence of a functional riparian forest.
4. Fluvial Connectivity Results
• A significant deterioration of fluvial connectivity was identified:
o Longitudinal connectivity: lack of continuous riparian vegetation.
o Lateral connectivity: disconnection between the river channel and the floodplain.
o Vertical connectivity: alteration of subsurface and groundwater flows.
• The recovery of abandoned meanders would:
o Increase habitat diversity.
o Enhance the ecological resilience of the fluvial system.
5. Hydraulic Analysis and Flood Risk Results
• According to the Flood Hazard and Risk Maps (MPRI):
o No significant flood risk exists for return periods of 10 and 50 years.
o The entire intervention area is flood-prone for return periods of 100 and 500 years.
• The project area is included within a Preferential Flow Zone (PFZ).
• A hydraulic study using HEC-RAS was conducted, comparing scenarios:
o Without implementation of the meander restoration.
o With implementation of the meander restoration.
• The results confirm that the proposed intervention:
o Does not increase flood risk upstream or downstream.
o Improves flood attenuation capacity during extreme events.
6. Urban Planning and Legal Compliance Results
• The intervention area is fully compatible with the Plan General de Organización Urbanística (PGOU):
o Classified as a Hydraulic General System and Green/Open Space System.
• The project:
o Is entirely located within the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Complies with the Spanish Water Law and the Regulations of the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Meets fluvial restoration and ecological continuity criteria.
7. Overall Project Outcome
• The proposal:
o Restores a more natural fluvial morphology.
o Enhances ecological connectivity.
o Reduces flood risk through nature-based solutions.
o Demonstrates technical, environmental, urban planning, and legal feasibility.
|Lessons learn=1. The historical channelization of the Segura River, mainly carried out between the 1970s and 1990s, reduced immediate flood risk but resulted in a significant loss of natural fluvial dynamics, ecological connectivity, and floodplain functionality.
2. The disconnection between the current river channel and the abandoned meanders has led to marked environmental degradation, characterized by morphological homogenization, the disappearance of riparian forests, and the spread of invasive species such as Arundo donax.
3. The Meandro Chico del Vivillo area shows a high potential for fluvial restoration, as it is a former river bend located within the Public Hydraulic Domain, with minimal impact on private land and full urban planning compatibility.
4. The recovery of the former meander through channel widening and riparian revegetation will significantly improve longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity of the fluvial system, increasing habitat diversity and enhancing the ecological resilience of the Segura River.
5. The hydraulic studies conducted demonstrate that the proposed intervention does not increase flood risk for the analyzed return periods and contributes to improved flood attenuation during extreme flood events.
6. The intervention complies with current water, land-use planning, and flood risk management regulations, and is aligned with fluvial restoration principles and nature-based solutions.
7. The project represents a strategic and replicable action for the environmental recovery of the Segura River fluvial corridor, providing environmental, social, and landscape benefits, and strengthening institutional cooperation between public administrations and universities.
|Project title=RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)
}}
{{Case study status
|Approval status=Draft
}}
{{Location
|Location=37.98043, -1.17378
}}

{{Image gallery}}
{{Image gallery end}}
{{Toggle button}}
{{Toggle content start}}
{{Case study subcatchment}}
{{Site
|Name=Meandro Chico del Vivillo
|WFD water body code=ES070MSPF
|WFD (national) typology=ES070MSPF002080115
|WFD water body name=Segura River
|Pre-project morphology=Artificial channel, Low gradient passively meandering
|Reference morphology=Low gradient passively meandering
|Desired post project morphology=Low gradient passively meandering, Reinforced banks
|Heavily modified water body=Yes
|Site designation=Spain - Parque Periurbano
|Local site designation=Metropolitan Green Belt, Habitats of Community Interest
|Protected species present=Yes
|Invasive species present=Yes
|Species=Arundo donax, Populus alba, Phoenix dactilyfera
|Dominant hydrology=Artificially regulated
|Dominant substrate=Pebble, Silt
|River corridor land use=Orchard, Urban
|Average bankfull channel width category=5 - 10 m
|Avrg bankfull channel width=12.10
|Average bankfull channel depth category=0.5 - 2 m
|Avrg1 bankfull channel depth=1
|Mean discharge category=0.1 - 1.0 m³/s
|Mn discharge=0.3
|Average channel gradient category=Less than 0.001
|Avrg channel gradient=0.0007
}}

{{Motivations
|Specific mitigation=Invasive species, Riparian development
|Hydromorphological quality elements=Flow velocities, Fluvial conectivity, Flood attenuation capacity
|Biological quality elements=Angiosperms, Macrophytes, Macrophytes and/or phytobenthos: Average abundance, Riparian habitat
|Other motivation=Historical channels, Hydraulic heritage of the river reach
}}
{{Measures
|Bank and bed modifications measure=Right bank maintains the existing levee, Left bank turns with the old meander, Current levee elevation is mantained
|Floodplain / River corridor=Habitat restoration, Planting of autochthonous vegetation
|Planform / Channel pattern=Modification of existing defenses, restoration of the old meander
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality elements header}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Freshwater flow regime
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Quantity & dynamics of flow
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Width & depth variation
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Continuity of sediment transport
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Biological quality elements header}}
{{Biological quality element table row
|Element=Macrophytes
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=Yes
}}
{{Biological quality element table row
|Element=Invertebrates: Abundance
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Biological quality element table row
|Element=Angiosperms
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=No
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Physico-chemical quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Other responses header}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Reed
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Flood risk management
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Erosion
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Riparian tree establishment
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Birds
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Mammel survey
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=No
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=European otter
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=dragonflies
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Monitoring documents}}
{{Monitoring documents end}}
{{Additional Documents}}
{{Additional Documents end}}
{{Additional links and references header}}
{{Additional links and references footer}}
{{Supplementary Information}}
{{Toggle content end}}

Case study:RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)

2025-12-19T11:27:23Z

Ecopatrimonio:

{{Project overview
|Status=In progress
|Themes=Environmental flows and water resources, Flood risk management, Habitat and biodiversity, Hydromorphology, Land use management - agriculture, Land use management - forestry, Social benefits, Spatial planning, Urban, Water quality
|Country=Spain
|Main contact forename=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact surname=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact id=Ecopatrimonio
|Contact organisation=Cocejalía de Planificación Urbanística, Huertas y Medio Rural, Ayuntamiento de Murcia
|Contact organisation url=https://ecopatrimonio.es/#next-carrousel
|Multi-site=No
|Project summary=The project is part of a joint strategy developed since 2017 by the City Council of Murcia and the Universities of Murcia and Cartagena (UPCT) aimed at the environmental restoration of the Segura River and its former meanders in the western area of the municipality. This global strategy, completed in 2019, defines 26 types of environmental and territorial actions applied to 27 specific river sections, focusing on riverbed restoration, riparian revegetation, agroecological recovery of the huerta, flood risk management, improvement of paths and connectivity, enhancement of hydraulic heritage, and environmental education.

The areas of intervention are classified according to their morphology (large meanders, medium meanders, small bends, fluvial terraces, and connecting areas). Four of these were prioritized due to their social, environmental, and administrative relevance, including the Meandro Chico del Vivillo. These areas allow improvements in the river’s longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity, the recovery of biodiversity, the reduction of flood risk, and the creation of new green spaces close to densely populated urban areas.

The Vivillo Meander project was developed as a preliminary design and received European funding through the Biodiversity Foundation within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan. Its objective is to reverse the negative impacts of river channelization carried out since the 1970s, which straightened the river, eliminated meanders, and disconnected it from its floodplain, leading to a loss of fluvial dynamics and biodiversity.

The proposal is based on contemporary river restoration principles that promote the recovery of natural river geomorphology, reconnection with the floodplain, enhancement of riparian forests, and the creation of diverse habitats, demonstrating that nature-based solutions are more effective and sustainable than traditional channelization approaches for flood management.
|Monitoring surveys and results=1. Strategic and Planning Results
• A global environmental restoration strategy was defined for the Segura River in the western area of the municipality of Murcia, structured into:
o 26 types of actions (9 general actions applicable to the entire proposal and 17 specific actions for defined areas).
o 27 specific intervention areas between La Contraparada and the city of Murcia.
• Four priority preliminary design projects were developed: Rambla de la Ventosa, Meandro Chico del Vivillo, Meandro del Molino de la Rosquilla, and Meandro del Molino de Funes.
2. Administrative and Funding Results
• The Fluvial Restoration Project of the former Segura River channel at the Vivillo Meander was:
o Submitted to the Fundación Biodiversidad grant call (NextGenerationEU).
o Awarded funding of €1,670,158.9 in September 2022.
• The preliminary design was reviewed by the Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura (CHS), which issued technical considerations in June 2023.
• The drafting of the project was commissioned to Urbanizadora Municipal S.A. (URBAMUSA), with technical assistance provided by the Polytechnic University of Cartagena.
3. Environmental Diagnostic Results
• The channelization works carried out between the 1970s and 1990s:
o Caused a loss of the river’s natural alignment, riverbed, and riparian zones.
o Led to a disconnection between the active channel and the floodplain.
o Resulted in 20 abandoned meanders within the Region of Murcia.
• The current river reach is characterized by:
o A homogeneous and rectilinear morphology.
o Widespread invasion by Arundo donax (giant reed).
o The absence of a functional riparian forest.
4. Fluvial Connectivity Results
• A significant deterioration of fluvial connectivity was identified:
o Longitudinal connectivity: lack of continuous riparian vegetation.
o Lateral connectivity: disconnection between the river channel and the floodplain.
o Vertical connectivity: alteration of subsurface and groundwater flows.
• The recovery of abandoned meanders would:
o Increase habitat diversity.
o Enhance the ecological resilience of the fluvial system.
5. Hydraulic Analysis and Flood Risk Results
• According to the Flood Hazard and Risk Maps (MPRI):
o No significant flood risk exists for return periods of 10 and 50 years.
o The entire intervention area is flood-prone for return periods of 100 and 500 years.
• The project area is included within a Preferential Flow Zone (PFZ).
• A hydraulic study using HEC-RAS was conducted, comparing scenarios:
o Without implementation of the meander restoration.
o With implementation of the meander restoration.
• The results confirm that the proposed intervention:
o Does not increase flood risk upstream or downstream.
o Improves flood attenuation capacity during extreme events.
6. Urban Planning and Legal Compliance Results
• The intervention area is fully compatible with the Plan General de Organización Urbanística (PGOU):
o Classified as a Hydraulic General System and Green/Open Space System.
• The project:
o Is entirely located within the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Complies with the Spanish Water Law and the Regulations of the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Meets fluvial restoration and ecological continuity criteria.
7. Overall Project Outcome
• The proposal:
o Restores a more natural fluvial morphology.
o Enhances ecological connectivity.
o Reduces flood risk through nature-based solutions.
o Demonstrates technical, environmental, urban planning, and legal feasibility.
|Lessons learn=1. The historical channelization of the Segura River, mainly carried out between the 1970s and 1990s, reduced immediate flood risk but resulted in a significant loss of natural fluvial dynamics, ecological connectivity, and floodplain functionality.
2. The disconnection between the current river channel and the abandoned meanders has led to marked environmental degradation, characterized by morphological homogenization, the disappearance of riparian forests, and the spread of invasive species such as Arundo donax.
3. The Meandro Chico del Vivillo area shows a high potential for fluvial restoration, as it is a former river bend located within the Public Hydraulic Domain, with minimal impact on private land and full urban planning compatibility.
4. The recovery of the former meander through channel widening and riparian revegetation will significantly improve longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity of the fluvial system, increasing habitat diversity and enhancing the ecological resilience of the Segura River.
5. The hydraulic studies conducted demonstrate that the proposed intervention does not increase flood risk for the analyzed return periods and contributes to improved flood attenuation during extreme flood events.
6. The intervention complies with current water, land-use planning, and flood risk management regulations, and is aligned with fluvial restoration principles and nature-based solutions.
7. The project represents a strategic and replicable action for the environmental recovery of the Segura River fluvial corridor, providing environmental, social, and landscape benefits, and strengthening institutional cooperation between public administrations and universities.
|Project title=RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)
}}
{{Case study status
|Approval status=Draft
}}
{{Location
|Location=37.98043, -1.17378
}}

{{Image gallery}}
{{Image gallery end}}
{{Toggle button}}
{{Toggle content start}}
{{Case study subcatchment}}
{{Site
|Name=Meandro Chico del Vivillo
|WFD water body code=ES070MSPF
|WFD (national) typology=ES070MSPF002080115
|WFD water body name=Segura River
|Pre-project morphology=Artificial channel, Low gradient passively meandering
|Reference morphology=Low gradient passively meandering
|Desired post project morphology=Low gradient passively meandering, Reinforced banks
|Heavily modified water body=Yes
|Site designation=Spain - Parque Periurbano
|Local site designation=Metropolitan Green Belt, Habitats of Community Interest
|Protected species present=Yes
|Invasive species present=Yes
|Species=Arundo donax, Populus alba, Phoenix dactilyfera
|Dominant hydrology=Artificially regulated
|Dominant substrate=Pebble, Silt
|River corridor land use=Orchard, Urban
|Average bankfull channel width category=5 - 10 m
|Avrg bankfull channel width=12.10
|Average bankfull channel depth category=0.5 - 2 m
|Avrg1 bankfull channel depth=1
|Mean discharge category=0.1 - 1.0 m³/s
|Mn discharge=0.3
|Average channel gradient category=Less than 0.001
|Avrg channel gradient=0.0007
}}
{{Project background
|Project started=2025-05-09
|Works started=2025-10-25
|Total cost category=more than 10000 k€
|Total1 cost=1426.461552
|Funding sources=Recovery Transformation and Resilience Plan
}}
{{Motivations
|Specific mitigation=Invasive species, Riparian development
|Hydromorphological quality elements=Flow velocities, Fluvial conectivity, Flood attenuation capacity
|Biological quality elements=Angiosperms, Macrophytes, Macrophytes and/or phytobenthos: Average abundance, Riparian habitat
|Other motivation=Historical channels, Hydraulic heritage of the river reach
}}
{{Measures
|Bank and bed modifications measure=Right bank maintains the existing levee, Left bank turns with the old meander, Current levee elevation is mantained
|Floodplain / River corridor=Habitat restoration, Planting of autochthonous vegetation
|Planform / Channel pattern=Modification of existing defenses, restoration of the old meander
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality elements header}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Freshwater flow regime
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Quantity & dynamics of flow
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Width & depth variation
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Continuity of sediment transport
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Biological quality elements header}}
{{Biological quality element table row
|Element=Macrophytes
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=Yes
}}
{{Biological quality element table row
|Element=Invertebrates: Abundance
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Biological quality element table row
|Element=Angiosperms
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=No
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Physico-chemical quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Other responses header}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Reed
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Flood risk management
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Erosion
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Riparian tree establishment
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Birds
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Mammel survey
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=No
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=European otter
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=dragonflies
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Monitoring documents}}
{{Monitoring documents end}}
{{Additional Documents}}
{{Additional Documents end}}
{{Additional links and references header}}
{{Additional links and references footer}}
{{Supplementary Information}}
{{Toggle content end}}

Case study:RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)

2025-12-19T11:20:35Z

Ecopatrimonio:

{{Project overview
|Status=In progress
|Themes=Environmental flows and water resources, Flood risk management, Habitat and biodiversity, Hydromorphology, Land use management - agriculture, Land use management - forestry, Social benefits, Spatial planning, Urban, Water quality
|Country=Spain
|Main contact forename=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact surname=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact id=Ecopatrimonio
|Contact organisation=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Contact organisation url=https://ecopatrimonio.es/#next-carrousel
|Multi-site=No
|Project summary=The project is part of a joint strategy developed since 2017 by the City Council of Murcia and the Universities of Murcia and Cartagena (UPCT) aimed at the environmental restoration of the Segura River and its former meanders in the western area of the municipality. This global strategy, completed in 2019, defines 26 types of environmental and territorial actions applied to 27 specific river sections, focusing on riverbed restoration, riparian revegetation, agroecological recovery of the huerta, flood risk management, improvement of paths and connectivity, enhancement of hydraulic heritage, and environmental education.

The areas of intervention are classified according to their morphology (large meanders, medium meanders, small bends, fluvial terraces, and connecting areas). Four of these were prioritized due to their social, environmental, and administrative relevance, including the Meandro Chico del Vivillo. These areas allow improvements in the river’s longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity, the recovery of biodiversity, the reduction of flood risk, and the creation of new green spaces close to densely populated urban areas.

The Vivillo Meander project was developed as a preliminary design and received European funding through the Biodiversity Foundation within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan. Its objective is to reverse the negative impacts of river channelization carried out since the 1970s, which straightened the river, eliminated meanders, and disconnected it from its floodplain, leading to a loss of fluvial dynamics and biodiversity.

The proposal is based on contemporary river restoration principles that promote the recovery of natural river geomorphology, reconnection with the floodplain, enhancement of riparian forests, and the creation of diverse habitats, demonstrating that nature-based solutions are more effective and sustainable than traditional channelization approaches for flood management.
|Monitoring surveys and results=1. Strategic and Planning Results
• A global environmental restoration strategy was defined for the Segura River in the western area of the municipality of Murcia, structured into:
o 26 types of actions (9 general actions applicable to the entire proposal and 17 specific actions for defined areas).
o 27 specific intervention areas between La Contraparada and the city of Murcia.
• Four priority preliminary design projects were developed: Rambla de la Ventosa, Meandro Chico del Vivillo, Meandro del Molino de la Rosquilla, and Meandro del Molino de Funes.
2. Administrative and Funding Results
• The Fluvial Restoration Project of the former Segura River channel at the Vivillo Meander was:
o Submitted to the Fundación Biodiversidad grant call (NextGenerationEU).
o Awarded funding of €1,670,158.9 in September 2022.
• The preliminary design was reviewed by the Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura (CHS), which issued technical considerations in June 2023.
• The drafting of the project was commissioned to Urbanizadora Municipal S.A. (URBAMUSA), with technical assistance provided by the Polytechnic University of Cartagena.
3. Environmental Diagnostic Results
• The channelization works carried out between the 1970s and 1990s:
o Caused a loss of the river’s natural alignment, riverbed, and riparian zones.
o Led to a disconnection between the active channel and the floodplain.
o Resulted in 20 abandoned meanders within the Region of Murcia.
• The current river reach is characterized by:
o A homogeneous and rectilinear morphology.
o Widespread invasion by Arundo donax (giant reed).
o The absence of a functional riparian forest.
4. Fluvial Connectivity Results
• A significant deterioration of fluvial connectivity was identified:
o Longitudinal connectivity: lack of continuous riparian vegetation.
o Lateral connectivity: disconnection between the river channel and the floodplain.
o Vertical connectivity: alteration of subsurface and groundwater flows.
• The recovery of abandoned meanders would:
o Increase habitat diversity.
o Enhance the ecological resilience of the fluvial system.
5. Hydraulic Analysis and Flood Risk Results
• According to the Flood Hazard and Risk Maps (MPRI):
o No significant flood risk exists for return periods of 10 and 50 years.
o The entire intervention area is flood-prone for return periods of 100 and 500 years.
• The project area is included within a Preferential Flow Zone (PFZ).
• A hydraulic study using HEC-RAS was conducted, comparing scenarios:
o Without implementation of the meander restoration.
o With implementation of the meander restoration.
• The results confirm that the proposed intervention:
o Does not increase flood risk upstream or downstream.
o Improves flood attenuation capacity during extreme events.
6. Urban Planning and Legal Compliance Results
• The intervention area is fully compatible with the Plan General de Organización Urbanística (PGOU):
o Classified as a Hydraulic General System and Green/Open Space System.
• The project:
o Is entirely located within the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Complies with the Spanish Water Law and the Regulations of the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Meets fluvial restoration and ecological continuity criteria.
7. Overall Project Outcome
• The proposal:
o Restores a more natural fluvial morphology.
o Enhances ecological connectivity.
o Reduces flood risk through nature-based solutions.
o Demonstrates technical, environmental, urban planning, and legal feasibility.
|Lessons learn=1. The historical channelization of the Segura River, mainly carried out between the 1970s and 1990s, reduced immediate flood risk but resulted in a significant loss of natural fluvial dynamics, ecological connectivity, and floodplain functionality.
2. The disconnection between the current river channel and the abandoned meanders has led to marked environmental degradation, characterized by morphological homogenization, the disappearance of riparian forests, and the spread of invasive species such as Arundo donax.
3. The Meandro Chico del Vivillo area shows a high potential for fluvial restoration, as it is a former river bend located within the Public Hydraulic Domain, with minimal impact on private land and full urban planning compatibility.
4. The recovery of the former meander through channel widening and riparian revegetation will significantly improve longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity of the fluvial system, increasing habitat diversity and enhancing the ecological resilience of the Segura River.
5. The hydraulic studies conducted demonstrate that the proposed intervention does not increase flood risk for the analyzed return periods and contributes to improved flood attenuation during extreme flood events.
6. The intervention complies with current water, land-use planning, and flood risk management regulations, and is aligned with fluvial restoration principles and nature-based solutions.
7. The project represents a strategic and replicable action for the environmental recovery of the Segura River fluvial corridor, providing environmental, social, and landscape benefits, and strengthening institutional cooperation between public administrations and universities.
|Project title=RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)
}}
{{Case study status
|Approval status=Draft
}}
{{Location
|Location=37.98043, -1.17378
}}

{{Image gallery}}
{{Image gallery end}}
{{Toggle button}}
{{Toggle content start}}
{{Case study subcatchment}}
{{Site
|Name=Meandro Chico del Vivillo
|WFD water body code=ES070MSPF
|WFD (national) typology=ES070MSPF002080115
|WFD water body name=Segura River
|Pre-project morphology=Artificial channel, Low gradient passively meandering
|Reference morphology=Low gradient passively meandering
|Desired post project morphology=Low gradient passively meandering, Reinforced banks
|Heavily modified water body=Yes
|Site designation=Spain - Parque Periurbano
|Local site designation=Metropolitan Green Belt, Habitats of Community Interest
|Protected species present=Yes
|Invasive species present=Yes
|Species=Arundo donax, Populus alba, Phoenix dactilyfera
|Dominant hydrology=Artificially regulated
|Dominant substrate=Pebble, Silt
|River corridor land use=Orchard, Urban
|Average bankfull channel width category=5 - 10 m
|Avrg bankfull channel width=12.10
|Average bankfull channel depth category=0.5 - 2 m
|Avrg1 bankfull channel depth=1
|Mean discharge category=0.1 - 1.0 m³/s
|Mn discharge=0.3
|Average channel gradient category=Less than 0.001
|Avrg channel gradient=0.0007
}}
{{Project background
|Project started=2025-05-09
|Works started=2025-10-25
|Total cost category=more than 10000 k€
|Total1 cost=1426.461552
|Funding sources=Recovery Transformation and Resilience Plan
}}
{{Motivations
|Specific mitigation=Invasive species, Riparian development
|Hydromorphological quality elements=Flow velocities, Fluvial conectivity, Flood attenuation capacity
|Biological quality elements=Angiosperms, Macrophytes, Macrophytes and/or phytobenthos: Average abundance, Riparian habitat
|Other motivation=Historical channels, Hydraulic heritage of the river reach
}}
{{Measures
|Bank and bed modifications measure=Right bank maintains the existing levee, Left bank turns with the old meander, Current levee elevation is mantained
|Floodplain / River corridor=Habitat restoration, Planting of autochthonous vegetation
|Planform / Channel pattern=Modification of existing defenses, restoration of the old meander
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality elements header}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Freshwater flow regime
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Quantity & dynamics of flow
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Width & depth variation
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Continuity of sediment transport
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Biological quality elements header}}
{{Biological quality element table row
|Element=Macrophytes
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=Yes
}}
{{Biological quality element table row
|Element=Invertebrates: Abundance
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Biological quality element table row
|Element=Angiosperms
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=No
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Physico-chemical quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Other responses header}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Reed
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Flood risk management
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Erosion
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Riparian tree establishment
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Birds
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Mammel survey
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=No
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=European otter
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=dragonflies
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Monitoring documents}}
{{Monitoring documents end}}
{{Additional Documents}}
{{Additional Documents end}}
{{Additional links and references header}}
{{Additional links and references footer}}
{{Supplementary Information}}
{{Toggle content end}}

User:Ecopatrimonio

2025-12-19T11:16:08Z

Ecopatrimonio: Created page with "Especialistas en proyectos y servicios a medida para entidades públicas y privadas en medioambiente, territorio, patrimonio y turismo sostenible."

Especialistas en proyectos y servicios a medida para entidades públicas y privadas en medioambiente, territorio, patrimonio y turismo sostenible.

File:Logotipo-vivillo-vertical.png

2025-12-19T11:03:53Z

Ecopatrimonio:

Case study:RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)

2025-12-19T10:15:13Z

Ecopatrimonio:

{{Case study status
|Approval status=Draft
}}
{{Location
|Location=37.98043, -1.17378
}}
{{Project overview
|Status=In progress
|Themes=Environmental flows and water resources, Flood risk management, Habitat and biodiversity, Hydromorphology, Land use management - agriculture, Land use management - forestry, Social benefits, Spatial planning, Urban, Water quality
|Country=Spain
|Main contact forename=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact surname=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact id=Ayuntamiento de Murcia
|Contact organisation=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Contact organisation url=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Multi-site=No
|Project summary=The project is part of a joint strategy developed since 2017 by the City Council of Murcia and the Universities of Murcia and Cartagena (UPCT) aimed at the environmental restoration of the Segura River and its former meanders in the western area of the municipality. This global strategy, completed in 2019, defines 26 types of environmental and territorial actions applied to 27 specific river sections, focusing on riverbed restoration, riparian revegetation, agroecological recovery of the huerta, flood risk management, improvement of paths and connectivity, enhancement of hydraulic heritage, and environmental education.

The areas of intervention are classified according to their morphology (large meanders, medium meanders, small bends, fluvial terraces, and connecting areas). Four of these were prioritized due to their social, environmental, and administrative relevance, including the Meandro Chico del Vivillo. These areas allow improvements in the river’s longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity, the recovery of biodiversity, the reduction of flood risk, and the creation of new green spaces close to densely populated urban areas.

The Vivillo Meander project was developed as a preliminary design and received European funding through the Biodiversity Foundation within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan. Its objective is to reverse the negative impacts of river channelization carried out since the 1970s, which straightened the river, eliminated meanders, and disconnected it from its floodplain, leading to a loss of fluvial dynamics and biodiversity.

The proposal is based on contemporary river restoration principles that promote the recovery of natural river geomorphology, reconnection with the floodplain, enhancement of riparian forests, and the creation of diverse habitats, demonstrating that nature-based solutions are more effective and sustainable than traditional channelization approaches for flood management.
|Monitoring surveys and results=1. Strategic and Planning Results
• A global environmental restoration strategy was defined for the Segura River in the western area of the municipality of Murcia, structured into:
o 26 types of actions (9 general actions applicable to the entire proposal and 17 specific actions for defined areas).
o 27 specific intervention areas between La Contraparada and the city of Murcia.
• Four priority preliminary design projects were developed: Rambla de la Ventosa, Meandro Chico del Vivillo, Meandro del Molino de la Rosquilla, and Meandro del Molino de Funes.
2. Administrative and Funding Results
• The Fluvial Restoration Project of the former Segura River channel at the Vivillo Meander was:
o Submitted to the Fundación Biodiversidad grant call (NextGenerationEU).
o Awarded funding of €1,670,158.9 in September 2022.
• The preliminary design was reviewed by the Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura (CHS), which issued technical considerations in June 2023.
• The drafting of the project was commissioned to Urbanizadora Municipal S.A. (URBAMUSA), with technical assistance provided by the Polytechnic University of Cartagena.
3. Environmental Diagnostic Results
• The channelization works carried out between the 1970s and 1990s:
o Caused a loss of the river’s natural alignment, riverbed, and riparian zones.
o Led to a disconnection between the active channel and the floodplain.
o Resulted in 20 abandoned meanders within the Region of Murcia.
• The current river reach is characterized by:
o A homogeneous and rectilinear morphology.
o Widespread invasion by Arundo donax (giant reed).
o The absence of a functional riparian forest.
4. Fluvial Connectivity Results
• A significant deterioration of fluvial connectivity was identified:
o Longitudinal connectivity: lack of continuous riparian vegetation.
o Lateral connectivity: disconnection between the river channel and the floodplain.
o Vertical connectivity: alteration of subsurface and groundwater flows.
• The recovery of abandoned meanders would:
o Increase habitat diversity.
o Enhance the ecological resilience of the fluvial system.
5. Hydraulic Analysis and Flood Risk Results
• According to the Flood Hazard and Risk Maps (MPRI):
o No significant flood risk exists for return periods of 10 and 50 years.
o The entire intervention area is flood-prone for return periods of 100 and 500 years.
• The project area is included within a Preferential Flow Zone (PFZ).
• A hydraulic study using HEC-RAS was conducted, comparing scenarios:
o Without implementation of the meander restoration.
o With implementation of the meander restoration.
• The results confirm that the proposed intervention:
o Does not increase flood risk upstream or downstream.
o Improves flood attenuation capacity during extreme events.
6. Urban Planning and Legal Compliance Results
• The intervention area is fully compatible with the Plan General de Organización Urbanística (PGOU):
o Classified as a Hydraulic General System and Green/Open Space System.
• The project:
o Is entirely located within the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Complies with the Spanish Water Law and the Regulations of the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Meets fluvial restoration and ecological continuity criteria.
7. Overall Project Outcome
• The proposal:
o Restores a more natural fluvial morphology.
o Enhances ecological connectivity.
o Reduces flood risk through nature-based solutions.
o Demonstrates technical, environmental, urban planning, and legal feasibility.
|Lessons learn=1. The historical channelization of the Segura River, mainly carried out between the 1970s and 1990s, reduced immediate flood risk but resulted in a significant loss of natural fluvial dynamics, ecological connectivity, and floodplain functionality.
2. The disconnection between the current river channel and the abandoned meanders has led to marked environmental degradation, characterized by morphological homogenization, the disappearance of riparian forests, and the spread of invasive species such as Arundo donax.
3. The Meandro Chico del Vivillo area shows a high potential for fluvial restoration, as it is a former river bend located within the Public Hydraulic Domain, with minimal impact on private land and full urban planning compatibility.
4. The recovery of the former meander through channel widening and riparian revegetation will significantly improve longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity of the fluvial system, increasing habitat diversity and enhancing the ecological resilience of the Segura River.
5. The hydraulic studies conducted demonstrate that the proposed intervention does not increase flood risk for the analyzed return periods and contributes to improved flood attenuation during extreme flood events.
6. The intervention complies with current water, land-use planning, and flood risk management regulations, and is aligned with fluvial restoration principles and nature-based solutions.
7. The project represents a strategic and replicable action for the environmental recovery of the Segura River fluvial corridor, providing environmental, social, and landscape benefits, and strengthening institutional cooperation between public administrations and universities.
|Project title=RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)
}}
{{Image gallery}}
{{Image gallery end}}
{{Toggle button}}
{{Toggle content start}}
{{Case study subcatchment}}
{{Site
|Name=Meandro Chico del Vivillo
|WFD water body code=ES070MSPF
|WFD (national) typology=ES070MSPF002080115
|WFD water body name=Segura River
|Pre-project morphology=Artificial channel, Low gradient passively meandering
|Reference morphology=Low gradient passively meandering
|Desired post project morphology=Low gradient passively meandering, Reinforced banks
|Heavily modified water body=Yes
|Site designation=Spain - Parque Periurbano
|Local site designation=Metropolitan Green Belt, Habitats of Community Interest
|Protected species present=Yes
|Invasive species present=Yes
|Species=Arundo donax, Populus alba, Phoenix dactilyfera
|Dominant hydrology=Artificially regulated
|Dominant substrate=Pebble, Silt
|River corridor land use=Orchard, Urban
|Average bankfull channel width category=5 - 10 m
|Avrg bankfull channel width=12.10
|Average bankfull channel depth category=0.5 - 2 m
|Avrg1 bankfull channel depth=1
|Mean discharge category=0.1 - 1.0 m³/s
|Mn discharge=0.3
|Average channel gradient category=Less than 0.001
|Avrg channel gradient=0.0007
}}
{{Project background
|Project started=2025-05-09
|Works started=2025-10-25
|Total cost category=more than 10000 k€
|Total1 cost=1426.461552
|Funding sources=Recovery Transformation and Resilience Plan
}}
{{Motivations
|Specific mitigation=Invasive species, Riparian development
|Hydromorphological quality elements=Flow velocities, Fluvial conectivity, Flood attenuation capacity
|Biological quality elements=Angiosperms, Macrophytes, Macrophytes and/or phytobenthos: Average abundance, Riparian habitat
|Other motivation=Historical channels, Hydraulic heritage of the river reach
}}
{{Measures
|Bank and bed modifications measure=Right bank maintains the existing levee, Left bank turns with the old meander, Current levee elevation is mantained
|Floodplain / River corridor=Habitat restoration, Planting of autochthonous vegetation
|Planform / Channel pattern=Modification of existing defenses, restoration of the old meander
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality elements header}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Freshwater flow regime
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Quantity & dynamics of flow
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Width & depth variation
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Continuity of sediment transport
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Biological quality elements header}}
{{Biological quality element table row
|Element=Macrophytes
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=Yes
}}
{{Biological quality element table row
|Element=Invertebrates: Abundance
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Biological quality element table row
|Element=Angiosperms
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=No
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Physico-chemical quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Other responses header}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Reed
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Flood risk management
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Erosion
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Riparian tree establishment
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Birds
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Mammel survey
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=No
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=European otter
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=dragonflies
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Monitoring documents}}
{{Monitoring documents end}}
{{Additional Documents}}
{{Additional Documents end}}
{{Additional links and references header}}
{{Additional links and references footer}}
{{Supplementary Information}}
{{Toggle content end}}

Case study:RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)

2025-12-19T10:11:24Z

Ecopatrimonio:

{{Case study status
|Approval status=Draft
}}
{{Location
|Location=37.98043, -1.17378
}}
{{Project overview
|Status=In progress
|Themes=Environmental flows and water resources, Flood risk management, Habitat and biodiversity, Hydromorphology, Land use management - agriculture, Land use management - forestry, Social benefits, Spatial planning, Urban, Water quality
|Country=Spain
|Main contact forename=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact surname=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact id=Ayuntamiento de Murcia
|Contact organisation=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Contact organisation url=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Multi-site=No
|Project summary=The project is part of a joint strategy developed since 2017 by the City Council of Murcia and the Universities of Murcia and Cartagena (UPCT) aimed at the environmental restoration of the Segura River and its former meanders in the western area of the municipality. This global strategy, completed in 2019, defines 26 types of environmental and territorial actions applied to 27 specific river sections, focusing on riverbed restoration, riparian revegetation, agroecological recovery of the huerta, flood risk management, improvement of paths and connectivity, enhancement of hydraulic heritage, and environmental education.

The areas of intervention are classified according to their morphology (large meanders, medium meanders, small bends, fluvial terraces, and connecting areas). Four of these were prioritized due to their social, environmental, and administrative relevance, including the Meandro Chico del Vivillo. These areas allow improvements in the river’s longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity, the recovery of biodiversity, the reduction of flood risk, and the creation of new green spaces close to densely populated urban areas.

The Vivillo Meander project was developed as a preliminary design and received European funding through the Biodiversity Foundation within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan. Its objective is to reverse the negative impacts of river channelization carried out since the 1970s, which straightened the river, eliminated meanders, and disconnected it from its floodplain, leading to a loss of fluvial dynamics and biodiversity.

The proposal is based on contemporary river restoration principles that promote the recovery of natural river geomorphology, reconnection with the floodplain, enhancement of riparian forests, and the creation of diverse habitats, demonstrating that nature-based solutions are more effective and sustainable than traditional channelization approaches for flood management.
|Monitoring surveys and results=1. Strategic and Planning Results
• A global environmental restoration strategy was defined for the Segura River in the western area of the municipality of Murcia, structured into:
o 26 types of actions (9 general actions applicable to the entire proposal and 17 specific actions for defined areas).
o 27 specific intervention areas between La Contraparada and the city of Murcia.
• Four priority preliminary design projects were developed: Rambla de la Ventosa, Meandro Chico del Vivillo, Meandro del Molino de la Rosquilla, and Meandro del Molino de Funes.
2. Administrative and Funding Results
• The Fluvial Restoration Project of the former Segura River channel at the Vivillo Meander was:
o Submitted to the Fundación Biodiversidad grant call (NextGenerationEU).
o Awarded funding of €1,670,158.9 in September 2022.
• The preliminary design was reviewed by the Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura (CHS), which issued technical considerations in June 2023.
• The drafting of the project was commissioned to Urbanizadora Municipal S.A. (URBAMUSA), with technical assistance provided by the Polytechnic University of Cartagena.
3. Environmental Diagnostic Results
• The channelization works carried out between the 1970s and 1990s:
o Caused a loss of the river’s natural alignment, riverbed, and riparian zones.
o Led to a disconnection between the active channel and the floodplain.
o Resulted in 20 abandoned meanders within the Region of Murcia.
• The current river reach is characterized by:
o A homogeneous and rectilinear morphology.
o Widespread invasion by Arundo donax (giant reed).
o The absence of a functional riparian forest.
4. Fluvial Connectivity Results
• A significant deterioration of fluvial connectivity was identified:
o Longitudinal connectivity: lack of continuous riparian vegetation.
o Lateral connectivity: disconnection between the river channel and the floodplain.
o Vertical connectivity: alteration of subsurface and groundwater flows.
• The recovery of abandoned meanders would:
o Increase habitat diversity.
o Enhance the ecological resilience of the fluvial system.
5. Hydraulic Analysis and Flood Risk Results
• According to the Flood Hazard and Risk Maps (MPRI):
o No significant flood risk exists for return periods of 10 and 50 years.
o The entire intervention area is flood-prone for return periods of 100 and 500 years.
• The project area is included within a Preferential Flow Zone (PFZ).
• A hydraulic study using HEC-RAS was conducted, comparing scenarios:
o Without implementation of the meander restoration.
o With implementation of the meander restoration.
• The results confirm that the proposed intervention:
o Does not increase flood risk upstream or downstream.
o Improves flood attenuation capacity during extreme events.
6. Urban Planning and Legal Compliance Results
• The intervention area is fully compatible with the Plan General de Organización Urbanística (PGOU):
o Classified as a Hydraulic General System and Green/Open Space System.
• The project:
o Is entirely located within the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Complies with the Spanish Water Law and the Regulations of the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Meets fluvial restoration and ecological continuity criteria.
7. Overall Project Outcome
• The proposal:
o Restores a more natural fluvial morphology.
o Enhances ecological connectivity.
o Reduces flood risk through nature-based solutions.
o Demonstrates technical, environmental, urban planning, and legal feasibility.
|Lessons learn=1. The historical channelization of the Segura River, mainly carried out between the 1970s and 1990s, reduced immediate flood risk but resulted in a significant loss of natural fluvial dynamics, ecological connectivity, and floodplain functionality.
2. The disconnection between the current river channel and the abandoned meanders has led to marked environmental degradation, characterized by morphological homogenization, the disappearance of riparian forests, and the spread of invasive species such as Arundo donax.
3. The Meandro Chico del Vivillo area shows a high potential for fluvial restoration, as it is a former river bend located within the Public Hydraulic Domain, with minimal impact on private land and full urban planning compatibility.
4. The recovery of the former meander through channel widening and riparian revegetation will significantly improve longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity of the fluvial system, increasing habitat diversity and enhancing the ecological resilience of the Segura River.
5. The hydraulic studies conducted demonstrate that the proposed intervention does not increase flood risk for the analyzed return periods and contributes to improved flood attenuation during extreme flood events.
6. The intervention complies with current water, land-use planning, and flood risk management regulations, and is aligned with fluvial restoration principles and nature-based solutions.
7. The project represents a strategic and replicable action for the environmental recovery of the Segura River fluvial corridor, providing environmental, social, and landscape benefits, and strengthening institutional cooperation between public administrations and universities.
|Project title=RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)
}}
{{Image gallery}}
{{Image gallery end}}
{{Toggle button}}
{{Toggle content start}}
{{Case study subcatchment}}
{{Site
|Name=Meandro Chico del Vivillo
|WFD water body code=ES070MSPF
|WFD (national) typology=ES070MSPF002080115
|WFD water body name=Segura River
|Pre-project morphology=Artificial channel, Low gradient passively meandering
|Reference morphology=Low gradient passively meandering
|Desired post project morphology=Low gradient passively meandering, Reinforced banks
|Heavily modified water body=Yes
|Site designation=Spain - Parque Periurbano
|Local site designation=Metropolitan Green Belt, Habitats of Community Interest
|Protected species present=Yes
|Invasive species present=Yes
|Species=Arundo donax, Populus alba, Phoenix dactilyfera
|Dominant hydrology=Artificially regulated
|Dominant substrate=Pebble, Silt
|River corridor land use=Orchard, Urban
|Average bankfull channel width category=5 - 10 m
|Avrg bankfull channel width=12.10
|Average bankfull channel depth category=0.5 - 2 m
|Avrg1 bankfull channel depth=1
|Mean discharge category=0.1 - 1.0 m³/s
|Mn discharge=0.3
|Average channel gradient category=Less than 0.001
|Avrg channel gradient=0.0007
}}
{{Project background
|Project started=2025-05-09
|Works started=2025-10-25
|Total cost category=more than 10000 k€
|Total1 cost=1426.461552
|Funding sources=Recovery Transformation and Resilience Plan
}}
{{Motivations
|Specific mitigation=Invasive species, Riparian development
|Hydromorphological quality elements=Flow velocities, Fluvial conectivity, Flood attenuation capacity
|Biological quality elements=Angiosperms, Macrophytes, Macrophytes and/or phytobenthos: Average abundance, Riparian habitat
|Other motivation=Historical channels, Hydraulic heritage of the river reach
}}
{{Measures
|Bank and bed modifications measure=Right bank maintains the existing levee, Left bank turns with the old meander, Current levee elevation is mantained
|Floodplain / River corridor=Habitat restoration, Planting of autochthonous vegetation
|Planform / Channel pattern=Modification of existing defenses, restoration of the old meander
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality elements header}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Freshwater flow regime
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Quantity & dynamics of flow
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Width & depth variation
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Continuity of sediment transport
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Biological quality elements header}}
{{Biological quality element table row
|Element=Macrophytes
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=Yes
}}
{{End table}}
{{Physico-chemical quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Other responses header}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Reed
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Flood risk management
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Erosion
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Riparian tree establishment
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Birds
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Mammel survey
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=No
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=European otter
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=dragonflies
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Monitoring documents}}
{{Monitoring documents end}}
{{Additional Documents}}
{{Additional Documents end}}
{{Additional links and references header}}
{{Additional links and references footer}}
{{Supplementary Information}}
{{Toggle content end}}

Case study:RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)

2025-12-19T10:08:22Z

Ecopatrimonio:

{{Case study status
|Approval status=Draft
}}
{{Location
|Location=37.98043, -1.17378
}}
{{Project overview
|Status=In progress
|Themes=Environmental flows and water resources, Flood risk management, Habitat and biodiversity, Hydromorphology, Land use management - agriculture, Land use management - forestry, Social benefits, Spatial planning, Urban, Water quality
|Country=Spain
|Main contact forename=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact surname=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact id=Ayuntamiento de Murcia
|Contact organisation=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Contact organisation url=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Multi-site=No
|Project summary=The project is part of a joint strategy developed since 2017 by the City Council of Murcia and the Universities of Murcia and Cartagena (UPCT) aimed at the environmental restoration of the Segura River and its former meanders in the western area of the municipality. This global strategy, completed in 2019, defines 26 types of environmental and territorial actions applied to 27 specific river sections, focusing on riverbed restoration, riparian revegetation, agroecological recovery of the huerta, flood risk management, improvement of paths and connectivity, enhancement of hydraulic heritage, and environmental education.

The areas of intervention are classified according to their morphology (large meanders, medium meanders, small bends, fluvial terraces, and connecting areas). Four of these were prioritized due to their social, environmental, and administrative relevance, including the Meandro Chico del Vivillo. These areas allow improvements in the river’s longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity, the recovery of biodiversity, the reduction of flood risk, and the creation of new green spaces close to densely populated urban areas.

The Vivillo Meander project was developed as a preliminary design and received European funding through the Biodiversity Foundation within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan. Its objective is to reverse the negative impacts of river channelization carried out since the 1970s, which straightened the river, eliminated meanders, and disconnected it from its floodplain, leading to a loss of fluvial dynamics and biodiversity.

The proposal is based on contemporary river restoration principles that promote the recovery of natural river geomorphology, reconnection with the floodplain, enhancement of riparian forests, and the creation of diverse habitats, demonstrating that nature-based solutions are more effective and sustainable than traditional channelization approaches for flood management.
|Monitoring surveys and results=1. Strategic and Planning Results
• A global environmental restoration strategy was defined for the Segura River in the western area of the municipality of Murcia, structured into:
o 26 types of actions (9 general actions applicable to the entire proposal and 17 specific actions for defined areas).
o 27 specific intervention areas between La Contraparada and the city of Murcia.
• Four priority preliminary design projects were developed: Rambla de la Ventosa, Meandro Chico del Vivillo, Meandro del Molino de la Rosquilla, and Meandro del Molino de Funes.
2. Administrative and Funding Results
• The Fluvial Restoration Project of the former Segura River channel at the Vivillo Meander was:
o Submitted to the Fundación Biodiversidad grant call (NextGenerationEU).
o Awarded funding of €1,670,158.9 in September 2022.
• The preliminary design was reviewed by the Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura (CHS), which issued technical considerations in June 2023.
• The drafting of the project was commissioned to Urbanizadora Municipal S.A. (URBAMUSA), with technical assistance provided by the Polytechnic University of Cartagena.
3. Environmental Diagnostic Results
• The channelization works carried out between the 1970s and 1990s:
o Caused a loss of the river’s natural alignment, riverbed, and riparian zones.
o Led to a disconnection between the active channel and the floodplain.
o Resulted in 20 abandoned meanders within the Region of Murcia.
• The current river reach is characterized by:
o A homogeneous and rectilinear morphology.
o Widespread invasion by Arundo donax (giant reed).
o The absence of a functional riparian forest.
4. Fluvial Connectivity Results
• A significant deterioration of fluvial connectivity was identified:
o Longitudinal connectivity: lack of continuous riparian vegetation.
o Lateral connectivity: disconnection between the river channel and the floodplain.
o Vertical connectivity: alteration of subsurface and groundwater flows.
• The recovery of abandoned meanders would:
o Increase habitat diversity.
o Enhance the ecological resilience of the fluvial system.
5. Hydraulic Analysis and Flood Risk Results
• According to the Flood Hazard and Risk Maps (MPRI):
o No significant flood risk exists for return periods of 10 and 50 years.
o The entire intervention area is flood-prone for return periods of 100 and 500 years.
• The project area is included within a Preferential Flow Zone (PFZ).
• A hydraulic study using HEC-RAS was conducted, comparing scenarios:
o Without implementation of the meander restoration.
o With implementation of the meander restoration.
• The results confirm that the proposed intervention:
o Does not increase flood risk upstream or downstream.
o Improves flood attenuation capacity during extreme events.
6. Urban Planning and Legal Compliance Results
• The intervention area is fully compatible with the Plan General de Organización Urbanística (PGOU):
o Classified as a Hydraulic General System and Green/Open Space System.
• The project:
o Is entirely located within the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Complies with the Spanish Water Law and the Regulations of the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Meets fluvial restoration and ecological continuity criteria.
7. Overall Project Outcome
• The proposal:
o Restores a more natural fluvial morphology.
o Enhances ecological connectivity.
o Reduces flood risk through nature-based solutions.
o Demonstrates technical, environmental, urban planning, and legal feasibility.
|Lessons learn=1. The historical channelization of the Segura River, mainly carried out between the 1970s and 1990s, reduced immediate flood risk but resulted in a significant loss of natural fluvial dynamics, ecological connectivity, and floodplain functionality.
2. The disconnection between the current river channel and the abandoned meanders has led to marked environmental degradation, characterized by morphological homogenization, the disappearance of riparian forests, and the spread of invasive species such as Arundo donax.
3. The Meandro Chico del Vivillo area shows a high potential for fluvial restoration, as it is a former river bend located within the Public Hydraulic Domain, with minimal impact on private land and full urban planning compatibility.
4. The recovery of the former meander through channel widening and riparian revegetation will significantly improve longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity of the fluvial system, increasing habitat diversity and enhancing the ecological resilience of the Segura River.
5. The hydraulic studies conducted demonstrate that the proposed intervention does not increase flood risk for the analyzed return periods and contributes to improved flood attenuation during extreme flood events.
6. The intervention complies with current water, land-use planning, and flood risk management regulations, and is aligned with fluvial restoration principles and nature-based solutions.
7. The project represents a strategic and replicable action for the environmental recovery of the Segura River fluvial corridor, providing environmental, social, and landscape benefits, and strengthening institutional cooperation between public administrations and universities.
|Project title=RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)
}}
{{Image gallery}}
{{Image gallery end}}
{{Toggle button}}
{{Toggle content start}}
{{Case study subcatchment}}
{{Site
|Name=Meandro Chico del Vivillo
|WFD water body code=ES070MSPF
|WFD (national) typology=ES070MSPF002080115
|WFD water body name=Segura River
|Pre-project morphology=Artificial channel, Low gradient passively meandering
|Reference morphology=Low gradient passively meandering
|Desired post project morphology=Low gradient passively meandering, Reinforced banks
|Heavily modified water body=Yes
|Site designation=Spain - Parque Periurbano
|Local site designation=Metropolitan Green Belt, Habitats of Community Interest
|Protected species present=Yes
|Invasive species present=Yes
|Species=Arundo donax, Populus alba, Phoenix dactilyfera
|Dominant hydrology=Artificially regulated
|Dominant substrate=Pebble, Silt
|River corridor land use=Orchard, Urban
|Average bankfull channel width category=5 - 10 m
|Avrg bankfull channel width=12.10
|Average bankfull channel depth category=0.5 - 2 m
|Avrg1 bankfull channel depth=1
|Mean discharge category=0.1 - 1.0 m³/s
|Mn discharge=0.3
|Average channel gradient category=Less than 0.001
|Avrg channel gradient=0.0007
}}
{{Project background
|Project started=2025-05-09
|Works started=2025-10-25
|Total cost category=more than 10000 k€
|Total1 cost=1426.461552
|Funding sources=Recovery Transformation and Resilience Plan
}}
{{Motivations
|Specific mitigation=Invasive species, Riparian development
|Hydromorphological quality elements=Flow velocities, Fluvial conectivity, Flood attenuation capacity
|Biological quality elements=Angiosperms, Macrophytes, Macrophytes and/or phytobenthos: Average abundance, Riparian habitat
|Other motivation=Historical channels, Hydraulic heritage of the river reach
}}
{{Measures
|Bank and bed modifications measure=Right bank maintains the existing levee, Left bank turns with the old meander, Current levee elevation is mantained
|Floodplain / River corridor=Habitat restoration, Planting of autochthonous vegetation
|Planform / Channel pattern=Modification of existing defenses, restoration of the old meander
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality elements header}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Freshwater flow regime
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Quantity & dynamics of flow
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Width & depth variation
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Biological quality elements header}}
{{Biological quality element table row
|Element=Macrophytes
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=Yes
}}
{{End table}}
{{Physico-chemical quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Other responses header}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Reed
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Flood risk management
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Erosion
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Riparian tree establishment
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Birds
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Mammel survey
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=No
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=European otter
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=dragonflies
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Monitoring documents}}
{{Monitoring documents end}}
{{Additional Documents}}
{{Additional Documents end}}
{{Additional links and references header}}
{{Additional links and references footer}}
{{Supplementary Information}}
{{Toggle content end}}

Case study:RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)

2025-12-19T09:58:54Z

Ecopatrimonio:

{{Case study status
|Approval status=Draft
}}
{{Location
|Location=37.98043, -1.17378
}}
{{Project overview
|Status=In progress
|Themes=Environmental flows and water resources, Flood risk management, Habitat and biodiversity, Hydromorphology, Land use management - agriculture, Land use management - forestry, Social benefits, Spatial planning, Urban, Water quality
|Country=Spain
|Main contact forename=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact surname=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact id=Ayuntamiento de Murcia
|Contact organisation=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Contact organisation url=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Multi-site=No
|Project summary=The project is part of a joint strategy developed since 2017 by the City Council of Murcia and the Universities of Murcia and Cartagena (UPCT) aimed at the environmental restoration of the Segura River and its former meanders in the western area of the municipality. This global strategy, completed in 2019, defines 26 types of environmental and territorial actions applied to 27 specific river sections, focusing on riverbed restoration, riparian revegetation, agroecological recovery of the huerta, flood risk management, improvement of paths and connectivity, enhancement of hydraulic heritage, and environmental education.

The areas of intervention are classified according to their morphology (large meanders, medium meanders, small bends, fluvial terraces, and connecting areas). Four of these were prioritized due to their social, environmental, and administrative relevance, including the Meandro Chico del Vivillo. These areas allow improvements in the river’s longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity, the recovery of biodiversity, the reduction of flood risk, and the creation of new green spaces close to densely populated urban areas.

The Vivillo Meander project was developed as a preliminary design and received European funding through the Biodiversity Foundation within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan. Its objective is to reverse the negative impacts of river channelization carried out since the 1970s, which straightened the river, eliminated meanders, and disconnected it from its floodplain, leading to a loss of fluvial dynamics and biodiversity.

The proposal is based on contemporary river restoration principles that promote the recovery of natural river geomorphology, reconnection with the floodplain, enhancement of riparian forests, and the creation of diverse habitats, demonstrating that nature-based solutions are more effective and sustainable than traditional channelization approaches for flood management.
|Monitoring surveys and results=1. Strategic and Planning Results
• A global environmental restoration strategy was defined for the Segura River in the western area of the municipality of Murcia, structured into:
o 26 types of actions (9 general actions applicable to the entire proposal and 17 specific actions for defined areas).
o 27 specific intervention areas between La Contraparada and the city of Murcia.
• Four priority preliminary design projects were developed: Rambla de la Ventosa, Meandro Chico del Vivillo, Meandro del Molino de la Rosquilla, and Meandro del Molino de Funes.
2. Administrative and Funding Results
• The Fluvial Restoration Project of the former Segura River channel at the Vivillo Meander was:
o Submitted to the Fundación Biodiversidad grant call (NextGenerationEU).
o Awarded funding of €1,670,158.9 in September 2022.
• The preliminary design was reviewed by the Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura (CHS), which issued technical considerations in June 2023.
• The drafting of the project was commissioned to Urbanizadora Municipal S.A. (URBAMUSA), with technical assistance provided by the Polytechnic University of Cartagena.
3. Environmental Diagnostic Results
• The channelization works carried out between the 1970s and 1990s:
o Caused a loss of the river’s natural alignment, riverbed, and riparian zones.
o Led to a disconnection between the active channel and the floodplain.
o Resulted in 20 abandoned meanders within the Region of Murcia.
• The current river reach is characterized by:
o A homogeneous and rectilinear morphology.
o Widespread invasion by Arundo donax (giant reed).
o The absence of a functional riparian forest.
4. Fluvial Connectivity Results
• A significant deterioration of fluvial connectivity was identified:
o Longitudinal connectivity: lack of continuous riparian vegetation.
o Lateral connectivity: disconnection between the river channel and the floodplain.
o Vertical connectivity: alteration of subsurface and groundwater flows.
• The recovery of abandoned meanders would:
o Increase habitat diversity.
o Enhance the ecological resilience of the fluvial system.
5. Hydraulic Analysis and Flood Risk Results
• According to the Flood Hazard and Risk Maps (MPRI):
o No significant flood risk exists for return periods of 10 and 50 years.
o The entire intervention area is flood-prone for return periods of 100 and 500 years.
• The project area is included within a Preferential Flow Zone (PFZ).
• A hydraulic study using HEC-RAS was conducted, comparing scenarios:
o Without implementation of the meander restoration.
o With implementation of the meander restoration.
• The results confirm that the proposed intervention:
o Does not increase flood risk upstream or downstream.
o Improves flood attenuation capacity during extreme events.
6. Urban Planning and Legal Compliance Results
• The intervention area is fully compatible with the Plan General de Organización Urbanística (PGOU):
o Classified as a Hydraulic General System and Green/Open Space System.
• The project:
o Is entirely located within the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Complies with the Spanish Water Law and the Regulations of the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Meets fluvial restoration and ecological continuity criteria.
7. Overall Project Outcome
• The proposal:
o Restores a more natural fluvial morphology.
o Enhances ecological connectivity.
o Reduces flood risk through nature-based solutions.
o Demonstrates technical, environmental, urban planning, and legal feasibility.
|Lessons learn=1. The historical channelization of the Segura River, mainly carried out between the 1970s and 1990s, reduced immediate flood risk but resulted in a significant loss of natural fluvial dynamics, ecological connectivity, and floodplain functionality.
2. The disconnection between the current river channel and the abandoned meanders has led to marked environmental degradation, characterized by morphological homogenization, the disappearance of riparian forests, and the spread of invasive species such as Arundo donax.
3. The Meandro Chico del Vivillo area shows a high potential for fluvial restoration, as it is a former river bend located within the Public Hydraulic Domain, with minimal impact on private land and full urban planning compatibility.
4. The recovery of the former meander through channel widening and riparian revegetation will significantly improve longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity of the fluvial system, increasing habitat diversity and enhancing the ecological resilience of the Segura River.
5. The hydraulic studies conducted demonstrate that the proposed intervention does not increase flood risk for the analyzed return periods and contributes to improved flood attenuation during extreme flood events.
6. The intervention complies with current water, land-use planning, and flood risk management regulations, and is aligned with fluvial restoration principles and nature-based solutions.
7. The project represents a strategic and replicable action for the environmental recovery of the Segura River fluvial corridor, providing environmental, social, and landscape benefits, and strengthening institutional cooperation between public administrations and universities.
|Project title=RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)
}}
{{Image gallery}}
{{Image gallery end}}
{{Toggle button}}
{{Toggle content start}}
{{Case study subcatchment}}
{{Site
|Name=Meandro Chico del Vivillo
|WFD water body code=ES070MSPF
|WFD (national) typology=ES070MSPF002080115
|WFD water body name=Segura River
|Pre-project morphology=Artificial channel, Low gradient passively meandering
|Reference morphology=Low gradient passively meandering
|Desired post project morphology=Low gradient passively meandering, Reinforced banks
|Heavily modified water body=Yes
|Site designation=Spain - Parque Periurbano
|Local site designation=Metropolitan Green Belt, Habitats of Community Interest
|Protected species present=Yes
|Invasive species present=Yes
|Species=Arundo donax, Populus alba, Phoenix dactilyfera
|Dominant hydrology=Artificially regulated
|Dominant substrate=Pebble, Silt
|River corridor land use=Orchard, Urban
|Average bankfull channel width category=5 - 10 m
|Avrg bankfull channel width=12.10
|Average bankfull channel depth category=0.5 - 2 m
|Avrg1 bankfull channel depth=1
|Mean discharge category=0.1 - 1.0 m³/s
|Mn discharge=0.3
|Average channel gradient category=Less than 0.001
|Avrg channel gradient=0.0007
}}
{{Project background
|Project started=2025-05-09
|Works started=2025-10-25
|Total cost category=more than 10000 k€
|Total1 cost=1426.461552
|Funding sources=Recovery Transformation and Resilience Plan
}}
{{Motivations
|Specific mitigation=Invasive species, Riparian development
|Hydromorphological quality elements=Flow velocities, Fluvial conectivity, Flood attenuation capacity
|Biological quality elements=Angiosperms, Macrophytes, Macrophytes and/or phytobenthos: Average abundance, Riparian habitat
|Other motivation=Historical channels, Hydraulic heritage of the river reach
}}
{{Measures
|Bank and bed modifications measure=Right bank maintains the existing levee, Left bank turns with the old meander, Current levee elevation is mantained
|Floodplain / River corridor=Habitat restoration, Planting of autochthonous vegetation
|Planform / Channel pattern=Modification of existing defenses, restoration of the old meander
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality elements header}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Freshwater flow regime
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Quantity & dynamics of flow
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Width & depth variation
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Biological quality elements header}}
{{Biological quality element table row
|Element=Macrophytes
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=Yes
}}
{{End table}}
{{Physico-chemical quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Other responses header}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Reed
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Flood risk management
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Monitoring documents}}
{{Monitoring documents end}}
{{Additional Documents}}
{{Additional Documents end}}
{{Additional links and references header}}
{{Additional links and references footer}}
{{Supplementary Information}}
{{Toggle content end}}

Case study:RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)

2025-12-19T09:52:46Z

Ecopatrimonio:

{{Case study status
|Approval status=Draft
}}
{{Location
|Location=37.98043, -1.17378
}}
{{Project overview
|Status=In progress
|Themes=Environmental flows and water resources, Flood risk management, Habitat and biodiversity, Hydromorphology, Land use management - agriculture, Land use management - forestry, Social benefits, Spatial planning, Urban, Water quality
|Country=Spain
|Main contact forename=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact surname=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact id=Ayuntamiento de Murcia
|Contact organisation=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Contact organisation url=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Multi-site=No
|Project summary=The project is part of a joint strategy developed since 2017 by the City Council of Murcia and the Universities of Murcia and Cartagena (UPCT) aimed at the environmental restoration of the Segura River and its former meanders in the western area of the municipality. This global strategy, completed in 2019, defines 26 types of environmental and territorial actions applied to 27 specific river sections, focusing on riverbed restoration, riparian revegetation, agroecological recovery of the huerta, flood risk management, improvement of paths and connectivity, enhancement of hydraulic heritage, and environmental education.

The areas of intervention are classified according to their morphology (large meanders, medium meanders, small bends, fluvial terraces, and connecting areas). Four of these were prioritized due to their social, environmental, and administrative relevance, including the Meandro Chico del Vivillo. These areas allow improvements in the river’s longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity, the recovery of biodiversity, the reduction of flood risk, and the creation of new green spaces close to densely populated urban areas.

The Vivillo Meander project was developed as a preliminary design and received European funding through the Biodiversity Foundation within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan. Its objective is to reverse the negative impacts of river channelization carried out since the 1970s, which straightened the river, eliminated meanders, and disconnected it from its floodplain, leading to a loss of fluvial dynamics and biodiversity.

The proposal is based on contemporary river restoration principles that promote the recovery of natural river geomorphology, reconnection with the floodplain, enhancement of riparian forests, and the creation of diverse habitats, demonstrating that nature-based solutions are more effective and sustainable than traditional channelization approaches for flood management.
|Monitoring surveys and results=1. Strategic and Planning Results
• A global environmental restoration strategy was defined for the Segura River in the western area of the municipality of Murcia, structured into:
o 26 types of actions (9 general actions applicable to the entire proposal and 17 specific actions for defined areas).
o 27 specific intervention areas between La Contraparada and the city of Murcia.
• Four priority preliminary design projects were developed: Rambla de la Ventosa, Meandro Chico del Vivillo, Meandro del Molino de la Rosquilla, and Meandro del Molino de Funes.
2. Administrative and Funding Results
• The Fluvial Restoration Project of the former Segura River channel at the Vivillo Meander was:
o Submitted to the Fundación Biodiversidad grant call (NextGenerationEU).
o Awarded funding of €1,670,158.9 in September 2022.
• The preliminary design was reviewed by the Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura (CHS), which issued technical considerations in June 2023.
• The drafting of the project was commissioned to Urbanizadora Municipal S.A. (URBAMUSA), with technical assistance provided by the Polytechnic University of Cartagena.
3. Environmental Diagnostic Results
• The channelization works carried out between the 1970s and 1990s:
o Caused a loss of the river’s natural alignment, riverbed, and riparian zones.
o Led to a disconnection between the active channel and the floodplain.
o Resulted in 20 abandoned meanders within the Region of Murcia.
• The current river reach is characterized by:
o A homogeneous and rectilinear morphology.
o Widespread invasion by Arundo donax (giant reed).
o The absence of a functional riparian forest.
4. Fluvial Connectivity Results
• A significant deterioration of fluvial connectivity was identified:
o Longitudinal connectivity: lack of continuous riparian vegetation.
o Lateral connectivity: disconnection between the river channel and the floodplain.
o Vertical connectivity: alteration of subsurface and groundwater flows.
• The recovery of abandoned meanders would:
o Increase habitat diversity.
o Enhance the ecological resilience of the fluvial system.
5. Hydraulic Analysis and Flood Risk Results
• According to the Flood Hazard and Risk Maps (MPRI):
o No significant flood risk exists for return periods of 10 and 50 years.
o The entire intervention area is flood-prone for return periods of 100 and 500 years.
• The project area is included within a Preferential Flow Zone (PFZ).
• A hydraulic study using HEC-RAS was conducted, comparing scenarios:
o Without implementation of the meander restoration.
o With implementation of the meander restoration.
• The results confirm that the proposed intervention:
o Does not increase flood risk upstream or downstream.
o Improves flood attenuation capacity during extreme events.
6. Urban Planning and Legal Compliance Results
• The intervention area is fully compatible with the Plan General de Organización Urbanística (PGOU):
o Classified as a Hydraulic General System and Green/Open Space System.
• The project:
o Is entirely located within the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Complies with the Spanish Water Law and the Regulations of the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Meets fluvial restoration and ecological continuity criteria.
7. Overall Project Outcome
• The proposal:
o Restores a more natural fluvial morphology.
o Enhances ecological connectivity.
o Reduces flood risk through nature-based solutions.
o Demonstrates technical, environmental, urban planning, and legal feasibility.
|Lessons learn=1. The historical channelization of the Segura River, mainly carried out between the 1970s and 1990s, reduced immediate flood risk but resulted in a significant loss of natural fluvial dynamics, ecological connectivity, and floodplain functionality.
2. The disconnection between the current river channel and the abandoned meanders has led to marked environmental degradation, characterized by morphological homogenization, the disappearance of riparian forests, and the spread of invasive species such as Arundo donax.
3. The Meandro Chico del Vivillo area shows a high potential for fluvial restoration, as it is a former river bend located within the Public Hydraulic Domain, with minimal impact on private land and full urban planning compatibility.
4. The recovery of the former meander through channel widening and riparian revegetation will significantly improve longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity of the fluvial system, increasing habitat diversity and enhancing the ecological resilience of the Segura River.
5. The hydraulic studies conducted demonstrate that the proposed intervention does not increase flood risk for the analyzed return periods and contributes to improved flood attenuation during extreme flood events.
6. The intervention complies with current water, land-use planning, and flood risk management regulations, and is aligned with fluvial restoration principles and nature-based solutions.
7. The project represents a strategic and replicable action for the environmental recovery of the Segura River fluvial corridor, providing environmental, social, and landscape benefits, and strengthening institutional cooperation between public administrations and universities.
|Project title=RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)
}}
{{Image gallery}}
{{Image gallery end}}
{{Toggle button}}
{{Toggle content start}}
{{Case study subcatchment}}
{{Site
|Name=Meandro Chico del Vivillo
|WFD water body code=ES070MSPF
|WFD (national) typology=ES070MSPF002080115
|WFD water body name=Segura River
|Pre-project morphology=Artificial channel, Low gradient passively meandering
|Reference morphology=Low gradient passively meandering
|Desired post project morphology=Low gradient passively meandering, Reinforced banks
|Heavily modified water body=Yes
|Site designation=Spain - Parque Periurbano
|Local site designation=Metropolitan Green Belt, Habitats of Community Interest
|Protected species present=Yes
|Invasive species present=Yes
|Species=Arundo donax, Populus alba, Phoenix dactilyfera
|Dominant hydrology=Artificially regulated
|Dominant substrate=Pebble, Silt
|River corridor land use=Orchard, Urban
|Average bankfull channel width category=5 - 10 m
|Avrg bankfull channel width=12.10
|Average bankfull channel depth category=0.5 - 2 m
|Avrg1 bankfull channel depth=1
|Mean discharge category=0.1 - 1.0 m³/s
|Mn discharge=0.3
|Average channel gradient category=Less than 0.001
|Avrg channel gradient=0.0007
}}
{{Project background
|Project started=2025-05-09
|Works started=2025-10-25
|Total cost category=more than 10000 k€
|Total1 cost=1426.461552
|Funding sources=Recovery Transformation and Resilience Plan
}}
{{Motivations
|Specific mitigation=Invasive species, Riparian development
|Hydromorphological quality elements=Flow velocities, Fluvial conectivity, Flood attenuation capacity
|Biological quality elements=Angiosperms, Macrophytes, Macrophytes and/or phytobenthos: Average abundance, Riparian habitat
|Other motivation=Historical channels, Hydraulic heritage of the river reach
}}
{{Measures
|Bank and bed modifications measure=Right bank maintains the existing levee, Left bank turns with the old meander, Current levee elevation is mantained
|Floodplain / River corridor=Habitat restoration, Planting of autochthonous vegetation
|Planform / Channel pattern=Modification of existing defenses, restoration of the old meander
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality elements header}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Freshwater flow regime
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Quantity & dynamics of flow
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Biological quality elements header}}
{{Biological quality element table row
|Element=Macrophytes
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=Yes
}}
{{End table}}
{{Physico-chemical quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Other responses header}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Reed
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Flood risk management
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Monitoring documents}}
{{Monitoring documents end}}
{{Additional Documents}}
{{Additional Documents end}}
{{Additional links and references header}}
{{Additional links and references footer}}
{{Supplementary Information}}
{{Toggle content end}}

Case study:RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)

2025-12-19T09:51:30Z

Ecopatrimonio:

{{Case study status
|Approval status=Draft
}}
{{Location
|Location=37.98043, -1.17378
}}
{{Project overview
|Status=In progress
|Themes=Environmental flows and water resources, Flood risk management, Habitat and biodiversity, Hydromorphology, Land use management - agriculture, Land use management - forestry, Social benefits, Spatial planning, Urban, Water quality
|Country=Spain
|Main contact forename=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact surname=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact id=Ayuntamiento de Murcia
|Contact organisation=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Contact organisation url=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Multi-site=No
|Project summary=The project is part of a joint strategy developed since 2017 by the City Council of Murcia and the Universities of Murcia and Cartagena (UPCT) aimed at the environmental restoration of the Segura River and its former meanders in the western area of the municipality. This global strategy, completed in 2019, defines 26 types of environmental and territorial actions applied to 27 specific river sections, focusing on riverbed restoration, riparian revegetation, agroecological recovery of the huerta, flood risk management, improvement of paths and connectivity, enhancement of hydraulic heritage, and environmental education.

The areas of intervention are classified according to their morphology (large meanders, medium meanders, small bends, fluvial terraces, and connecting areas). Four of these were prioritized due to their social, environmental, and administrative relevance, including the Meandro Chico del Vivillo. These areas allow improvements in the river’s longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity, the recovery of biodiversity, the reduction of flood risk, and the creation of new green spaces close to densely populated urban areas.

The Vivillo Meander project was developed as a preliminary design and received European funding through the Biodiversity Foundation within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan. Its objective is to reverse the negative impacts of river channelization carried out since the 1970s, which straightened the river, eliminated meanders, and disconnected it from its floodplain, leading to a loss of fluvial dynamics and biodiversity.

The proposal is based on contemporary river restoration principles that promote the recovery of natural river geomorphology, reconnection with the floodplain, enhancement of riparian forests, and the creation of diverse habitats, demonstrating that nature-based solutions are more effective and sustainable than traditional channelization approaches for flood management.
|Monitoring surveys and results=1. Strategic and Planning Results
• A global environmental restoration strategy was defined for the Segura River in the western area of the municipality of Murcia, structured into:
o 26 types of actions (9 general actions applicable to the entire proposal and 17 specific actions for defined areas).
o 27 specific intervention areas between La Contraparada and the city of Murcia.
• Four priority preliminary design projects were developed: Rambla de la Ventosa, Meandro Chico del Vivillo, Meandro del Molino de la Rosquilla, and Meandro del Molino de Funes.
2. Administrative and Funding Results
• The Fluvial Restoration Project of the former Segura River channel at the Vivillo Meander was:
o Submitted to the Fundación Biodiversidad grant call (NextGenerationEU).
o Awarded funding of €1,670,158.9 in September 2022.
• The preliminary design was reviewed by the Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura (CHS), which issued technical considerations in June 2023.
• The drafting of the project was commissioned to Urbanizadora Municipal S.A. (URBAMUSA), with technical assistance provided by the Polytechnic University of Cartagena.
3. Environmental Diagnostic Results
• The channelization works carried out between the 1970s and 1990s:
o Caused a loss of the river’s natural alignment, riverbed, and riparian zones.
o Led to a disconnection between the active channel and the floodplain.
o Resulted in 20 abandoned meanders within the Region of Murcia.
• The current river reach is characterized by:
o A homogeneous and rectilinear morphology.
o Widespread invasion by Arundo donax (giant reed).
o The absence of a functional riparian forest.
4. Fluvial Connectivity Results
• A significant deterioration of fluvial connectivity was identified:
o Longitudinal connectivity: lack of continuous riparian vegetation.
o Lateral connectivity: disconnection between the river channel and the floodplain.
o Vertical connectivity: alteration of subsurface and groundwater flows.
• The recovery of abandoned meanders would:
o Increase habitat diversity.
o Enhance the ecological resilience of the fluvial system.
5. Hydraulic Analysis and Flood Risk Results
• According to the Flood Hazard and Risk Maps (MPRI):
o No significant flood risk exists for return periods of 10 and 50 years.
o The entire intervention area is flood-prone for return periods of 100 and 500 years.
• The project area is included within a Preferential Flow Zone (PFZ).
• A hydraulic study using HEC-RAS was conducted, comparing scenarios:
o Without implementation of the meander restoration.
o With implementation of the meander restoration.
• The results confirm that the proposed intervention:
o Does not increase flood risk upstream or downstream.
o Improves flood attenuation capacity during extreme events.
6. Urban Planning and Legal Compliance Results
• The intervention area is fully compatible with the Plan General de Organización Urbanística (PGOU):
o Classified as a Hydraulic General System and Green/Open Space System.
• The project:
o Is entirely located within the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Complies with the Spanish Water Law and the Regulations of the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Meets fluvial restoration and ecological continuity criteria.
7. Overall Project Outcome
• The proposal:
o Restores a more natural fluvial morphology.
o Enhances ecological connectivity.
o Reduces flood risk through nature-based solutions.
o Demonstrates technical, environmental, urban planning, and legal feasibility.
|Lessons learn=1. The historical channelization of the Segura River, mainly carried out between the 1970s and 1990s, reduced immediate flood risk but resulted in a significant loss of natural fluvial dynamics, ecological connectivity, and floodplain functionality.
2. The disconnection between the current river channel and the abandoned meanders has led to marked environmental degradation, characterized by morphological homogenization, the disappearance of riparian forests, and the spread of invasive species such as Arundo donax.
3. The Meandro Chico del Vivillo area shows a high potential for fluvial restoration, as it is a former river bend located within the Public Hydraulic Domain, with minimal impact on private land and full urban planning compatibility.
4. The recovery of the former meander through channel widening and riparian revegetation will significantly improve longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity of the fluvial system, increasing habitat diversity and enhancing the ecological resilience of the Segura River.
5. The hydraulic studies conducted demonstrate that the proposed intervention does not increase flood risk for the analyzed return periods and contributes to improved flood attenuation during extreme flood events.
6. The intervention complies with current water, land-use planning, and flood risk management regulations, and is aligned with fluvial restoration principles and nature-based solutions.
7. The project represents a strategic and replicable action for the environmental recovery of the Segura River fluvial corridor, providing environmental, social, and landscape benefits, and strengthening institutional cooperation between public administrations and universities.
|Project title=RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)
}}
{{Image gallery}}
{{Image gallery end}}
{{Toggle button}}
{{Toggle content start}}
{{Case study subcatchment}}
{{Site
|Name=Meandro Chico del Vivillo
|WFD water body code=ES070MSPF
|WFD (national) typology=ES070MSPF002080115
|WFD water body name=Segura River
|Pre-project morphology=Artificial channel, Low gradient passively meandering
|Reference morphology=Low gradient passively meandering
|Desired post project morphology=Low gradient passively meandering, Reinforced banks
|Heavily modified water body=Yes
|Site designation=Spain - Parque Periurbano
|Local site designation=Metropolitan Green Belt, Habitats of Community Interest
|Protected species present=Yes
|Invasive species present=Yes
|Species=Arundo donax, Populus alba, Phoenix dactilyfera
|Dominant hydrology=Artificially regulated
|Dominant substrate=Pebble, Silt
|River corridor land use=Orchard, Urban
|Average bankfull channel width category=5 - 10 m
|Avrg bankfull channel width=12.10
|Average bankfull channel depth category=0.5 - 2 m
|Avrg1 bankfull channel depth=1
|Mean discharge category=0.1 - 1.0 m³/s
|Mn discharge=0.3
|Average channel gradient category=Less than 0.001
|Avrg channel gradient=0.0007
}}
{{Project background
|Project started=2025-05-09
|Works started=2025-10-25
|Total cost category=more than 10000 k€
|Total1 cost=1426.461552
|Funding sources=Recovery Transformation and Resilience Plan
}}
{{Motivations
|Specific mitigation=Invasive species, Riparian development
|Hydromorphological quality elements=Flow velocities, Fluvial conectivity, Flood attenuation capacity
|Biological quality elements=Angiosperms, Macrophytes, Macrophytes and/or phytobenthos: Average abundance, Riparian habitat
|Other motivation=Historical channels, Hydraulic heritage of the river reach
}}
{{Measures
|Bank and bed modifications measure=Right bank maintains the existing levee, Left bank turns with the old meander, Current levee elevation is mantained
|Floodplain / River corridor=Habitat restoration, Planting of autochthonous vegetation
|Planform / Channel pattern=Modification of existing defenses, restoration of the old meander
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality elements header}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Freshwater flow regime
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Quantity & dynamics of flow
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Biological quality elements header}}
{{Biological quality element table row
|Element=Macrophytes
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=Yes
}}
{{End table}}
{{Physico-chemical quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Other responses header}}
{{Other response table row
|Element=Reed
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Monitoring documents}}
{{Monitoring documents end}}
{{Additional Documents}}
{{Additional Documents end}}
{{Additional links and references header}}
{{Additional links and references footer}}
{{Supplementary Information}}
{{Toggle content end}}

Case study:RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)

2025-12-19T09:25:19Z

Ecopatrimonio:

{{Case study status
|Approval status=Draft
}}
{{Location
|Location=37.98043, -1.17378
}}
{{Project overview
|Status=In progress
|Themes=Environmental flows and water resources, Flood risk management, Habitat and biodiversity, Hydromorphology, Land use management - agriculture, Land use management - forestry, Social benefits, Spatial planning, Urban, Water quality
|Country=Spain
|Main contact forename=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact surname=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact id=Ayuntamiento de Murcia
|Contact organisation=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Contact organisation url=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Multi-site=No
|Project summary=The project is part of a joint strategy developed since 2017 by the City Council of Murcia and the Universities of Murcia and Cartagena (UPCT) aimed at the environmental restoration of the Segura River and its former meanders in the western area of the municipality. This global strategy, completed in 2019, defines 26 types of environmental and territorial actions applied to 27 specific river sections, focusing on riverbed restoration, riparian revegetation, agroecological recovery of the huerta, flood risk management, improvement of paths and connectivity, enhancement of hydraulic heritage, and environmental education.

The areas of intervention are classified according to their morphology (large meanders, medium meanders, small bends, fluvial terraces, and connecting areas). Four of these were prioritized due to their social, environmental, and administrative relevance, including the Meandro Chico del Vivillo. These areas allow improvements in the river’s longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity, the recovery of biodiversity, the reduction of flood risk, and the creation of new green spaces close to densely populated urban areas.

The Vivillo Meander project was developed as a preliminary design and received European funding through the Biodiversity Foundation within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan. Its objective is to reverse the negative impacts of river channelization carried out since the 1970s, which straightened the river, eliminated meanders, and disconnected it from its floodplain, leading to a loss of fluvial dynamics and biodiversity.

The proposal is based on contemporary river restoration principles that promote the recovery of natural river geomorphology, reconnection with the floodplain, enhancement of riparian forests, and the creation of diverse habitats, demonstrating that nature-based solutions are more effective and sustainable than traditional channelization approaches for flood management.
|Monitoring surveys and results=1. Strategic and Planning Results
• A global environmental restoration strategy was defined for the Segura River in the western area of the municipality of Murcia, structured into:
o 26 types of actions (9 general actions applicable to the entire proposal and 17 specific actions for defined areas).
o 27 specific intervention areas between La Contraparada and the city of Murcia.
• Four priority preliminary design projects were developed: Rambla de la Ventosa, Meandro Chico del Vivillo, Meandro del Molino de la Rosquilla, and Meandro del Molino de Funes.
2. Administrative and Funding Results
• The Fluvial Restoration Project of the former Segura River channel at the Vivillo Meander was:
o Submitted to the Fundación Biodiversidad grant call (NextGenerationEU).
o Awarded funding of €1,670,158.9 in September 2022.
• The preliminary design was reviewed by the Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura (CHS), which issued technical considerations in June 2023.
• The drafting of the project was commissioned to Urbanizadora Municipal S.A. (URBAMUSA), with technical assistance provided by the Polytechnic University of Cartagena.
3. Environmental Diagnostic Results
• The channelization works carried out between the 1970s and 1990s:
o Caused a loss of the river’s natural alignment, riverbed, and riparian zones.
o Led to a disconnection between the active channel and the floodplain.
o Resulted in 20 abandoned meanders within the Region of Murcia.
• The current river reach is characterized by:
o A homogeneous and rectilinear morphology.
o Widespread invasion by Arundo donax (giant reed).
o The absence of a functional riparian forest.
4. Fluvial Connectivity Results
• A significant deterioration of fluvial connectivity was identified:
o Longitudinal connectivity: lack of continuous riparian vegetation.
o Lateral connectivity: disconnection between the river channel and the floodplain.
o Vertical connectivity: alteration of subsurface and groundwater flows.
• The recovery of abandoned meanders would:
o Increase habitat diversity.
o Enhance the ecological resilience of the fluvial system.
5. Hydraulic Analysis and Flood Risk Results
• According to the Flood Hazard and Risk Maps (MPRI):
o No significant flood risk exists for return periods of 10 and 50 years.
o The entire intervention area is flood-prone for return periods of 100 and 500 years.
• The project area is included within a Preferential Flow Zone (PFZ).
• A hydraulic study using HEC-RAS was conducted, comparing scenarios:
o Without implementation of the meander restoration.
o With implementation of the meander restoration.
• The results confirm that the proposed intervention:
o Does not increase flood risk upstream or downstream.
o Improves flood attenuation capacity during extreme events.
6. Urban Planning and Legal Compliance Results
• The intervention area is fully compatible with the Plan General de Organización Urbanística (PGOU):
o Classified as a Hydraulic General System and Green/Open Space System.
• The project:
o Is entirely located within the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Complies with the Spanish Water Law and the Regulations of the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Meets fluvial restoration and ecological continuity criteria.
7. Overall Project Outcome
• The proposal:
o Restores a more natural fluvial morphology.
o Enhances ecological connectivity.
o Reduces flood risk through nature-based solutions.
o Demonstrates technical, environmental, urban planning, and legal feasibility.
|Lessons learn=1. The historical channelization of the Segura River, mainly carried out between the 1970s and 1990s, reduced immediate flood risk but resulted in a significant loss of natural fluvial dynamics, ecological connectivity, and floodplain functionality.
2. The disconnection between the current river channel and the abandoned meanders has led to marked environmental degradation, characterized by morphological homogenization, the disappearance of riparian forests, and the spread of invasive species such as Arundo donax.
3. The Meandro Chico del Vivillo area shows a high potential for fluvial restoration, as it is a former river bend located within the Public Hydraulic Domain, with minimal impact on private land and full urban planning compatibility.
4. The recovery of the former meander through channel widening and riparian revegetation will significantly improve longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity of the fluvial system, increasing habitat diversity and enhancing the ecological resilience of the Segura River.
5. The hydraulic studies conducted demonstrate that the proposed intervention does not increase flood risk for the analyzed return periods and contributes to improved flood attenuation during extreme flood events.
6. The intervention complies with current water, land-use planning, and flood risk management regulations, and is aligned with fluvial restoration principles and nature-based solutions.
7. The project represents a strategic and replicable action for the environmental recovery of the Segura River fluvial corridor, providing environmental, social, and landscape benefits, and strengthening institutional cooperation between public administrations and universities.
|Project title=RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)
}}
{{Image gallery}}
{{Image gallery end}}
{{Toggle button}}
{{Toggle content start}}
{{Case study subcatchment}}
{{Site
|Name=Meandro Chico del Vivillo
|WFD water body code=ES070MSPF
|WFD (national) typology=ES070MSPF002080115
|WFD water body name=Segura River
|Pre-project morphology=Artificial channel, Low gradient passively meandering
|Reference morphology=Low gradient passively meandering
|Desired post project morphology=Low gradient passively meandering, Reinforced banks
|Heavily modified water body=Yes
|Site designation=Spain - Parque Periurbano
|Local site designation=Metropolitan Green Belt, Habitats of Community Interest
|Protected species present=Yes
|Invasive species present=Yes
|Species=Arundo donax, Populus alba, Phoenix dactilyfera
|Dominant hydrology=Artificially regulated
|Dominant substrate=Pebble, Silt
|River corridor land use=Orchard, Urban
|Average bankfull channel width category=5 - 10 m
|Avrg bankfull channel width=12.10
|Average bankfull channel depth category=0.5 - 2 m
|Avrg1 bankfull channel depth=1
|Mean discharge category=0.1 - 1.0 m³/s
|Mn discharge=0.3
|Average channel gradient category=Less than 0.001
|Avrg channel gradient=0.0007
}}
{{Project background
|Project started=2025-05-09
|Works started=2025-10-25
|Total cost category=more than 10000 k€
|Total1 cost=1426.461552
|Funding sources=Recovery Transformation and Resilience Plan
}}
{{Motivations
|Specific mitigation=Invasive species, Riparian development
|Hydromorphological quality elements=Flow velocities, Fluvial conectivity, Flood attenuation capacity
|Biological quality elements=Angiosperms, Macrophytes, Macrophytes and/or phytobenthos: Average abundance, Riparian habitat
|Other motivation=Historical channels, Hydraulic heritage of the river reach
}}
{{Measures
|Bank and bed modifications measure=Right bank maintains the existing levee, Left bank turns with the old meander, Current levee elevation is mantained
|Floodplain / River corridor=Habitat restoration, Planting of autochthonous vegetation
|Planform / Channel pattern=Modification of existing defenses, restoration of the old meander
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality elements header}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Freshwater flow regime
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Quantity & dynamics of flow
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Biological quality elements header}}
{{Biological quality element table row
|Element=Macrophytes
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=Yes
}}
{{End table}}
{{Physico-chemical quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Other responses header}}
{{End table}}
{{Monitoring documents}}
{{Monitoring documents end}}
{{Additional Documents}}
{{Additional Documents end}}
{{Additional links and references header}}
{{Additional links and references footer}}
{{Supplementary Information}}
{{Toggle content end}}

Case study:RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)

2025-12-19T09:20:37Z

Ecopatrimonio:

{{Case study status
|Approval status=Draft
}}
{{Location
|Location=37.98043, -1.17378
}}
{{Project overview
|Status=In progress
|Themes=Environmental flows and water resources, Flood risk management, Habitat and biodiversity, Hydromorphology, Land use management - agriculture, Land use management - forestry, Social benefits, Spatial planning, Urban, Water quality
|Country=Spain
|Main contact forename=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact surname=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact id=Ayuntamiento de Murcia
|Contact organisation=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Contact organisation url=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Multi-site=No
|Project summary=The project is part of a joint strategy developed since 2017 by the City Council of Murcia and the Universities of Murcia and Cartagena (UPCT) aimed at the environmental restoration of the Segura River and its former meanders in the western area of the municipality. This global strategy, completed in 2019, defines 26 types of environmental and territorial actions applied to 27 specific river sections, focusing on riverbed restoration, riparian revegetation, agroecological recovery of the huerta, flood risk management, improvement of paths and connectivity, enhancement of hydraulic heritage, and environmental education.

The areas of intervention are classified according to their morphology (large meanders, medium meanders, small bends, fluvial terraces, and connecting areas). Four of these were prioritized due to their social, environmental, and administrative relevance, including the Meandro Chico del Vivillo. These areas allow improvements in the river’s longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity, the recovery of biodiversity, the reduction of flood risk, and the creation of new green spaces close to densely populated urban areas.

The Vivillo Meander project was developed as a preliminary design and received European funding through the Biodiversity Foundation within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan. Its objective is to reverse the negative impacts of river channelization carried out since the 1970s, which straightened the river, eliminated meanders, and disconnected it from its floodplain, leading to a loss of fluvial dynamics and biodiversity.

The proposal is based on contemporary river restoration principles that promote the recovery of natural river geomorphology, reconnection with the floodplain, enhancement of riparian forests, and the creation of diverse habitats, demonstrating that nature-based solutions are more effective and sustainable than traditional channelization approaches for flood management.
|Monitoring surveys and results=1. Strategic and Planning Results
• A global environmental restoration strategy was defined for the Segura River in the western area of the municipality of Murcia, structured into:
o 26 types of actions (9 general actions applicable to the entire proposal and 17 specific actions for defined areas).
o 27 specific intervention areas between La Contraparada and the city of Murcia.
• Four priority preliminary design projects were developed: Rambla de la Ventosa, Meandro Chico del Vivillo, Meandro del Molino de la Rosquilla, and Meandro del Molino de Funes.
2. Administrative and Funding Results
• The Fluvial Restoration Project of the former Segura River channel at the Vivillo Meander was:
o Submitted to the Fundación Biodiversidad grant call (NextGenerationEU).
o Awarded funding of €1,670,158.9 in September 2022.
• The preliminary design was reviewed by the Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura (CHS), which issued technical considerations in June 2023.
• The drafting of the project was commissioned to Urbanizadora Municipal S.A. (URBAMUSA), with technical assistance provided by the Polytechnic University of Cartagena.
3. Environmental Diagnostic Results
• The channelization works carried out between the 1970s and 1990s:
o Caused a loss of the river’s natural alignment, riverbed, and riparian zones.
o Led to a disconnection between the active channel and the floodplain.
o Resulted in 20 abandoned meanders within the Region of Murcia.
• The current river reach is characterized by:
o A homogeneous and rectilinear morphology.
o Widespread invasion by Arundo donax (giant reed).
o The absence of a functional riparian forest.
4. Fluvial Connectivity Results
• A significant deterioration of fluvial connectivity was identified:
o Longitudinal connectivity: lack of continuous riparian vegetation.
o Lateral connectivity: disconnection between the river channel and the floodplain.
o Vertical connectivity: alteration of subsurface and groundwater flows.
• The recovery of abandoned meanders would:
o Increase habitat diversity.
o Enhance the ecological resilience of the fluvial system.
5. Hydraulic Analysis and Flood Risk Results
• According to the Flood Hazard and Risk Maps (MPRI):
o No significant flood risk exists for return periods of 10 and 50 years.
o The entire intervention area is flood-prone for return periods of 100 and 500 years.
• The project area is included within a Preferential Flow Zone (PFZ).
• A hydraulic study using HEC-RAS was conducted, comparing scenarios:
o Without implementation of the meander restoration.
o With implementation of the meander restoration.
• The results confirm that the proposed intervention:
o Does not increase flood risk upstream or downstream.
o Improves flood attenuation capacity during extreme events.
6. Urban Planning and Legal Compliance Results
• The intervention area is fully compatible with the Plan General de Organización Urbanística (PGOU):
o Classified as a Hydraulic General System and Green/Open Space System.
• The project:
o Is entirely located within the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Complies with the Spanish Water Law and the Regulations of the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Meets fluvial restoration and ecological continuity criteria.
7. Overall Project Outcome
• The proposal:
o Restores a more natural fluvial morphology.
o Enhances ecological connectivity.
o Reduces flood risk through nature-based solutions.
o Demonstrates technical, environmental, urban planning, and legal feasibility.
|Lessons learn=1. The historical channelization of the Segura River, mainly carried out between the 1970s and 1990s, reduced immediate flood risk but resulted in a significant loss of natural fluvial dynamics, ecological connectivity, and floodplain functionality.
2. The disconnection between the current river channel and the abandoned meanders has led to marked environmental degradation, characterized by morphological homogenization, the disappearance of riparian forests, and the spread of invasive species such as Arundo donax.
3. The Meandro Chico del Vivillo area shows a high potential for fluvial restoration, as it is a former river bend located within the Public Hydraulic Domain, with minimal impact on private land and full urban planning compatibility.
4. The recovery of the former meander through channel widening and riparian revegetation will significantly improve longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity of the fluvial system, increasing habitat diversity and enhancing the ecological resilience of the Segura River.
5. The hydraulic studies conducted demonstrate that the proposed intervention does not increase flood risk for the analyzed return periods and contributes to improved flood attenuation during extreme flood events.
6. The intervention complies with current water, land-use planning, and flood risk management regulations, and is aligned with fluvial restoration principles and nature-based solutions.
7. The project represents a strategic and replicable action for the environmental recovery of the Segura River fluvial corridor, providing environmental, social, and landscape benefits, and strengthening institutional cooperation between public administrations and universities.
|Project title=RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)
}}
{{Image gallery}}
{{Image gallery end}}
{{Toggle button}}
{{Toggle content start}}
{{Case study subcatchment}}
{{Site
|Name=Meandro Chico del Vivillo
|WFD water body code=ES070MSPF
|WFD (national) typology=ES070MSPF002080115
|WFD water body name=Segura River
|Pre-project morphology=Artificial channel, Low gradient passively meandering
|Reference morphology=Low gradient passively meandering
|Desired post project morphology=Low gradient passively meandering, Reinforced banks
|Heavily modified water body=Yes
|Site designation=Spain - Parque Periurbano
|Local site designation=Metropolitan Green Belt, Habitats of Community Interest
|Protected species present=Yes
|Invasive species present=Yes
|Species=Arundo donax, Populus alba, Phoenix dactilyfera
|Dominant hydrology=Artificially regulated
|Dominant substrate=Pebble, Silt
|River corridor land use=Orchard, Urban
|Average bankfull channel width category=5 - 10 m
|Avrg bankfull channel width=12.10
|Average bankfull channel depth category=0.5 - 2 m
|Avrg1 bankfull channel depth=1
|Mean discharge category=0.1 - 1.0 m³/s
|Mn discharge=0.3
|Average channel gradient category=Less than 0.001
|Avrg channel gradient=0.0007
}}
{{Project background
|Project started=2025-05-09
|Works started=2025-10-25
|Total cost category=more than 10000 k€
|Total1 cost=1426.461552
|Funding sources=Recovery Transformation and Resilience Plan
}}
{{Motivations
|Specific mitigation=Invasive species, Riparian development
|Hydromorphological quality elements=Flow velocities, Fluvial conectivity, Flood attenuation capacity
|Biological quality elements=Angiosperms, Macrophytes, Macrophytes and/or phytobenthos: Average abundance, Riparian habitat
|Other motivation=Historical channels, Hydraulic heritage of the river reach
}}
{{Measures
|Bank and bed modifications measure=Right bank maintains the existing levee, Left bank turns with the old meander, Current levee elevation is mantained
|Floodplain / River corridor=Habitat restoration, Planting of autochthonous vegetation
|Planform / Channel pattern=Modification of existing defenses, restoration of the old meander
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality elements header}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Element=Freshwater flow regime
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Biological quality elements header}}
{{Biological quality element table row
|Element=Macrophytes
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=Yes
}}
{{End table}}
{{Physico-chemical quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Other responses header}}
{{End table}}
{{Monitoring documents}}
{{Monitoring documents end}}
{{Additional Documents}}
{{Additional Documents end}}
{{Additional links and references header}}
{{Additional links and references footer}}
{{Supplementary Information}}
{{Toggle content end}}

Case study:RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)

2025-12-19T09:12:04Z

Ecopatrimonio:

{{Case study status
|Approval status=Draft
}}
{{Location
|Location=37.98043, -1.17378
}}
{{Project overview
|Status=In progress
|Themes=Environmental flows and water resources, Flood risk management, Habitat and biodiversity, Hydromorphology, Land use management - agriculture, Land use management - forestry, Social benefits, Spatial planning, Urban, Water quality
|Country=Spain
|Main contact forename=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact surname=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact id=Ayuntamiento de Murcia
|Contact organisation=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Contact organisation url=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Multi-site=No
|Project summary=The project is part of a joint strategy developed since 2017 by the City Council of Murcia and the Universities of Murcia and Cartagena (UPCT) aimed at the environmental restoration of the Segura River and its former meanders in the western area of the municipality. This global strategy, completed in 2019, defines 26 types of environmental and territorial actions applied to 27 specific river sections, focusing on riverbed restoration, riparian revegetation, agroecological recovery of the huerta, flood risk management, improvement of paths and connectivity, enhancement of hydraulic heritage, and environmental education.

The areas of intervention are classified according to their morphology (large meanders, medium meanders, small bends, fluvial terraces, and connecting areas). Four of these were prioritized due to their social, environmental, and administrative relevance, including the Meandro Chico del Vivillo. These areas allow improvements in the river’s longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity, the recovery of biodiversity, the reduction of flood risk, and the creation of new green spaces close to densely populated urban areas.

The Vivillo Meander project was developed as a preliminary design and received European funding through the Biodiversity Foundation within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan. Its objective is to reverse the negative impacts of river channelization carried out since the 1970s, which straightened the river, eliminated meanders, and disconnected it from its floodplain, leading to a loss of fluvial dynamics and biodiversity.

The proposal is based on contemporary river restoration principles that promote the recovery of natural river geomorphology, reconnection with the floodplain, enhancement of riparian forests, and the creation of diverse habitats, demonstrating that nature-based solutions are more effective and sustainable than traditional channelization approaches for flood management.
|Monitoring surveys and results=1. Strategic and Planning Results
• A global environmental restoration strategy was defined for the Segura River in the western area of the municipality of Murcia, structured into:
o 26 types of actions (9 general actions applicable to the entire proposal and 17 specific actions for defined areas).
o 27 specific intervention areas between La Contraparada and the city of Murcia.
• Four priority preliminary design projects were developed: Rambla de la Ventosa, Meandro Chico del Vivillo, Meandro del Molino de la Rosquilla, and Meandro del Molino de Funes.
2. Administrative and Funding Results
• The Fluvial Restoration Project of the former Segura River channel at the Vivillo Meander was:
o Submitted to the Fundación Biodiversidad grant call (NextGenerationEU).
o Awarded funding of €1,670,158.9 in September 2022.
• The preliminary design was reviewed by the Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura (CHS), which issued technical considerations in June 2023.
• The drafting of the project was commissioned to Urbanizadora Municipal S.A. (URBAMUSA), with technical assistance provided by the Polytechnic University of Cartagena.
3. Environmental Diagnostic Results
• The channelization works carried out between the 1970s and 1990s:
o Caused a loss of the river’s natural alignment, riverbed, and riparian zones.
o Led to a disconnection between the active channel and the floodplain.
o Resulted in 20 abandoned meanders within the Region of Murcia.
• The current river reach is characterized by:
o A homogeneous and rectilinear morphology.
o Widespread invasion by Arundo donax (giant reed).
o The absence of a functional riparian forest.
4. Fluvial Connectivity Results
• A significant deterioration of fluvial connectivity was identified:
o Longitudinal connectivity: lack of continuous riparian vegetation.
o Lateral connectivity: disconnection between the river channel and the floodplain.
o Vertical connectivity: alteration of subsurface and groundwater flows.
• The recovery of abandoned meanders would:
o Increase habitat diversity.
o Enhance the ecological resilience of the fluvial system.
5. Hydraulic Analysis and Flood Risk Results
• According to the Flood Hazard and Risk Maps (MPRI):
o No significant flood risk exists for return periods of 10 and 50 years.
o The entire intervention area is flood-prone for return periods of 100 and 500 years.
• The project area is included within a Preferential Flow Zone (PFZ).
• A hydraulic study using HEC-RAS was conducted, comparing scenarios:
o Without implementation of the meander restoration.
o With implementation of the meander restoration.
• The results confirm that the proposed intervention:
o Does not increase flood risk upstream or downstream.
o Improves flood attenuation capacity during extreme events.
6. Urban Planning and Legal Compliance Results
• The intervention area is fully compatible with the Plan General de Organización Urbanística (PGOU):
o Classified as a Hydraulic General System and Green/Open Space System.
• The project:
o Is entirely located within the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Complies with the Spanish Water Law and the Regulations of the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Meets fluvial restoration and ecological continuity criteria.
7. Overall Project Outcome
• The proposal:
o Restores a more natural fluvial morphology.
o Enhances ecological connectivity.
o Reduces flood risk through nature-based solutions.
o Demonstrates technical, environmental, urban planning, and legal feasibility.
|Lessons learn=1. The historical channelization of the Segura River, mainly carried out between the 1970s and 1990s, reduced immediate flood risk but resulted in a significant loss of natural fluvial dynamics, ecological connectivity, and floodplain functionality.
2. The disconnection between the current river channel and the abandoned meanders has led to marked environmental degradation, characterized by morphological homogenization, the disappearance of riparian forests, and the spread of invasive species such as Arundo donax.
3. The Meandro Chico del Vivillo area shows a high potential for fluvial restoration, as it is a former river bend located within the Public Hydraulic Domain, with minimal impact on private land and full urban planning compatibility.
4. The recovery of the former meander through channel widening and riparian revegetation will significantly improve longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity of the fluvial system, increasing habitat diversity and enhancing the ecological resilience of the Segura River.
5. The hydraulic studies conducted demonstrate that the proposed intervention does not increase flood risk for the analyzed return periods and contributes to improved flood attenuation during extreme flood events.
6. The intervention complies with current water, land-use planning, and flood risk management regulations, and is aligned with fluvial restoration principles and nature-based solutions.
7. The project represents a strategic and replicable action for the environmental recovery of the Segura River fluvial corridor, providing environmental, social, and landscape benefits, and strengthening institutional cooperation between public administrations and universities.
|Project title=RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)
}}
{{Image gallery}}
{{Image gallery end}}
{{Toggle button}}
{{Toggle content start}}
{{Case study subcatchment}}
{{Site
|Name=Meandro Chico del Vivillo
|WFD water body code=ES070MSPF
|WFD (national) typology=ES070MSPF002080115
|WFD water body name=Segura River
|Pre-project morphology=Artificial channel, Low gradient passively meandering
|Reference morphology=Low gradient passively meandering
|Desired post project morphology=Low gradient passively meandering, Reinforced banks
|Heavily modified water body=Yes
|Site designation=Spain - Parque Periurbano
|Local site designation=Metropolitan Green Belt, Habitats of Community Interest
|Protected species present=Yes
|Invasive species present=Yes
|Species=Arundo donax, Populus alba, Phoenix dactilyfera
|Dominant hydrology=Artificially regulated
|Dominant substrate=Pebble, Silt
|River corridor land use=Orchard, Urban
|Average bankfull channel width category=5 - 10 m
|Avrg bankfull channel width=12.10
|Average bankfull channel depth category=0.5 - 2 m
|Avrg1 bankfull channel depth=1
|Mean discharge category=0.1 - 1.0 m³/s
|Mn discharge=0.3
|Average channel gradient category=Less than 0.001
|Avrg channel gradient=0.0007
}}
{{Project background
|Project started=2025-05-09
|Works started=2025-10-25
|Total cost category=more than 10000 k€
|Total1 cost=1426.461552
|Funding sources=Recovery Transformation and Resilience Plan
}}
{{Motivations
|Specific mitigation=Invasive species, Riparian development
|Hydromorphological quality elements=Flow velocities, Fluvial conectivity, Flood attenuation capacity
|Biological quality elements=Angiosperms, Macrophytes, Macrophytes and/or phytobenthos: Average abundance, Riparian habitat
|Other motivation=Historical channels, Hydraulic heritage of the river reach
}}
{{Measures
|Bank and bed modifications measure=Right bank maintains the existing levee, Left bank turns with the old meander, Current levee elevation is mantained
|Floodplain / River corridor=Habitat restoration, Planting of autochthonous vegetation
|Planform / Channel pattern=Modification of existing defenses, restoration of the old meander
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Biological quality elements header}}
{{Biological quality element table row
|Element=Macrophytes
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=Yes
}}
{{End table}}
{{Physico-chemical quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Other responses header}}
{{End table}}
{{Monitoring documents}}
{{Monitoring documents end}}
{{Additional Documents}}
{{Additional Documents end}}
{{Additional links and references header}}
{{Additional links and references footer}}
{{Supplementary Information}}
{{Toggle content end}}

Case study:RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)

2025-12-19T09:09:40Z

Ecopatrimonio:

{{Case study status
|Approval status=Draft
}}
{{Location
|Location=37.98043, -1.17378
}}
{{Project overview
|Status=In progress
|Themes=Environmental flows and water resources, Flood risk management, Habitat and biodiversity, Hydromorphology, Land use management - agriculture, Land use management - forestry, Social benefits, Spatial planning, Urban, Water quality
|Country=Spain
|Main contact forename=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact surname=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact id=Ayuntamiento de Murcia
|Contact organisation=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Contact organisation url=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Multi-site=No
|Project summary=The project is part of a joint strategy developed since 2017 by the City Council of Murcia and the Universities of Murcia and Cartagena (UPCT) aimed at the environmental restoration of the Segura River and its former meanders in the western area of the municipality. This global strategy, completed in 2019, defines 26 types of environmental and territorial actions applied to 27 specific river sections, focusing on riverbed restoration, riparian revegetation, agroecological recovery of the huerta, flood risk management, improvement of paths and connectivity, enhancement of hydraulic heritage, and environmental education.

The areas of intervention are classified according to their morphology (large meanders, medium meanders, small bends, fluvial terraces, and connecting areas). Four of these were prioritized due to their social, environmental, and administrative relevance, including the Meandro Chico del Vivillo. These areas allow improvements in the river’s longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity, the recovery of biodiversity, the reduction of flood risk, and the creation of new green spaces close to densely populated urban areas.

The Vivillo Meander project was developed as a preliminary design and received European funding through the Biodiversity Foundation within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan. Its objective is to reverse the negative impacts of river channelization carried out since the 1970s, which straightened the river, eliminated meanders, and disconnected it from its floodplain, leading to a loss of fluvial dynamics and biodiversity.

The proposal is based on contemporary river restoration principles that promote the recovery of natural river geomorphology, reconnection with the floodplain, enhancement of riparian forests, and the creation of diverse habitats, demonstrating that nature-based solutions are more effective and sustainable than traditional channelization approaches for flood management.
|Monitoring surveys and results=1. Strategic and Planning Results
• A global environmental restoration strategy was defined for the Segura River in the western area of the municipality of Murcia, structured into:
o 26 types of actions (9 general actions applicable to the entire proposal and 17 specific actions for defined areas).
o 27 specific intervention areas between La Contraparada and the city of Murcia.
• Four priority preliminary design projects were developed: Rambla de la Ventosa, Meandro Chico del Vivillo, Meandro del Molino de la Rosquilla, and Meandro del Molino de Funes.
2. Administrative and Funding Results
• The Fluvial Restoration Project of the former Segura River channel at the Vivillo Meander was:
o Submitted to the Fundación Biodiversidad grant call (NextGenerationEU).
o Awarded funding of €1,670,158.9 in September 2022.
• The preliminary design was reviewed by the Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura (CHS), which issued technical considerations in June 2023.
• The drafting of the project was commissioned to Urbanizadora Municipal S.A. (URBAMUSA), with technical assistance provided by the Polytechnic University of Cartagena.
3. Environmental Diagnostic Results
• The channelization works carried out between the 1970s and 1990s:
o Caused a loss of the river’s natural alignment, riverbed, and riparian zones.
o Led to a disconnection between the active channel and the floodplain.
o Resulted in 20 abandoned meanders within the Region of Murcia.
• The current river reach is characterized by:
o A homogeneous and rectilinear morphology.
o Widespread invasion by Arundo donax (giant reed).
o The absence of a functional riparian forest.
4. Fluvial Connectivity Results
• A significant deterioration of fluvial connectivity was identified:
o Longitudinal connectivity: lack of continuous riparian vegetation.
o Lateral connectivity: disconnection between the river channel and the floodplain.
o Vertical connectivity: alteration of subsurface and groundwater flows.
• The recovery of abandoned meanders would:
o Increase habitat diversity.
o Enhance the ecological resilience of the fluvial system.
5. Hydraulic Analysis and Flood Risk Results
• According to the Flood Hazard and Risk Maps (MPRI):
o No significant flood risk exists for return periods of 10 and 50 years.
o The entire intervention area is flood-prone for return periods of 100 and 500 years.
• The project area is included within a Preferential Flow Zone (PFZ).
• A hydraulic study using HEC-RAS was conducted, comparing scenarios:
o Without implementation of the meander restoration.
o With implementation of the meander restoration.
• The results confirm that the proposed intervention:
o Does not increase flood risk upstream or downstream.
o Improves flood attenuation capacity during extreme events.
6. Urban Planning and Legal Compliance Results
• The intervention area is fully compatible with the Plan General de Organización Urbanística (PGOU):
o Classified as a Hydraulic General System and Green/Open Space System.
• The project:
o Is entirely located within the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Complies with the Spanish Water Law and the Regulations of the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Meets fluvial restoration and ecological continuity criteria.
7. Overall Project Outcome
• The proposal:
o Restores a more natural fluvial morphology.
o Enhances ecological connectivity.
o Reduces flood risk through nature-based solutions.
o Demonstrates technical, environmental, urban planning, and legal feasibility.
|Lessons learn=1. The historical channelization of the Segura River, mainly carried out between the 1970s and 1990s, reduced immediate flood risk but resulted in a significant loss of natural fluvial dynamics, ecological connectivity, and floodplain functionality.
2. The disconnection between the current river channel and the abandoned meanders has led to marked environmental degradation, characterized by morphological homogenization, the disappearance of riparian forests, and the spread of invasive species such as Arundo donax.
3. The Meandro Chico del Vivillo area shows a high potential for fluvial restoration, as it is a former river bend located within the Public Hydraulic Domain, with minimal impact on private land and full urban planning compatibility.
4. The recovery of the former meander through channel widening and riparian revegetation will significantly improve longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity of the fluvial system, increasing habitat diversity and enhancing the ecological resilience of the Segura River.
5. The hydraulic studies conducted demonstrate that the proposed intervention does not increase flood risk for the analyzed return periods and contributes to improved flood attenuation during extreme flood events.
6. The intervention complies with current water, land-use planning, and flood risk management regulations, and is aligned with fluvial restoration principles and nature-based solutions.
7. The project represents a strategic and replicable action for the environmental recovery of the Segura River fluvial corridor, providing environmental, social, and landscape benefits, and strengthening institutional cooperation between public administrations and universities.
|Project title=RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)
}}
{{Image gallery}}
{{Image gallery end}}
{{Toggle button}}
{{Toggle content start}}
{{Case study subcatchment}}
{{Site
|Name=Meandro Chico del Vivillo
|WFD water body code=ES070MSPF
|WFD (national) typology=ES070MSPF002080115
|WFD water body name=Segura River
|Pre-project morphology=Artificial channel, Low gradient passively meandering
|Reference morphology=Low gradient passively meandering
|Desired post project morphology=Low gradient passively meandering, Reinforced banks
|Heavily modified water body=Yes
|Site designation=Spain - Parque Periurbano
|Local site designation=Metropolitan Green Belt, Habitats of Community Interest
|Protected species present=Yes
|Invasive species present=Yes
|Species=Arundo donax, Populus alba, Phoenix dactilyfera
|Dominant hydrology=Artificially regulated
|Dominant substrate=Pebble, Silt
|River corridor land use=Orchard, Urban
|Average bankfull channel width category=5 - 10 m
|Avrg bankfull channel width=12.10
|Average bankfull channel depth category=0.5 - 2 m
|Avrg1 bankfull channel depth=1
|Mean discharge category=0.1 - 1.0 m³/s
|Mn discharge=0.3
|Average channel gradient category=Less than 0.001
|Avrg channel gradient=0.0007
}}
{{Project background
|Project started=2025-05-09
|Works started=2025-10-25
|Total cost category=more than 10000 k€
|Total1 cost=1426.461552
|Funding sources=Recovery Transformation and Resilience Plan
}}
{{Motivations
|Specific mitigation=Invasive species, Riparian development
|Hydromorphological quality elements=Flow velocities, Fluvial conectivity, Flood attenuation capacity
|Biological quality elements=Angiosperms, Macrophytes, Macrophytes and/or phytobenthos: Average abundance, Riparian habitat
|Other motivation=Historical channels, Hydraulic heritage of the river reach
}}
{{Measures
|Bank and bed modifications measure=Right bank maintains the existing levee, Left bank turns with the old meander, Current levee elevation is mantained
|Floodplain / River corridor=Habitat restoration, Planting of autochthonous vegetation
|Planform / Channel pattern=Modification of existing defenses, restoration of the old meander
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality elements header}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Monitored before=No
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=No
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Biological quality elements header}}
{{Biological quality element table row
|Element=Macrophytes
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=Yes
|Control site used=Yes
}}
{{End table}}
{{Physico-chemical quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Other responses header}}
{{End table}}
{{Monitoring documents}}
{{Monitoring documents end}}
{{Additional Documents}}
{{Additional Documents end}}
{{Additional links and references header}}
{{Additional links and references footer}}
{{Supplementary Information}}
{{Toggle content end}}

Case study:RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)

2025-12-19T09:08:56Z

Ecopatrimonio:

{{Case study status
|Approval status=Draft
}}
{{Location
|Location=37.98043, -1.17378
}}
{{Project overview
|Status=In progress
|Themes=Environmental flows and water resources, Flood risk management, Habitat and biodiversity, Hydromorphology, Land use management - agriculture, Land use management - forestry, Social benefits, Spatial planning, Urban, Water quality
|Country=Spain
|Main contact forename=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact surname=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact id=Ayuntamiento de Murcia
|Contact organisation=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Contact organisation url=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Multi-site=No
|Project summary=The project is part of a joint strategy developed since 2017 by the City Council of Murcia and the Universities of Murcia and Cartagena (UPCT) aimed at the environmental restoration of the Segura River and its former meanders in the western area of the municipality. This global strategy, completed in 2019, defines 26 types of environmental and territorial actions applied to 27 specific river sections, focusing on riverbed restoration, riparian revegetation, agroecological recovery of the huerta, flood risk management, improvement of paths and connectivity, enhancement of hydraulic heritage, and environmental education.

The areas of intervention are classified according to their morphology (large meanders, medium meanders, small bends, fluvial terraces, and connecting areas). Four of these were prioritized due to their social, environmental, and administrative relevance, including the Meandro Chico del Vivillo. These areas allow improvements in the river’s longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity, the recovery of biodiversity, the reduction of flood risk, and the creation of new green spaces close to densely populated urban areas.

The Vivillo Meander project was developed as a preliminary design and received European funding through the Biodiversity Foundation within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan. Its objective is to reverse the negative impacts of river channelization carried out since the 1970s, which straightened the river, eliminated meanders, and disconnected it from its floodplain, leading to a loss of fluvial dynamics and biodiversity.

The proposal is based on contemporary river restoration principles that promote the recovery of natural river geomorphology, reconnection with the floodplain, enhancement of riparian forests, and the creation of diverse habitats, demonstrating that nature-based solutions are more effective and sustainable than traditional channelization approaches for flood management.
|Monitoring surveys and results=1. Strategic and Planning Results
• A global environmental restoration strategy was defined for the Segura River in the western area of the municipality of Murcia, structured into:
o 26 types of actions (9 general actions applicable to the entire proposal and 17 specific actions for defined areas).
o 27 specific intervention areas between La Contraparada and the city of Murcia.
• Four priority preliminary design projects were developed: Rambla de la Ventosa, Meandro Chico del Vivillo, Meandro del Molino de la Rosquilla, and Meandro del Molino de Funes.
2. Administrative and Funding Results
• The Fluvial Restoration Project of the former Segura River channel at the Vivillo Meander was:
o Submitted to the Fundación Biodiversidad grant call (NextGenerationEU).
o Awarded funding of €1,670,158.9 in September 2022.
• The preliminary design was reviewed by the Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura (CHS), which issued technical considerations in June 2023.
• The drafting of the project was commissioned to Urbanizadora Municipal S.A. (URBAMUSA), with technical assistance provided by the Polytechnic University of Cartagena.
3. Environmental Diagnostic Results
• The channelization works carried out between the 1970s and 1990s:
o Caused a loss of the river’s natural alignment, riverbed, and riparian zones.
o Led to a disconnection between the active channel and the floodplain.
o Resulted in 20 abandoned meanders within the Region of Murcia.
• The current river reach is characterized by:
o A homogeneous and rectilinear morphology.
o Widespread invasion by Arundo donax (giant reed).
o The absence of a functional riparian forest.
4. Fluvial Connectivity Results
• A significant deterioration of fluvial connectivity was identified:
o Longitudinal connectivity: lack of continuous riparian vegetation.
o Lateral connectivity: disconnection between the river channel and the floodplain.
o Vertical connectivity: alteration of subsurface and groundwater flows.
• The recovery of abandoned meanders would:
o Increase habitat diversity.
o Enhance the ecological resilience of the fluvial system.
5. Hydraulic Analysis and Flood Risk Results
• According to the Flood Hazard and Risk Maps (MPRI):
o No significant flood risk exists for return periods of 10 and 50 years.
o The entire intervention area is flood-prone for return periods of 100 and 500 years.
• The project area is included within a Preferential Flow Zone (PFZ).
• A hydraulic study using HEC-RAS was conducted, comparing scenarios:
o Without implementation of the meander restoration.
o With implementation of the meander restoration.
• The results confirm that the proposed intervention:
o Does not increase flood risk upstream or downstream.
o Improves flood attenuation capacity during extreme events.
6. Urban Planning and Legal Compliance Results
• The intervention area is fully compatible with the Plan General de Organización Urbanística (PGOU):
o Classified as a Hydraulic General System and Green/Open Space System.
• The project:
o Is entirely located within the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Complies with the Spanish Water Law and the Regulations of the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Meets fluvial restoration and ecological continuity criteria.
7. Overall Project Outcome
• The proposal:
o Restores a more natural fluvial morphology.
o Enhances ecological connectivity.
o Reduces flood risk through nature-based solutions.
o Demonstrates technical, environmental, urban planning, and legal feasibility.
|Lessons learn=1. The historical channelization of the Segura River, mainly carried out between the 1970s and 1990s, reduced immediate flood risk but resulted in a significant loss of natural fluvial dynamics, ecological connectivity, and floodplain functionality.
2. The disconnection between the current river channel and the abandoned meanders has led to marked environmental degradation, characterized by morphological homogenization, the disappearance of riparian forests, and the spread of invasive species such as Arundo donax.
3. The Meandro Chico del Vivillo area shows a high potential for fluvial restoration, as it is a former river bend located within the Public Hydraulic Domain, with minimal impact on private land and full urban planning compatibility.
4. The recovery of the former meander through channel widening and riparian revegetation will significantly improve longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity of the fluvial system, increasing habitat diversity and enhancing the ecological resilience of the Segura River.
5. The hydraulic studies conducted demonstrate that the proposed intervention does not increase flood risk for the analyzed return periods and contributes to improved flood attenuation during extreme flood events.
6. The intervention complies with current water, land-use planning, and flood risk management regulations, and is aligned with fluvial restoration principles and nature-based solutions.
7. The project represents a strategic and replicable action for the environmental recovery of the Segura River fluvial corridor, providing environmental, social, and landscape benefits, and strengthening institutional cooperation between public administrations and universities.
|Project title=RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)
}}
{{Image gallery}}
{{Image gallery end}}
{{Toggle button}}
{{Toggle content start}}
{{Case study subcatchment}}
{{Site
|Name=Meandro Chico del Vivillo
|WFD water body code=ES070MSPF
|WFD (national) typology=ES070MSPF002080115
|WFD water body name=Segura River
|Pre-project morphology=Artificial channel, Low gradient passively meandering
|Reference morphology=Low gradient passively meandering
|Desired post project morphology=Low gradient passively meandering, Reinforced banks
|Heavily modified water body=Yes
|Site designation=Spain - Parque Periurbano
|Local site designation=Metropolitan Green Belt, Habitats of Community Interest
|Protected species present=Yes
|Invasive species present=Yes
|Species=Arundo donax, Populus alba, Phoenix dactilyfera
|Dominant hydrology=Artificially regulated
|Dominant substrate=Pebble, Silt
|River corridor land use=Orchard, Urban
|Average bankfull channel width category=5 - 10 m
|Avrg bankfull channel width=12.10
|Average bankfull channel depth category=0.5 - 2 m
|Avrg1 bankfull channel depth=1
|Mean discharge category=0.1 - 1.0 m³/s
|Mn discharge=0.3
|Average channel gradient category=Less than 0.001
|Avrg channel gradient=0.0007
}}
{{Project background
|Project started=2025-05-09
|Works started=2025-10-25
|Total cost category=more than 10000 k€
|Total1 cost=1426.461552
|Funding sources=Recovery Transformation and Resilience Plan
}}
{{Motivations
|Specific mitigation=Invasive species, Riparian development
|Hydromorphological quality elements=Flow velocities, Fluvial conectivity, Flood attenuation capacity
|Biological quality elements=Angiosperms, Macrophytes, Macrophytes and/or phytobenthos: Average abundance, Riparian habitat
|Other motivation=Historical channels, Hydraulic heritage of the river reach
}}
{{Measures
|Bank and bed modifications measure=Right bank maintains the existing levee, Left bank turns with the old meander, Current levee elevation is mantained
|Floodplain / River corridor=Habitat restoration, Planting of autochthonous vegetation
|Planform / Channel pattern=Modification of existing defenses, restoration of the old meander
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality elements header}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Monitored before=No
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=No
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Biological quality elements header}}
{{Biological quality element table row
|Element=Macrophytes
|Monitored before=Yes
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=Yes
|Quantitative monitoring=No
|Control site used=Yes
}}
{{End table}}
{{Physico-chemical quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Other responses header}}
{{End table}}
{{Monitoring documents}}
{{Monitoring documents end}}
{{Additional Documents}}
{{Additional Documents end}}
{{Additional links and references header}}
{{Additional links and references footer}}
{{Supplementary Information}}
{{Toggle content end}}

Case study:RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)

2025-12-19T09:07:27Z

Ecopatrimonio:

{{Case study status
|Approval status=Draft
}}
{{Location
|Location=37.98043, -1.17378
}}
{{Project overview
|Status=In progress
|Themes=Environmental flows and water resources, Flood risk management, Habitat and biodiversity, Hydromorphology, Land use management - agriculture, Land use management - forestry, Social benefits, Spatial planning, Urban, Water quality
|Country=Spain
|Main contact forename=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact surname=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact id=Ayuntamiento de Murcia
|Contact organisation=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Contact organisation url=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Multi-site=No
|Project summary=The project is part of a joint strategy developed since 2017 by the City Council of Murcia and the Universities of Murcia and Cartagena (UPCT) aimed at the environmental restoration of the Segura River and its former meanders in the western area of the municipality. This global strategy, completed in 2019, defines 26 types of environmental and territorial actions applied to 27 specific river sections, focusing on riverbed restoration, riparian revegetation, agroecological recovery of the huerta, flood risk management, improvement of paths and connectivity, enhancement of hydraulic heritage, and environmental education.

The areas of intervention are classified according to their morphology (large meanders, medium meanders, small bends, fluvial terraces, and connecting areas). Four of these were prioritized due to their social, environmental, and administrative relevance, including the Meandro Chico del Vivillo. These areas allow improvements in the river’s longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity, the recovery of biodiversity, the reduction of flood risk, and the creation of new green spaces close to densely populated urban areas.

The Vivillo Meander project was developed as a preliminary design and received European funding through the Biodiversity Foundation within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan. Its objective is to reverse the negative impacts of river channelization carried out since the 1970s, which straightened the river, eliminated meanders, and disconnected it from its floodplain, leading to a loss of fluvial dynamics and biodiversity.

The proposal is based on contemporary river restoration principles that promote the recovery of natural river geomorphology, reconnection with the floodplain, enhancement of riparian forests, and the creation of diverse habitats, demonstrating that nature-based solutions are more effective and sustainable than traditional channelization approaches for flood management.
|Monitoring surveys and results=1. Strategic and Planning Results
• A global environmental restoration strategy was defined for the Segura River in the western area of the municipality of Murcia, structured into:
o 26 types of actions (9 general actions applicable to the entire proposal and 17 specific actions for defined areas).
o 27 specific intervention areas between La Contraparada and the city of Murcia.
• Four priority preliminary design projects were developed: Rambla de la Ventosa, Meandro Chico del Vivillo, Meandro del Molino de la Rosquilla, and Meandro del Molino de Funes.
2. Administrative and Funding Results
• The Fluvial Restoration Project of the former Segura River channel at the Vivillo Meander was:
o Submitted to the Fundación Biodiversidad grant call (NextGenerationEU).
o Awarded funding of €1,670,158.9 in September 2022.
• The preliminary design was reviewed by the Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura (CHS), which issued technical considerations in June 2023.
• The drafting of the project was commissioned to Urbanizadora Municipal S.A. (URBAMUSA), with technical assistance provided by the Polytechnic University of Cartagena.
3. Environmental Diagnostic Results
• The channelization works carried out between the 1970s and 1990s:
o Caused a loss of the river’s natural alignment, riverbed, and riparian zones.
o Led to a disconnection between the active channel and the floodplain.
o Resulted in 20 abandoned meanders within the Region of Murcia.
• The current river reach is characterized by:
o A homogeneous and rectilinear morphology.
o Widespread invasion by Arundo donax (giant reed).
o The absence of a functional riparian forest.
4. Fluvial Connectivity Results
• A significant deterioration of fluvial connectivity was identified:
o Longitudinal connectivity: lack of continuous riparian vegetation.
o Lateral connectivity: disconnection between the river channel and the floodplain.
o Vertical connectivity: alteration of subsurface and groundwater flows.
• The recovery of abandoned meanders would:
o Increase habitat diversity.
o Enhance the ecological resilience of the fluvial system.
5. Hydraulic Analysis and Flood Risk Results
• According to the Flood Hazard and Risk Maps (MPRI):
o No significant flood risk exists for return periods of 10 and 50 years.
o The entire intervention area is flood-prone for return periods of 100 and 500 years.
• The project area is included within a Preferential Flow Zone (PFZ).
• A hydraulic study using HEC-RAS was conducted, comparing scenarios:
o Without implementation of the meander restoration.
o With implementation of the meander restoration.
• The results confirm that the proposed intervention:
o Does not increase flood risk upstream or downstream.
o Improves flood attenuation capacity during extreme events.
6. Urban Planning and Legal Compliance Results
• The intervention area is fully compatible with the Plan General de Organización Urbanística (PGOU):
o Classified as a Hydraulic General System and Green/Open Space System.
• The project:
o Is entirely located within the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Complies with the Spanish Water Law and the Regulations of the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Meets fluvial restoration and ecological continuity criteria.
7. Overall Project Outcome
• The proposal:
o Restores a more natural fluvial morphology.
o Enhances ecological connectivity.
o Reduces flood risk through nature-based solutions.
o Demonstrates technical, environmental, urban planning, and legal feasibility.
|Lessons learn=1. The historical channelization of the Segura River, mainly carried out between the 1970s and 1990s, reduced immediate flood risk but resulted in a significant loss of natural fluvial dynamics, ecological connectivity, and floodplain functionality.
2. The disconnection between the current river channel and the abandoned meanders has led to marked environmental degradation, characterized by morphological homogenization, the disappearance of riparian forests, and the spread of invasive species such as Arundo donax.
3. The Meandro Chico del Vivillo area shows a high potential for fluvial restoration, as it is a former river bend located within the Public Hydraulic Domain, with minimal impact on private land and full urban planning compatibility.
4. The recovery of the former meander through channel widening and riparian revegetation will significantly improve longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity of the fluvial system, increasing habitat diversity and enhancing the ecological resilience of the Segura River.
5. The hydraulic studies conducted demonstrate that the proposed intervention does not increase flood risk for the analyzed return periods and contributes to improved flood attenuation during extreme flood events.
6. The intervention complies with current water, land-use planning, and flood risk management regulations, and is aligned with fluvial restoration principles and nature-based solutions.
7. The project represents a strategic and replicable action for the environmental recovery of the Segura River fluvial corridor, providing environmental, social, and landscape benefits, and strengthening institutional cooperation between public administrations and universities.
|Project title=RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)
}}
{{Image gallery}}
{{Image gallery end}}
{{Toggle button}}
{{Toggle content start}}
{{Case study subcatchment}}
{{Site
|Name=Meandro Chico del Vivillo
|WFD water body code=ES070MSPF
|WFD (national) typology=ES070MSPF002080115
|WFD water body name=Segura River
|Pre-project morphology=Artificial channel, Low gradient passively meandering
|Reference morphology=Low gradient passively meandering
|Desired post project morphology=Low gradient passively meandering, Reinforced banks
|Heavily modified water body=Yes
|Site designation=Spain - Parque Periurbano
|Local site designation=Metropolitan Green Belt, Habitats of Community Interest
|Protected species present=Yes
|Invasive species present=Yes
|Species=Arundo donax, Populus alba, Phoenix dactilyfera
|Dominant hydrology=Artificially regulated
|Dominant substrate=Pebble, Silt
|River corridor land use=Orchard, Urban
|Average bankfull channel width category=5 - 10 m
|Avrg bankfull channel width=12.10
|Average bankfull channel depth category=0.5 - 2 m
|Avrg1 bankfull channel depth=1
|Mean discharge category=0.1 - 1.0 m³/s
|Mn discharge=0.3
|Average channel gradient category=Less than 0.001
|Avrg channel gradient=0.0007
}}
{{Project background
|Project started=2025-05-09
|Works started=2025-10-25
|Total cost category=more than 10000 k€
|Total1 cost=1426.461552
|Funding sources=Recovery Transformation and Resilience Plan
}}
{{Motivations
|Specific mitigation=Invasive species, Riparian development
|Hydromorphological quality elements=Flow velocities, Fluvial conectivity, Flood attenuation capacity
|Biological quality elements=Angiosperms, Macrophytes, Macrophytes and/or phytobenthos: Average abundance, Riparian habitat
|Other motivation=Historical channels, Hydraulic heritage of the river reach
}}
{{Measures
|Bank and bed modifications measure=Right bank maintains the existing levee, Left bank turns with the old meander, Current levee elevation is mantained
|Floodplain / River corridor=Habitat restoration, Planting of autochthonous vegetation
|Planform / Channel pattern=Modification of existing defenses, restoration of the old meander
}}
{{Hydromorphological quality elements header}}
{{Hydromorphological quality element table row
|Monitored before=No
|Monitored after=No
|Qualitative monitoring=No
|Quantitative monitoring=No
|Control site used=No
}}
{{End table}}
{{Biological quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Physico-chemical quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Other responses header}}
{{End table}}
{{Monitoring documents}}
{{Monitoring documents end}}
{{Additional Documents}}
{{Additional Documents end}}
{{Additional links and references header}}
{{Additional links and references footer}}
{{Supplementary Information}}
{{Toggle content end}}

Case study:RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)

2025-12-19T09:04:32Z

Ecopatrimonio:

{{Measures
|Bank and bed modifications measure=Right bank maintains the existing levee, Left bank turns with the old meander, Current levee elevation is mantained
|Floodplain / River corridor=Habitat restoration, Planting of autochthonous vegetation
|Planform / Channel pattern=Modification of existing defenses, restoration of the old meander
}}
{{Motivations
|Specific mitigation=Invasive species, Riparian development
|Hydromorphological quality elements=Flow velocities, Fluvial conectivity, Flood attenuation capacity
|Biological quality elements=Angiosperms, Macrophytes, Macrophytes and/or phytobenthos: Average abundance, Riparian habitat
|Other motivation=Historical channels, Hydraulic heritage of the river reach
}}
{{Project background
|Project started=2025-05-09
|Works started=2025-10-25
|Total cost category=more than 10000 k€
|Total1 cost=1426.461552
|Funding sources=Recovery Transformation and Resilience Plan
}}
{{Site
|Name=Meandro Chico del Vivillo
|WFD water body code=ES070MSPF
|WFD (national) typology=ES070MSPF002080115
|WFD water body name=Segura River
|Pre-project morphology=Artificial channel, Low gradient passively meandering
|Reference morphology=Low gradient passively meandering
|Desired post project morphology=Low gradient passively meandering, Reinforced banks
|Heavily modified water body=Yes
|Site designation=Spain - Parque Periurbano
|Local site designation=Metropolitan Green Belt, Habitats of Community Interest
|Protected species present=Yes
|Invasive species present=Yes
|Species=Arundo donax, Populus alba, Phoenix dactilyfera
|Dominant hydrology=Artificially regulated
|Dominant substrate=Pebble, Silt
|River corridor land use=Orchard, Urban
|Average bankfull channel width category=5 - 10 m
|Avrg bankfull channel width=12.10
|Average bankfull channel depth category=0.5 - 2 m
|Avrg1 bankfull channel depth=1
|Mean discharge category=0.1 - 1.0 m³/s
|Mn discharge=0.3
|Average channel gradient category=Less than 0.001
|Avrg channel gradient=0.0007
}}
{{Project overview
|Status=In progress
|Themes=Environmental flows and water resources, Flood risk management, Habitat and biodiversity, Hydromorphology, Land use management - agriculture, Land use management - forestry, Social benefits, Spatial planning, Urban, Water quality
|Country=Spain
|Main contact forename=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact surname=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact id=Ayuntamiento de Murcia
|Contact organisation=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Contact organisation url=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Multi-site=No
|Project summary=The project is part of a joint strategy developed since 2017 by the City Council of Murcia and the Universities of Murcia and Cartagena (UPCT) aimed at the environmental restoration of the Segura River and its former meanders in the western area of the municipality. This global strategy, completed in 2019, defines 26 types of environmental and territorial actions applied to 27 specific river sections, focusing on riverbed restoration, riparian revegetation, agroecological recovery of the huerta, flood risk management, improvement of paths and connectivity, enhancement of hydraulic heritage, and environmental education.

The areas of intervention are classified according to their morphology (large meanders, medium meanders, small bends, fluvial terraces, and connecting areas). Four of these were prioritized due to their social, environmental, and administrative relevance, including the Meandro Chico del Vivillo. These areas allow improvements in the river’s longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity, the recovery of biodiversity, the reduction of flood risk, and the creation of new green spaces close to densely populated urban areas.

The Vivillo Meander project was developed as a preliminary design and received European funding through the Biodiversity Foundation within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan. Its objective is to reverse the negative impacts of river channelization carried out since the 1970s, which straightened the river, eliminated meanders, and disconnected it from its floodplain, leading to a loss of fluvial dynamics and biodiversity.

The proposal is based on contemporary river restoration principles that promote the recovery of natural river geomorphology, reconnection with the floodplain, enhancement of riparian forests, and the creation of diverse habitats, demonstrating that nature-based solutions are more effective and sustainable than traditional channelization approaches for flood management.
|Monitoring surveys and results=1. Strategic and Planning Results
• A global environmental restoration strategy was defined for the Segura River in the western area of the municipality of Murcia, structured into:
o 26 types of actions (9 general actions applicable to the entire proposal and 17 specific actions for defined areas).
o 27 specific intervention areas between La Contraparada and the city of Murcia.
• Four priority preliminary design projects were developed: Rambla de la Ventosa, Meandro Chico del Vivillo, Meandro del Molino de la Rosquilla, and Meandro del Molino de Funes.
2. Administrative and Funding Results
• The Fluvial Restoration Project of the former Segura River channel at the Vivillo Meander was:
o Submitted to the Fundación Biodiversidad grant call (NextGenerationEU).
o Awarded funding of €1,670,158.9 in September 2022.
• The preliminary design was reviewed by the Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura (CHS), which issued technical considerations in June 2023.
• The drafting of the project was commissioned to Urbanizadora Municipal S.A. (URBAMUSA), with technical assistance provided by the Polytechnic University of Cartagena.
3. Environmental Diagnostic Results
• The channelization works carried out between the 1970s and 1990s:
o Caused a loss of the river’s natural alignment, riverbed, and riparian zones.
o Led to a disconnection between the active channel and the floodplain.
o Resulted in 20 abandoned meanders within the Region of Murcia.
• The current river reach is characterized by:
o A homogeneous and rectilinear morphology.
o Widespread invasion by Arundo donax (giant reed).
o The absence of a functional riparian forest.
4. Fluvial Connectivity Results
• A significant deterioration of fluvial connectivity was identified:
o Longitudinal connectivity: lack of continuous riparian vegetation.
o Lateral connectivity: disconnection between the river channel and the floodplain.
o Vertical connectivity: alteration of subsurface and groundwater flows.
• The recovery of abandoned meanders would:
o Increase habitat diversity.
o Enhance the ecological resilience of the fluvial system.
5. Hydraulic Analysis and Flood Risk Results
• According to the Flood Hazard and Risk Maps (MPRI):
o No significant flood risk exists for return periods of 10 and 50 years.
o The entire intervention area is flood-prone for return periods of 100 and 500 years.
• The project area is included within a Preferential Flow Zone (PFZ).
• A hydraulic study using HEC-RAS was conducted, comparing scenarios:
o Without implementation of the meander restoration.
o With implementation of the meander restoration.
• The results confirm that the proposed intervention:
o Does not increase flood risk upstream or downstream.
o Improves flood attenuation capacity during extreme events.
6. Urban Planning and Legal Compliance Results
• The intervention area is fully compatible with the Plan General de Organización Urbanística (PGOU):
o Classified as a Hydraulic General System and Green/Open Space System.
• The project:
o Is entirely located within the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Complies with the Spanish Water Law and the Regulations of the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Meets fluvial restoration and ecological continuity criteria.
7. Overall Project Outcome
• The proposal:
o Restores a more natural fluvial morphology.
o Enhances ecological connectivity.
o Reduces flood risk through nature-based solutions.
o Demonstrates technical, environmental, urban planning, and legal feasibility.
|Lessons learn=1. The historical channelization of the Segura River, mainly carried out between the 1970s and 1990s, reduced immediate flood risk but resulted in a significant loss of natural fluvial dynamics, ecological connectivity, and floodplain functionality.
2. The disconnection between the current river channel and the abandoned meanders has led to marked environmental degradation, characterized by morphological homogenization, the disappearance of riparian forests, and the spread of invasive species such as Arundo donax.
3. The Meandro Chico del Vivillo area shows a high potential for fluvial restoration, as it is a former river bend located within the Public Hydraulic Domain, with minimal impact on private land and full urban planning compatibility.
4. The recovery of the former meander through channel widening and riparian revegetation will significantly improve longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity of the fluvial system, increasing habitat diversity and enhancing the ecological resilience of the Segura River.
5. The hydraulic studies conducted demonstrate that the proposed intervention does not increase flood risk for the analyzed return periods and contributes to improved flood attenuation during extreme flood events.
6. The intervention complies with current water, land-use planning, and flood risk management regulations, and is aligned with fluvial restoration principles and nature-based solutions.
7. The project represents a strategic and replicable action for the environmental recovery of the Segura River fluvial corridor, providing environmental, social, and landscape benefits, and strengthening institutional cooperation between public administrations and universities.
|Project title=RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)
}}
{{Case study status
|Approval status=Draft
}}
{{Location
|Location=37.98043, -1.17378
}}

{{Image gallery}}
{{Image gallery end}}
{{Toggle button}}
{{Toggle content start}}
{{Case study subcatchment}}

{{Hydromorphological quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Biological quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Physico-chemical quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Other responses header}}
{{End table}}
{{Monitoring documents}}
{{Monitoring documents end}}
{{Additional Documents}}
{{Additional Documents end}}
{{Additional links and references header}}
{{Additional links and references footer}}
{{Supplementary Information}}
{{Toggle content end}}

Case study:RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)

2025-12-19T08:38:27Z

Ecopatrimonio:

{{Motivations
|Specific mitigation=Invasive species, Riparian development
|Hydromorphological quality elements=Flow velocities, Fluvial conectivity, Flood attenuation capacity
|Biological quality elements=Angiosperms, Macrophytes, Macrophytes and/or phytobenthos: Average abundance, Riparian habitat
|Other motivation=Historical channels, Hydraulic heritage of the river reach
}}
{{Project background
|Project started=2025-05-09
|Works started=2025-10-25
|Total cost category=more than 10000 k€
|Total1 cost=1426.461552
|Funding sources=Recovery Transformation and Resilience Plan
}}
{{Site
|Name=Meandro Chico del Vivillo
|WFD water body code=ES070MSPF
|WFD (national) typology=ES070MSPF002080115
|WFD water body name=Segura River
|Pre-project morphology=Artificial channel, Low gradient passively meandering
|Reference morphology=Low gradient passively meandering
|Desired post project morphology=Low gradient passively meandering, Reinforced banks
|Heavily modified water body=Yes
|Site designation=Spain - Parque Periurbano
|Local site designation=Metropolitan Green Belt, Habitats of Community Interest
|Protected species present=Yes
|Invasive species present=Yes
|Species=Arundo donax, Populus alba, Phoenix dactilyfera
|Dominant hydrology=Artificially regulated
|Dominant substrate=Pebble, Silt
|River corridor land use=Orchard, Urban
|Average bankfull channel width category=5 - 10 m
|Avrg bankfull channel width=12.10
|Average bankfull channel depth category=0.5 - 2 m
|Avrg1 bankfull channel depth=1
|Mean discharge category=0.1 - 1.0 m³/s
|Mn discharge=0.3
|Average channel gradient category=Less than 0.001
|Avrg channel gradient=0.0007
}}
{{Project overview
|Status=In progress
|Themes=Environmental flows and water resources, Flood risk management, Habitat and biodiversity, Hydromorphology, Land use management - agriculture, Land use management - forestry, Social benefits, Spatial planning, Urban, Water quality
|Country=Spain
|Main contact forename=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact surname=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact id=Ayuntamiento de Murcia
|Contact organisation=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Contact organisation url=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Multi-site=No
|Project summary=The project is part of a joint strategy developed since 2017 by the City Council of Murcia and the Universities of Murcia and Cartagena (UPCT) aimed at the environmental restoration of the Segura River and its former meanders in the western area of the municipality. This global strategy, completed in 2019, defines 26 types of environmental and territorial actions applied to 27 specific river sections, focusing on riverbed restoration, riparian revegetation, agroecological recovery of the huerta, flood risk management, improvement of paths and connectivity, enhancement of hydraulic heritage, and environmental education.

The areas of intervention are classified according to their morphology (large meanders, medium meanders, small bends, fluvial terraces, and connecting areas). Four of these were prioritized due to their social, environmental, and administrative relevance, including the Meandro Chico del Vivillo. These areas allow improvements in the river’s longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity, the recovery of biodiversity, the reduction of flood risk, and the creation of new green spaces close to densely populated urban areas.

The Vivillo Meander project was developed as a preliminary design and received European funding through the Biodiversity Foundation within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan. Its objective is to reverse the negative impacts of river channelization carried out since the 1970s, which straightened the river, eliminated meanders, and disconnected it from its floodplain, leading to a loss of fluvial dynamics and biodiversity.

The proposal is based on contemporary river restoration principles that promote the recovery of natural river geomorphology, reconnection with the floodplain, enhancement of riparian forests, and the creation of diverse habitats, demonstrating that nature-based solutions are more effective and sustainable than traditional channelization approaches for flood management.
|Monitoring surveys and results=1. Strategic and Planning Results
• A global environmental restoration strategy was defined for the Segura River in the western area of the municipality of Murcia, structured into:
o 26 types of actions (9 general actions applicable to the entire proposal and 17 specific actions for defined areas).
o 27 specific intervention areas between La Contraparada and the city of Murcia.
• Four priority preliminary design projects were developed: Rambla de la Ventosa, Meandro Chico del Vivillo, Meandro del Molino de la Rosquilla, and Meandro del Molino de Funes.
2. Administrative and Funding Results
• The Fluvial Restoration Project of the former Segura River channel at the Vivillo Meander was:
o Submitted to the Fundación Biodiversidad grant call (NextGenerationEU).
o Awarded funding of €1,670,158.9 in September 2022.
• The preliminary design was reviewed by the Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura (CHS), which issued technical considerations in June 2023.
• The drafting of the project was commissioned to Urbanizadora Municipal S.A. (URBAMUSA), with technical assistance provided by the Polytechnic University of Cartagena.
3. Environmental Diagnostic Results
• The channelization works carried out between the 1970s and 1990s:
o Caused a loss of the river’s natural alignment, riverbed, and riparian zones.
o Led to a disconnection between the active channel and the floodplain.
o Resulted in 20 abandoned meanders within the Region of Murcia.
• The current river reach is characterized by:
o A homogeneous and rectilinear morphology.
o Widespread invasion by Arundo donax (giant reed).
o The absence of a functional riparian forest.
4. Fluvial Connectivity Results
• A significant deterioration of fluvial connectivity was identified:
o Longitudinal connectivity: lack of continuous riparian vegetation.
o Lateral connectivity: disconnection between the river channel and the floodplain.
o Vertical connectivity: alteration of subsurface and groundwater flows.
• The recovery of abandoned meanders would:
o Increase habitat diversity.
o Enhance the ecological resilience of the fluvial system.
5. Hydraulic Analysis and Flood Risk Results
• According to the Flood Hazard and Risk Maps (MPRI):
o No significant flood risk exists for return periods of 10 and 50 years.
o The entire intervention area is flood-prone for return periods of 100 and 500 years.
• The project area is included within a Preferential Flow Zone (PFZ).
• A hydraulic study using HEC-RAS was conducted, comparing scenarios:
o Without implementation of the meander restoration.
o With implementation of the meander restoration.
• The results confirm that the proposed intervention:
o Does not increase flood risk upstream or downstream.
o Improves flood attenuation capacity during extreme events.
6. Urban Planning and Legal Compliance Results
• The intervention area is fully compatible with the Plan General de Organización Urbanística (PGOU):
o Classified as a Hydraulic General System and Green/Open Space System.
• The project:
o Is entirely located within the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Complies with the Spanish Water Law and the Regulations of the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Meets fluvial restoration and ecological continuity criteria.
7. Overall Project Outcome
• The proposal:
o Restores a more natural fluvial morphology.
o Enhances ecological connectivity.
o Reduces flood risk through nature-based solutions.
o Demonstrates technical, environmental, urban planning, and legal feasibility.
|Lessons learn=1. The historical channelization of the Segura River, mainly carried out between the 1970s and 1990s, reduced immediate flood risk but resulted in a significant loss of natural fluvial dynamics, ecological connectivity, and floodplain functionality.
2. The disconnection between the current river channel and the abandoned meanders has led to marked environmental degradation, characterized by morphological homogenization, the disappearance of riparian forests, and the spread of invasive species such as Arundo donax.
3. The Meandro Chico del Vivillo area shows a high potential for fluvial restoration, as it is a former river bend located within the Public Hydraulic Domain, with minimal impact on private land and full urban planning compatibility.
4. The recovery of the former meander through channel widening and riparian revegetation will significantly improve longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity of the fluvial system, increasing habitat diversity and enhancing the ecological resilience of the Segura River.
5. The hydraulic studies conducted demonstrate that the proposed intervention does not increase flood risk for the analyzed return periods and contributes to improved flood attenuation during extreme flood events.
6. The intervention complies with current water, land-use planning, and flood risk management regulations, and is aligned with fluvial restoration principles and nature-based solutions.
7. The project represents a strategic and replicable action for the environmental recovery of the Segura River fluvial corridor, providing environmental, social, and landscape benefits, and strengthening institutional cooperation between public administrations and universities.
|Project title=RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)
}}
{{Case study status
|Approval status=Draft
}}
{{Location
|Location=37.98043, -1.17378
}}

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Case study:RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)

2025-12-19T08:33:30Z

Ecopatrimonio:

{{Motivations
|Specific mitigation=Riparian development, Invasive species, Flood risk management, Recover the lost meander
|Hydromorphological quality elements=Flow velocities, Improve fluvial conectivity
|Biological quality elements=Macrophytes, Macrophytes and/or phytobenthos: Average abundance, Angiosperms, Riparian habitat
|Other motivation=Restore historical channels, Preserve the hydraulic heritage of the river reach
}}
{{Project background
|Project started=2025-05-09
|Works started=2025-10-25
|Total cost category=more than 10000 k€
|Total1 cost=1426.461552
|Funding sources=Recovery Transformation and Resilience Plan
}}
{{Site
|Name=Meandro Chico del Vivillo
|WFD water body code=ES070MSPF
|WFD (national) typology=ES070MSPF002080115
|WFD water body name=Segura River
|Pre-project morphology=Artificial channel, Low gradient passively meandering
|Reference morphology=Low gradient passively meandering
|Desired post project morphology=Low gradient passively meandering, Reinforced banks
|Heavily modified water body=Yes
|Site designation=Spain - Parque Periurbano
|Local site designation=Metropolitan Green Belt, Habitats of Community Interest
|Protected species present=Yes
|Invasive species present=Yes
|Species=Arundo donax, Populus alba, Phoenix dactilyfera
|Dominant hydrology=Artificially regulated
|Dominant substrate=Pebble, Silt
|River corridor land use=Orchard, Urban
|Average bankfull channel width category=5 - 10 m
|Avrg bankfull channel width=12.10
|Average bankfull channel depth category=0.5 - 2 m
|Avrg1 bankfull channel depth=1
|Mean discharge category=0.1 - 1.0 m³/s
|Mn discharge=0.3
|Average channel gradient category=Less than 0.001
|Avrg channel gradient=0.0007
}}
{{Project overview
|Status=In progress
|Themes=Environmental flows and water resources, Flood risk management, Habitat and biodiversity, Hydromorphology, Land use management - agriculture, Land use management - forestry, Social benefits, Spatial planning, Urban, Water quality
|Country=Spain
|Main contact forename=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact surname=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact id=Ayuntamiento de Murcia
|Contact organisation=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Contact organisation url=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Multi-site=No
|Project summary=The project is part of a joint strategy developed since 2017 by the City Council of Murcia and the Universities of Murcia and Cartagena (UPCT) aimed at the environmental restoration of the Segura River and its former meanders in the western area of the municipality. This global strategy, completed in 2019, defines 26 types of environmental and territorial actions applied to 27 specific river sections, focusing on riverbed restoration, riparian revegetation, agroecological recovery of the huerta, flood risk management, improvement of paths and connectivity, enhancement of hydraulic heritage, and environmental education.

The areas of intervention are classified according to their morphology (large meanders, medium meanders, small bends, fluvial terraces, and connecting areas). Four of these were prioritized due to their social, environmental, and administrative relevance, including the Meandro Chico del Vivillo. These areas allow improvements in the river’s longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity, the recovery of biodiversity, the reduction of flood risk, and the creation of new green spaces close to densely populated urban areas.

The Vivillo Meander project was developed as a preliminary design and received European funding through the Biodiversity Foundation within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan. Its objective is to reverse the negative impacts of river channelization carried out since the 1970s, which straightened the river, eliminated meanders, and disconnected it from its floodplain, leading to a loss of fluvial dynamics and biodiversity.

The proposal is based on contemporary river restoration principles that promote the recovery of natural river geomorphology, reconnection with the floodplain, enhancement of riparian forests, and the creation of diverse habitats, demonstrating that nature-based solutions are more effective and sustainable than traditional channelization approaches for flood management.
|Monitoring surveys and results=1. Strategic and Planning Results
• A global environmental restoration strategy was defined for the Segura River in the western area of the municipality of Murcia, structured into:
o 26 types of actions (9 general actions applicable to the entire proposal and 17 specific actions for defined areas).
o 27 specific intervention areas between La Contraparada and the city of Murcia.
• Four priority preliminary design projects were developed: Rambla de la Ventosa, Meandro Chico del Vivillo, Meandro del Molino de la Rosquilla, and Meandro del Molino de Funes.
2. Administrative and Funding Results
• The Fluvial Restoration Project of the former Segura River channel at the Vivillo Meander was:
o Submitted to the Fundación Biodiversidad grant call (NextGenerationEU).
o Awarded funding of €1,670,158.9 in September 2022.
• The preliminary design was reviewed by the Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura (CHS), which issued technical considerations in June 2023.
• The drafting of the project was commissioned to Urbanizadora Municipal S.A. (URBAMUSA), with technical assistance provided by the Polytechnic University of Cartagena.
3. Environmental Diagnostic Results
• The channelization works carried out between the 1970s and 1990s:
o Caused a loss of the river’s natural alignment, riverbed, and riparian zones.
o Led to a disconnection between the active channel and the floodplain.
o Resulted in 20 abandoned meanders within the Region of Murcia.
• The current river reach is characterized by:
o A homogeneous and rectilinear morphology.
o Widespread invasion by Arundo donax (giant reed).
o The absence of a functional riparian forest.
4. Fluvial Connectivity Results
• A significant deterioration of fluvial connectivity was identified:
o Longitudinal connectivity: lack of continuous riparian vegetation.
o Lateral connectivity: disconnection between the river channel and the floodplain.
o Vertical connectivity: alteration of subsurface and groundwater flows.
• The recovery of abandoned meanders would:
o Increase habitat diversity.
o Enhance the ecological resilience of the fluvial system.
5. Hydraulic Analysis and Flood Risk Results
• According to the Flood Hazard and Risk Maps (MPRI):
o No significant flood risk exists for return periods of 10 and 50 years.
o The entire intervention area is flood-prone for return periods of 100 and 500 years.
• The project area is included within a Preferential Flow Zone (PFZ).
• A hydraulic study using HEC-RAS was conducted, comparing scenarios:
o Without implementation of the meander restoration.
o With implementation of the meander restoration.
• The results confirm that the proposed intervention:
o Does not increase flood risk upstream or downstream.
o Improves flood attenuation capacity during extreme events.
6. Urban Planning and Legal Compliance Results
• The intervention area is fully compatible with the Plan General de Organización Urbanística (PGOU):
o Classified as a Hydraulic General System and Green/Open Space System.
• The project:
o Is entirely located within the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Complies with the Spanish Water Law and the Regulations of the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Meets fluvial restoration and ecological continuity criteria.
7. Overall Project Outcome
• The proposal:
o Restores a more natural fluvial morphology.
o Enhances ecological connectivity.
o Reduces flood risk through nature-based solutions.
o Demonstrates technical, environmental, urban planning, and legal feasibility.
|Lessons learn=1. The historical channelization of the Segura River, mainly carried out between the 1970s and 1990s, reduced immediate flood risk but resulted in a significant loss of natural fluvial dynamics, ecological connectivity, and floodplain functionality.
2. The disconnection between the current river channel and the abandoned meanders has led to marked environmental degradation, characterized by morphological homogenization, the disappearance of riparian forests, and the spread of invasive species such as Arundo donax.
3. The Meandro Chico del Vivillo area shows a high potential for fluvial restoration, as it is a former river bend located within the Public Hydraulic Domain, with minimal impact on private land and full urban planning compatibility.
4. The recovery of the former meander through channel widening and riparian revegetation will significantly improve longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity of the fluvial system, increasing habitat diversity and enhancing the ecological resilience of the Segura River.
5. The hydraulic studies conducted demonstrate that the proposed intervention does not increase flood risk for the analyzed return periods and contributes to improved flood attenuation during extreme flood events.
6. The intervention complies with current water, land-use planning, and flood risk management regulations, and is aligned with fluvial restoration principles and nature-based solutions.
7. The project represents a strategic and replicable action for the environmental recovery of the Segura River fluvial corridor, providing environmental, social, and landscape benefits, and strengthening institutional cooperation between public administrations and universities.
|Project title=RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)
}}
{{Case study status
|Approval status=Draft
}}
{{Location
|Location=37.98043, -1.17378
}}

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{{Measures}}
{{Hydromorphological quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Biological quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Physico-chemical quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Other responses header}}
{{End table}}
{{Monitoring documents}}
{{Monitoring documents end}}
{{Additional Documents}}
{{Additional Documents end}}
{{Additional links and references header}}
{{Additional links and references footer}}
{{Supplementary Information}}
{{Toggle content end}}

Case study:RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)

2025-12-18T13:17:26Z

Ecopatrimonio:

{{Motivations}}
{{Project background
|Project started=2025-05-09
|Works started=2025-10-25
|Total cost category=more than 10000 k€
|Total1 cost=1426.461552
|Funding sources=Recovery Transformation and Resilience Plan
}}
{{Site
|Name=Meandro Chico del Vivillo
|WFD water body code=ES070MSPF
|WFD (national) typology=ES070MSPF002080115
|WFD water body name=Segura River
|Pre-project morphology=Artificial channel, Low gradient passively meandering
|Reference morphology=Low gradient passively meandering
|Desired post project morphology=Low gradient passively meandering, Reinforced banks
|Heavily modified water body=Yes
|Site designation=Spain - Parque Periurbano
|Local site designation=Metropolitan Green Belt, Habitats of Community Interest
|Protected species present=Yes
|Invasive species present=Yes
|Species=Arundo donax, Populus alba, Phoenix dactilyfera
|Dominant hydrology=Artificially regulated
|Dominant substrate=Pebble, Silt
|River corridor land use=Orchard, Urban
|Average bankfull channel width category=5 - 10 m
|Avrg bankfull channel width=12.10
|Average bankfull channel depth category=0.5 - 2 m
|Avrg1 bankfull channel depth=1
|Mean discharge category=0.1 - 1.0 m³/s
|Mn discharge=0.3
|Average channel gradient category=Less than 0.001
|Avrg channel gradient=0.0007
}}
{{Project overview
|Status=In progress
|Themes=Environmental flows and water resources, Flood risk management, Habitat and biodiversity, Hydromorphology, Land use management - agriculture, Land use management - forestry, Social benefits, Spatial planning, Urban, Water quality
|Country=Spain
|Main contact forename=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact surname=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact id=Ayuntamiento de Murcia
|Contact organisation=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Contact organisation url=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Multi-site=No
|Project summary=The project is part of a joint strategy developed since 2017 by the City Council of Murcia and the Universities of Murcia and Cartagena (UPCT) aimed at the environmental restoration of the Segura River and its former meanders in the western area of the municipality. This global strategy, completed in 2019, defines 26 types of environmental and territorial actions applied to 27 specific river sections, focusing on riverbed restoration, riparian revegetation, agroecological recovery of the huerta, flood risk management, improvement of paths and connectivity, enhancement of hydraulic heritage, and environmental education.

The areas of intervention are classified according to their morphology (large meanders, medium meanders, small bends, fluvial terraces, and connecting areas). Four of these were prioritized due to their social, environmental, and administrative relevance, including the Meandro Chico del Vivillo. These areas allow improvements in the river’s longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity, the recovery of biodiversity, the reduction of flood risk, and the creation of new green spaces close to densely populated urban areas.

The Vivillo Meander project was developed as a preliminary design and received European funding through the Biodiversity Foundation within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan. Its objective is to reverse the negative impacts of river channelization carried out since the 1970s, which straightened the river, eliminated meanders, and disconnected it from its floodplain, leading to a loss of fluvial dynamics and biodiversity.

The proposal is based on contemporary river restoration principles that promote the recovery of natural river geomorphology, reconnection with the floodplain, enhancement of riparian forests, and the creation of diverse habitats, demonstrating that nature-based solutions are more effective and sustainable than traditional channelization approaches for flood management.
|Monitoring surveys and results=1. Strategic and Planning Results
• A global environmental restoration strategy was defined for the Segura River in the western area of the municipality of Murcia, structured into:
o 26 types of actions (9 general actions applicable to the entire proposal and 17 specific actions for defined areas).
o 27 specific intervention areas between La Contraparada and the city of Murcia.
• Four priority preliminary design projects were developed: Rambla de la Ventosa, Meandro Chico del Vivillo, Meandro del Molino de la Rosquilla, and Meandro del Molino de Funes.
2. Administrative and Funding Results
• The Fluvial Restoration Project of the former Segura River channel at the Vivillo Meander was:
o Submitted to the Fundación Biodiversidad grant call (NextGenerationEU).
o Awarded funding of €1,670,158.9 in September 2022.
• The preliminary design was reviewed by the Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura (CHS), which issued technical considerations in June 2023.
• The drafting of the project was commissioned to Urbanizadora Municipal S.A. (URBAMUSA), with technical assistance provided by the Polytechnic University of Cartagena.
3. Environmental Diagnostic Results
• The channelization works carried out between the 1970s and 1990s:
o Caused a loss of the river’s natural alignment, riverbed, and riparian zones.
o Led to a disconnection between the active channel and the floodplain.
o Resulted in 20 abandoned meanders within the Region of Murcia.
• The current river reach is characterized by:
o A homogeneous and rectilinear morphology.
o Widespread invasion by Arundo donax (giant reed).
o The absence of a functional riparian forest.
4. Fluvial Connectivity Results
• A significant deterioration of fluvial connectivity was identified:
o Longitudinal connectivity: lack of continuous riparian vegetation.
o Lateral connectivity: disconnection between the river channel and the floodplain.
o Vertical connectivity: alteration of subsurface and groundwater flows.
• The recovery of abandoned meanders would:
o Increase habitat diversity.
o Enhance the ecological resilience of the fluvial system.
5. Hydraulic Analysis and Flood Risk Results
• According to the Flood Hazard and Risk Maps (MPRI):
o No significant flood risk exists for return periods of 10 and 50 years.
o The entire intervention area is flood-prone for return periods of 100 and 500 years.
• The project area is included within a Preferential Flow Zone (PFZ).
• A hydraulic study using HEC-RAS was conducted, comparing scenarios:
o Without implementation of the meander restoration.
o With implementation of the meander restoration.
• The results confirm that the proposed intervention:
o Does not increase flood risk upstream or downstream.
o Improves flood attenuation capacity during extreme events.
6. Urban Planning and Legal Compliance Results
• The intervention area is fully compatible with the Plan General de Organización Urbanística (PGOU):
o Classified as a Hydraulic General System and Green/Open Space System.
• The project:
o Is entirely located within the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Complies with the Spanish Water Law and the Regulations of the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Meets fluvial restoration and ecological continuity criteria.
7. Overall Project Outcome
• The proposal:
o Restores a more natural fluvial morphology.
o Enhances ecological connectivity.
o Reduces flood risk through nature-based solutions.
o Demonstrates technical, environmental, urban planning, and legal feasibility.
|Lessons learn=1. The historical channelization of the Segura River, mainly carried out between the 1970s and 1990s, reduced immediate flood risk but resulted in a significant loss of natural fluvial dynamics, ecological connectivity, and floodplain functionality.
2. The disconnection between the current river channel and the abandoned meanders has led to marked environmental degradation, characterized by morphological homogenization, the disappearance of riparian forests, and the spread of invasive species such as Arundo donax.
3. The Meandro Chico del Vivillo area shows a high potential for fluvial restoration, as it is a former river bend located within the Public Hydraulic Domain, with minimal impact on private land and full urban planning compatibility.
4. The recovery of the former meander through channel widening and riparian revegetation will significantly improve longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity of the fluvial system, increasing habitat diversity and enhancing the ecological resilience of the Segura River.
5. The hydraulic studies conducted demonstrate that the proposed intervention does not increase flood risk for the analyzed return periods and contributes to improved flood attenuation during extreme flood events.
6. The intervention complies with current water, land-use planning, and flood risk management regulations, and is aligned with fluvial restoration principles and nature-based solutions.
7. The project represents a strategic and replicable action for the environmental recovery of the Segura River fluvial corridor, providing environmental, social, and landscape benefits, and strengthening institutional cooperation between public administrations and universities.
|Project title=RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)
}}
{{Case study status
|Approval status=Draft
}}
{{Location
|Location=37.98043, -1.17378
}}

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{{Toggle content start}}
{{Case study subcatchment}}

{{Measures}}
{{Hydromorphological quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Biological quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Physico-chemical quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Other responses header}}
{{End table}}
{{Monitoring documents}}
{{Monitoring documents end}}
{{Additional Documents}}
{{Additional Documents end}}
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Case study:RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)

2025-12-18T13:12:28Z

Ecopatrimonio:

{{Project background
|Project started=2025-05-09
|Works started=2025-10-25
|Total cost category=more than 10000 k€
|Total1 cost=1426.461552
|Funding sources=Recovery Transformation and Resilience Plan
}}
{{Site
|Name=Meandro Chico del Vivillo
|WFD water body code=ES070MSPF
|WFD (national) typology=ES070MSPF002080115
|WFD water body name=Segura River
|Pre-project morphology=Artificial channel, Low gradient passively meandering
|Reference morphology=Low gradient passively meandering
|Desired post project morphology=Low gradient passively meandering, Reinforced banks
|Heavily modified water body=Yes
|Site designation=Spain - Parque Periurbano
|Local site designation=Metropolitan Green Belt, Habitats of Community Interest
|Protected species present=Yes
|Invasive species present=Yes
|Species=Arundo donax, Populus alba, Phoenix dactilyfera
|Dominant hydrology=Artificially regulated
|Dominant substrate=Pebble, Silt
|River corridor land use=Orchard, Urban
|Average bankfull channel width category=5 - 10 m
|Avrg bankfull channel width=12.10
|Average bankfull channel depth category=0.5 - 2 m
|Avrg1 bankfull channel depth=1
|Mean discharge category=0.1 - 1.0 m³/s
|Mn discharge=0.3
|Average channel gradient category=Less than 0.001
|Avrg channel gradient=0.0007
}}
{{Project overview
|Status=In progress
|Themes=Environmental flows and water resources, Flood risk management, Habitat and biodiversity, Hydromorphology, Land use management - agriculture, Land use management - forestry, Social benefits, Spatial planning, Urban, Water quality
|Country=Spain
|Main contact forename=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact surname=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact id=Ayuntamiento de Murcia
|Contact organisation=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Contact organisation url=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Multi-site=No
|Project summary=The project is part of a joint strategy developed since 2017 by the City Council of Murcia and the Universities of Murcia and Cartagena (UPCT) aimed at the environmental restoration of the Segura River and its former meanders in the western area of the municipality. This global strategy, completed in 2019, defines 26 types of environmental and territorial actions applied to 27 specific river sections, focusing on riverbed restoration, riparian revegetation, agroecological recovery of the huerta, flood risk management, improvement of paths and connectivity, enhancement of hydraulic heritage, and environmental education.

The areas of intervention are classified according to their morphology (large meanders, medium meanders, small bends, fluvial terraces, and connecting areas). Four of these were prioritized due to their social, environmental, and administrative relevance, including the Meandro Chico del Vivillo. These areas allow improvements in the river’s longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity, the recovery of biodiversity, the reduction of flood risk, and the creation of new green spaces close to densely populated urban areas.

The Vivillo Meander project was developed as a preliminary design and received European funding through the Biodiversity Foundation within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan. Its objective is to reverse the negative impacts of river channelization carried out since the 1970s, which straightened the river, eliminated meanders, and disconnected it from its floodplain, leading to a loss of fluvial dynamics and biodiversity.

The proposal is based on contemporary river restoration principles that promote the recovery of natural river geomorphology, reconnection with the floodplain, enhancement of riparian forests, and the creation of diverse habitats, demonstrating that nature-based solutions are more effective and sustainable than traditional channelization approaches for flood management.
|Monitoring surveys and results=1. Strategic and Planning Results
• A global environmental restoration strategy was defined for the Segura River in the western area of the municipality of Murcia, structured into:
o 26 types of actions (9 general actions applicable to the entire proposal and 17 specific actions for defined areas).
o 27 specific intervention areas between La Contraparada and the city of Murcia.
• Four priority preliminary design projects were developed: Rambla de la Ventosa, Meandro Chico del Vivillo, Meandro del Molino de la Rosquilla, and Meandro del Molino de Funes.
2. Administrative and Funding Results
• The Fluvial Restoration Project of the former Segura River channel at the Vivillo Meander was:
o Submitted to the Fundación Biodiversidad grant call (NextGenerationEU).
o Awarded funding of €1,670,158.9 in September 2022.
• The preliminary design was reviewed by the Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura (CHS), which issued technical considerations in June 2023.
• The drafting of the project was commissioned to Urbanizadora Municipal S.A. (URBAMUSA), with technical assistance provided by the Polytechnic University of Cartagena.
3. Environmental Diagnostic Results
• The channelization works carried out between the 1970s and 1990s:
o Caused a loss of the river’s natural alignment, riverbed, and riparian zones.
o Led to a disconnection between the active channel and the floodplain.
o Resulted in 20 abandoned meanders within the Region of Murcia.
• The current river reach is characterized by:
o A homogeneous and rectilinear morphology.
o Widespread invasion by Arundo donax (giant reed).
o The absence of a functional riparian forest.
4. Fluvial Connectivity Results
• A significant deterioration of fluvial connectivity was identified:
o Longitudinal connectivity: lack of continuous riparian vegetation.
o Lateral connectivity: disconnection between the river channel and the floodplain.
o Vertical connectivity: alteration of subsurface and groundwater flows.
• The recovery of abandoned meanders would:
o Increase habitat diversity.
o Enhance the ecological resilience of the fluvial system.
5. Hydraulic Analysis and Flood Risk Results
• According to the Flood Hazard and Risk Maps (MPRI):
o No significant flood risk exists for return periods of 10 and 50 years.
o The entire intervention area is flood-prone for return periods of 100 and 500 years.
• The project area is included within a Preferential Flow Zone (PFZ).
• A hydraulic study using HEC-RAS was conducted, comparing scenarios:
o Without implementation of the meander restoration.
o With implementation of the meander restoration.
• The results confirm that the proposed intervention:
o Does not increase flood risk upstream or downstream.
o Improves flood attenuation capacity during extreme events.
6. Urban Planning and Legal Compliance Results
• The intervention area is fully compatible with the Plan General de Organización Urbanística (PGOU):
o Classified as a Hydraulic General System and Green/Open Space System.
• The project:
o Is entirely located within the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Complies with the Spanish Water Law and the Regulations of the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Meets fluvial restoration and ecological continuity criteria.
7. Overall Project Outcome
• The proposal:
o Restores a more natural fluvial morphology.
o Enhances ecological connectivity.
o Reduces flood risk through nature-based solutions.
o Demonstrates technical, environmental, urban planning, and legal feasibility.
|Lessons learn=1. The historical channelization of the Segura River, mainly carried out between the 1970s and 1990s, reduced immediate flood risk but resulted in a significant loss of natural fluvial dynamics, ecological connectivity, and floodplain functionality.
2. The disconnection between the current river channel and the abandoned meanders has led to marked environmental degradation, characterized by morphological homogenization, the disappearance of riparian forests, and the spread of invasive species such as Arundo donax.
3. The Meandro Chico del Vivillo area shows a high potential for fluvial restoration, as it is a former river bend located within the Public Hydraulic Domain, with minimal impact on private land and full urban planning compatibility.
4. The recovery of the former meander through channel widening and riparian revegetation will significantly improve longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity of the fluvial system, increasing habitat diversity and enhancing the ecological resilience of the Segura River.
5. The hydraulic studies conducted demonstrate that the proposed intervention does not increase flood risk for the analyzed return periods and contributes to improved flood attenuation during extreme flood events.
6. The intervention complies with current water, land-use planning, and flood risk management regulations, and is aligned with fluvial restoration principles and nature-based solutions.
7. The project represents a strategic and replicable action for the environmental recovery of the Segura River fluvial corridor, providing environmental, social, and landscape benefits, and strengthening institutional cooperation between public administrations and universities.
|Project title=RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)
}}
{{Case study status
|Approval status=Draft
}}
{{Location
|Location=37.98043, -1.17378
}}

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Case study:RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)

2025-12-18T13:08:10Z

Ecopatrimonio:

{{Site
|Name=Meandro Chico del Vivillo
|WFD water body code=ES070MSPF
|WFD (national) typology=ES070MSPF002080115
|WFD water body name=Segura River
|Pre-project morphology=Artificial channel, Low gradient passively meandering
|Reference morphology=Low gradient passively meandering
|Desired post project morphology=Low gradient passively meandering, Reinforced banks
|Heavily modified water body=Yes
|Site designation=Spain - Parque Periurbano
|Local site designation=Metropolitan Green Belt, Habitats of Community Interest
|Protected species present=Yes
|Invasive species present=Yes
|Species=Arundo donax, Populus alba, Phoenix dactilyfera
|Dominant hydrology=Artificially regulated
|Dominant substrate=Pebble, Silt
|River corridor land use=Orchard, Urban
|Average bankfull channel width category=5 - 10 m
|Avrg bankfull channel width=12.10
|Average bankfull channel depth category=0.5 - 2 m
|Avrg1 bankfull channel depth=1
|Mean discharge category=0.1 - 1.0 m³/s
|Mn discharge=0.3
|Average channel gradient category=Less than 0.001
|Avrg channel gradient=0.0007
}}
{{Project overview
|Status=In progress
|Themes=Environmental flows and water resources, Flood risk management, Habitat and biodiversity, Hydromorphology, Land use management - agriculture, Land use management - forestry, Social benefits, Spatial planning, Urban, Water quality
|Country=Spain
|Main contact forename=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact surname=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact id=Ayuntamiento de Murcia
|Contact organisation=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Contact organisation url=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Multi-site=No
|Project summary=The project is part of a joint strategy developed since 2017 by the City Council of Murcia and the Universities of Murcia and Cartagena (UPCT) aimed at the environmental restoration of the Segura River and its former meanders in the western area of the municipality. This global strategy, completed in 2019, defines 26 types of environmental and territorial actions applied to 27 specific river sections, focusing on riverbed restoration, riparian revegetation, agroecological recovery of the huerta, flood risk management, improvement of paths and connectivity, enhancement of hydraulic heritage, and environmental education.

The areas of intervention are classified according to their morphology (large meanders, medium meanders, small bends, fluvial terraces, and connecting areas). Four of these were prioritized due to their social, environmental, and administrative relevance, including the Meandro Chico del Vivillo. These areas allow improvements in the river’s longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity, the recovery of biodiversity, the reduction of flood risk, and the creation of new green spaces close to densely populated urban areas.

The Vivillo Meander project was developed as a preliminary design and received European funding through the Biodiversity Foundation within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan. Its objective is to reverse the negative impacts of river channelization carried out since the 1970s, which straightened the river, eliminated meanders, and disconnected it from its floodplain, leading to a loss of fluvial dynamics and biodiversity.

The proposal is based on contemporary river restoration principles that promote the recovery of natural river geomorphology, reconnection with the floodplain, enhancement of riparian forests, and the creation of diverse habitats, demonstrating that nature-based solutions are more effective and sustainable than traditional channelization approaches for flood management.
|Monitoring surveys and results=1. Strategic and Planning Results
• A global environmental restoration strategy was defined for the Segura River in the western area of the municipality of Murcia, structured into:
o 26 types of actions (9 general actions applicable to the entire proposal and 17 specific actions for defined areas).
o 27 specific intervention areas between La Contraparada and the city of Murcia.
• Four priority preliminary design projects were developed: Rambla de la Ventosa, Meandro Chico del Vivillo, Meandro del Molino de la Rosquilla, and Meandro del Molino de Funes.
2. Administrative and Funding Results
• The Fluvial Restoration Project of the former Segura River channel at the Vivillo Meander was:
o Submitted to the Fundación Biodiversidad grant call (NextGenerationEU).
o Awarded funding of €1,670,158.9 in September 2022.
• The preliminary design was reviewed by the Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura (CHS), which issued technical considerations in June 2023.
• The drafting of the project was commissioned to Urbanizadora Municipal S.A. (URBAMUSA), with technical assistance provided by the Polytechnic University of Cartagena.
3. Environmental Diagnostic Results
• The channelization works carried out between the 1970s and 1990s:
o Caused a loss of the river’s natural alignment, riverbed, and riparian zones.
o Led to a disconnection between the active channel and the floodplain.
o Resulted in 20 abandoned meanders within the Region of Murcia.
• The current river reach is characterized by:
o A homogeneous and rectilinear morphology.
o Widespread invasion by Arundo donax (giant reed).
o The absence of a functional riparian forest.
4. Fluvial Connectivity Results
• A significant deterioration of fluvial connectivity was identified:
o Longitudinal connectivity: lack of continuous riparian vegetation.
o Lateral connectivity: disconnection between the river channel and the floodplain.
o Vertical connectivity: alteration of subsurface and groundwater flows.
• The recovery of abandoned meanders would:
o Increase habitat diversity.
o Enhance the ecological resilience of the fluvial system.
5. Hydraulic Analysis and Flood Risk Results
• According to the Flood Hazard and Risk Maps (MPRI):
o No significant flood risk exists for return periods of 10 and 50 years.
o The entire intervention area is flood-prone for return periods of 100 and 500 years.
• The project area is included within a Preferential Flow Zone (PFZ).
• A hydraulic study using HEC-RAS was conducted, comparing scenarios:
o Without implementation of the meander restoration.
o With implementation of the meander restoration.
• The results confirm that the proposed intervention:
o Does not increase flood risk upstream or downstream.
o Improves flood attenuation capacity during extreme events.
6. Urban Planning and Legal Compliance Results
• The intervention area is fully compatible with the Plan General de Organización Urbanística (PGOU):
o Classified as a Hydraulic General System and Green/Open Space System.
• The project:
o Is entirely located within the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Complies with the Spanish Water Law and the Regulations of the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Meets fluvial restoration and ecological continuity criteria.
7. Overall Project Outcome
• The proposal:
o Restores a more natural fluvial morphology.
o Enhances ecological connectivity.
o Reduces flood risk through nature-based solutions.
o Demonstrates technical, environmental, urban planning, and legal feasibility.
|Lessons learn=1. The historical channelization of the Segura River, mainly carried out between the 1970s and 1990s, reduced immediate flood risk but resulted in a significant loss of natural fluvial dynamics, ecological connectivity, and floodplain functionality.
2. The disconnection between the current river channel and the abandoned meanders has led to marked environmental degradation, characterized by morphological homogenization, the disappearance of riparian forests, and the spread of invasive species such as Arundo donax.
3. The Meandro Chico del Vivillo area shows a high potential for fluvial restoration, as it is a former river bend located within the Public Hydraulic Domain, with minimal impact on private land and full urban planning compatibility.
4. The recovery of the former meander through channel widening and riparian revegetation will significantly improve longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity of the fluvial system, increasing habitat diversity and enhancing the ecological resilience of the Segura River.
5. The hydraulic studies conducted demonstrate that the proposed intervention does not increase flood risk for the analyzed return periods and contributes to improved flood attenuation during extreme flood events.
6. The intervention complies with current water, land-use planning, and flood risk management regulations, and is aligned with fluvial restoration principles and nature-based solutions.
7. The project represents a strategic and replicable action for the environmental recovery of the Segura River fluvial corridor, providing environmental, social, and landscape benefits, and strengthening institutional cooperation between public administrations and universities.
|Project title=RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)
}}
{{Case study status
|Approval status=Draft
}}
{{Location
|Location=37.98043, -1.17378
}}

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{{Project background}}
{{Motivations}}
{{Measures}}
{{Hydromorphological quality elements header}}
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{{Biological quality elements header}}
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{{Physico-chemical quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
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Case study:RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)

2025-12-18T13:07:57Z

Ecopatrimonio:

{{Site
|Name=Meandro Chico del Vivillo
|WFD water body code=ES070MSPF
|WFD (national) typology=ES070MSPF002080115
|WFD water body name=Segura River
|Pre-project morphology=Artificial channel, Low gradient passively meandering
|Reference morphology=Low gradient passively meandering
|Desired post project morphology=Low gradient passively meandering, Reinforced banks
|Heavily modified water body=Yes
|Site designation=Spain - Parque Periurbano
|Local site designation=Metropolitan Green Belt, Habitats of Community Interest
|Protected species present=Yes
|Invasive species present=No
|Species=Arundo donax, Populus alba, Phoenix dactilyfera
|Dominant hydrology=Artificially regulated
|Dominant substrate=Pebble, Silt
|River corridor land use=Urban, Orchard
|Average bankfull channel width category=5 - 10 m
|Avrg bankfull channel width=12.10
|Average bankfull channel depth category=0.5 - 2 m
|Avrg1 bankfull channel depth=1
|Mean discharge category=0.1 - 1.0 m³/s
|Mn discharge=0.3
|Average channel gradient category=Less than 0.001
|Avrg channel gradient=0.0007
}}
{{Project overview
|Status=In progress
|Themes=Environmental flows and water resources, Flood risk management, Habitat and biodiversity, Hydromorphology, Land use management - agriculture, Land use management - forestry, Social benefits, Spatial planning, Urban, Water quality
|Country=Spain
|Main contact forename=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact surname=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact id=Ayuntamiento de Murcia
|Contact organisation=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Contact organisation url=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Multi-site=No
|Project summary=The project is part of a joint strategy developed since 2017 by the City Council of Murcia and the Universities of Murcia and Cartagena (UPCT) aimed at the environmental restoration of the Segura River and its former meanders in the western area of the municipality. This global strategy, completed in 2019, defines 26 types of environmental and territorial actions applied to 27 specific river sections, focusing on riverbed restoration, riparian revegetation, agroecological recovery of the huerta, flood risk management, improvement of paths and connectivity, enhancement of hydraulic heritage, and environmental education.

The areas of intervention are classified according to their morphology (large meanders, medium meanders, small bends, fluvial terraces, and connecting areas). Four of these were prioritized due to their social, environmental, and administrative relevance, including the Meandro Chico del Vivillo. These areas allow improvements in the river’s longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity, the recovery of biodiversity, the reduction of flood risk, and the creation of new green spaces close to densely populated urban areas.

The Vivillo Meander project was developed as a preliminary design and received European funding through the Biodiversity Foundation within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan. Its objective is to reverse the negative impacts of river channelization carried out since the 1970s, which straightened the river, eliminated meanders, and disconnected it from its floodplain, leading to a loss of fluvial dynamics and biodiversity.

The proposal is based on contemporary river restoration principles that promote the recovery of natural river geomorphology, reconnection with the floodplain, enhancement of riparian forests, and the creation of diverse habitats, demonstrating that nature-based solutions are more effective and sustainable than traditional channelization approaches for flood management.
|Monitoring surveys and results=1. Strategic and Planning Results
• A global environmental restoration strategy was defined for the Segura River in the western area of the municipality of Murcia, structured into:
o 26 types of actions (9 general actions applicable to the entire proposal and 17 specific actions for defined areas).
o 27 specific intervention areas between La Contraparada and the city of Murcia.
• Four priority preliminary design projects were developed: Rambla de la Ventosa, Meandro Chico del Vivillo, Meandro del Molino de la Rosquilla, and Meandro del Molino de Funes.
2. Administrative and Funding Results
• The Fluvial Restoration Project of the former Segura River channel at the Vivillo Meander was:
o Submitted to the Fundación Biodiversidad grant call (NextGenerationEU).
o Awarded funding of €1,670,158.9 in September 2022.
• The preliminary design was reviewed by the Confederación Hidrográfica del Segura (CHS), which issued technical considerations in June 2023.
• The drafting of the project was commissioned to Urbanizadora Municipal S.A. (URBAMUSA), with technical assistance provided by the Polytechnic University of Cartagena.
3. Environmental Diagnostic Results
• The channelization works carried out between the 1970s and 1990s:
o Caused a loss of the river’s natural alignment, riverbed, and riparian zones.
o Led to a disconnection between the active channel and the floodplain.
o Resulted in 20 abandoned meanders within the Region of Murcia.
• The current river reach is characterized by:
o A homogeneous and rectilinear morphology.
o Widespread invasion by Arundo donax (giant reed).
o The absence of a functional riparian forest.
4. Fluvial Connectivity Results
• A significant deterioration of fluvial connectivity was identified:
o Longitudinal connectivity: lack of continuous riparian vegetation.
o Lateral connectivity: disconnection between the river channel and the floodplain.
o Vertical connectivity: alteration of subsurface and groundwater flows.
• The recovery of abandoned meanders would:
o Increase habitat diversity.
o Enhance the ecological resilience of the fluvial system.
5. Hydraulic Analysis and Flood Risk Results
• According to the Flood Hazard and Risk Maps (MPRI):
o No significant flood risk exists for return periods of 10 and 50 years.
o The entire intervention area is flood-prone for return periods of 100 and 500 years.
• The project area is included within a Preferential Flow Zone (PFZ).
• A hydraulic study using HEC-RAS was conducted, comparing scenarios:
o Without implementation of the meander restoration.
o With implementation of the meander restoration.
• The results confirm that the proposed intervention:
o Does not increase flood risk upstream or downstream.
o Improves flood attenuation capacity during extreme events.
6. Urban Planning and Legal Compliance Results
• The intervention area is fully compatible with the Plan General de Organización Urbanística (PGOU):
o Classified as a Hydraulic General System and Green/Open Space System.
• The project:
o Is entirely located within the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Complies with the Spanish Water Law and the Regulations of the Public Hydraulic Domain.
o Meets fluvial restoration and ecological continuity criteria.
7. Overall Project Outcome
• The proposal:
o Restores a more natural fluvial morphology.
o Enhances ecological connectivity.
o Reduces flood risk through nature-based solutions.
o Demonstrates technical, environmental, urban planning, and legal feasibility.
|Lessons learn=1. The historical channelization of the Segura River, mainly carried out between the 1970s and 1990s, reduced immediate flood risk but resulted in a significant loss of natural fluvial dynamics, ecological connectivity, and floodplain functionality.
2. The disconnection between the current river channel and the abandoned meanders has led to marked environmental degradation, characterized by morphological homogenization, the disappearance of riparian forests, and the spread of invasive species such as Arundo donax.
3. The Meandro Chico del Vivillo area shows a high potential for fluvial restoration, as it is a former river bend located within the Public Hydraulic Domain, with minimal impact on private land and full urban planning compatibility.
4. The recovery of the former meander through channel widening and riparian revegetation will significantly improve longitudinal, lateral, and vertical connectivity of the fluvial system, increasing habitat diversity and enhancing the ecological resilience of the Segura River.
5. The hydraulic studies conducted demonstrate that the proposed intervention does not increase flood risk for the analyzed return periods and contributes to improved flood attenuation during extreme flood events.
6. The intervention complies with current water, land-use planning, and flood risk management regulations, and is aligned with fluvial restoration principles and nature-based solutions.
7. The project represents a strategic and replicable action for the environmental recovery of the Segura River fluvial corridor, providing environmental, social, and landscape benefits, and strengthening institutional cooperation between public administrations and universities.
|Project title=RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)
}}
{{Case study status
|Approval status=Draft
}}
{{Location
|Location=37.98043, -1.17378
}}

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Case study:RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)

2025-12-18T13:00:29Z

Ecopatrimonio:

Case study:RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)

2025-12-16T11:41:21Z

Ecopatrimonio:

Case study:RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)

2025-12-16T11:24:13Z

Ecopatrimonio: Created page with "{{Case study status |Approval status=Draft }} {{Location |Location=37.98043, -1.17378 }} {{Project overview |Project title=RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA) |Status=In progress |Themes=Environmental flows and water resources, Flood risk management, Habitat and biodiversity, Hydromorphology, Land use management - agriculture, Land use management - forestry, Social benefits, Spatial planning, Urban, Water quality |Country..."

{{Case study status
|Approval status=Draft
}}
{{Location
|Location=37.98043, -1.17378
}}
{{Project overview
|Project title=RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT OF THE OLD SEGURA RIVER BED IN THE VIVILLO MEANDER (MURCIA)
|Status=In progress
|Themes=Environmental flows and water resources, Flood risk management, Habitat and biodiversity, Hydromorphology, Land use management - agriculture, Land use management - forestry, Social benefits, Spatial planning, Urban, Water quality
|Country=Spain
|Main contact forename=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact surname=Ecopatrimonio
|Main contact id=Ayuntamiento de Murcia
|Contact organisation=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Contact organisation url=Ecopatrimonio Proyectos y Servicios SLU
|Multi-site=No
}}
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{{Toggle content start}}
{{Case study subcatchment}}
{{Site}}
{{Project background}}
{{Motivations}}
{{Measures}}
{{Hydromorphological quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Biological quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Physico-chemical quality elements header}}
{{End table}}
{{Other responses header}}
{{End table}}
{{Monitoring documents}}
{{Monitoring documents end}}
{{Additional Documents}}
{{Additional Documents end}}
{{Additional links and references header}}
{{Additional links and references footer}}
{{Supplementary Information}}
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