European Rewilding Network
ERN2403

Laguna del Re

Coastal wetland restoration

Laguna del Re Oasis: A stunning wetland where winding waterways and lush marshlands create a serene, biodiverse landscape.
Salvatore Giannino
A panoramic view of the wetland and the Gargano mountains: This stunning landscape showcases the harmonious coexistence of nature and human settlements, with the wetlands in the foreground providing a crucial habitat for biodiversity.
Salvatore Giannino
Reflections of Nature: The interplay of light and clouds enhances the serene beauty of this wetland habitat, where water, vegetation, and sky merge in a dynamic balance of nature.
Michela Ingaramo
Serenity at dusk: The sunset casts a warm glow over the tranquil lagoon, where a wooden hut and pier stand reflected in the still waters.
Michela Ingaramo
Sunset over the Laguna del Re: A breathtaking view of the wooden walkway leading to the observation hut, where visitors admire the tranquil beauty of this restored wetland. This site, rich in biodiversity, plays a crucial role in conservation and eco-tourism.
Salvatore Giannino
Grace in motion: A purple heron soars through the sky, showcasing its elegant wings and striking colors.
Mario Lacetera

The Oasis is the result of a LIFE+09 NAT/IT/000150 project “Conservation interventions for the habitats of coastal wetlands in the Capitanata wetland SCI” in partnership with the Capitanata Reclamation Consortium and with the Puglia Region thanks to which, following the demolition of numerous illegal buildings, work was carried out for the hydraulic re-functionalisation of the lagoon with the reopening of canals, excavation of valleys and the installation of bodies to regulate the inflow and outflow of water.
The aim of the project was to revive a piece of the landscape of the coastal wetlands of Capitanata.
This new area was granted to CSN on free loan in 2019, for 20 years, by the owner, the Capitanata Reclamation Consortium.
Our management strategy is based on three pillars:
1. Conservation of biodiversity
2. Naturalistic enjoyment
3. Regenerative agriculture

In March 2023 the CSN received a special mention from the Ministry of Culture as part of the National Landscape Award, as an example of environmental and landscape restoration in a coastal area, public enjoyment and highly proactive role of associations.

Specification Description Achievements Exchange
Project: Laguna del Re
Region: Foggia, Italy
Aim and vision: Laguna del Re Oasis envisions a conservation model where wetland biodiversity thrives alongside restored natural resources.
Our goal is to shift cultural perspectives, fostering a society that respects and coexists with nature. Through innovation in science, technology, and sustainable agriculture, we enhance ecosystems while preserving natural capital. This balance supports both environmental protection and economic growth, promoting responsible tourism and a sustainable future for all."
Other activities: Community involved, Eco tourism, Education, Recreational activities, Research, Sale of sustainable products
Results you aim to accomplish in 10 years from now on: Expanding coastal wetland conservation by incorporating adjacent abandoned areas to enhance biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.
Maintaining and increasing biodiversity through a mosaic of wetland and agricultural habitats that preserve ecological functionality, natural capital, and ecosystem services.
Promoting local socio-economic development through regenerative agriculture and permaculture, fostering stable and productive agroecosystems.
Encouraging responsible tourism by enhancing visitor experiences and cultural appreciation of the wetland.
Inspirational value: The restoration of the Laguna del Re Oasis showcases the power of rewilding, transforming a reclaimed wetland into a thriving ecosystem. The EU LIFE project demonstrated how restoring degraded landscapes can revive biodiversity, enhance ecosystem services, and balance conservation with sustainable land use. By integrating responsible nature-based tourism, regulated agriculture, and habitat restoration, the initiative highlights how nature and human activity can coexist. The Oasis now serves as a model for wetland recovery, inspiring future projects across Europe.
Experience you would like to share: Our work with habitat restoration projects, pilot projects in the field of nature conservation, and circular economy in a natural protected area.
Experience you would like to gain: Empowering communities to lead efforts in combating climate change, restoring biodiversity, and safeguarding wetlands through sustainable, locally driven initiatives.
Map
Country
Italy
Start year
2010
Size (ha)
40
Area type
Marine: coastal, Wetlands
Natural process
Wetland dynamics
Flagship species
Heron, Otter
Laguna del Re
Laguna del Re
Laguna del Re
Laguna del Re Oasis: A stunning wetland where winding waterways and lush marshlands create a serene, biodiverse landscape.
Salvatore Giannino
A panoramic view of the wetland and the Gargano mountains: This stunning landscape showcases the harmonious coexistence of nature and human settlements, with the wetlands in the foreground providing a crucial habitat for biodiversity.
Salvatore Giannino
Reflections of Nature: The interplay of light and clouds enhances the serene beauty of this wetland habitat, where water, vegetation, and sky merge in a dynamic balance of nature.
Michela Ingaramo
Serenity at dusk: The sunset casts a warm glow over the tranquil lagoon, where a wooden hut and pier stand reflected in the still waters.
Michela Ingaramo
Sunset over the Laguna del Re: A breathtaking view of the wooden walkway leading to the observation hut, where visitors admire the tranquil beauty of this restored wetland. This site, rich in biodiversity, plays a crucial role in conservation and eco-tourism.
Salvatore Giannino
Grace in motion: A purple heron soars through the sky, showcasing its elegant wings and striking colors.
Mario Lacetera

The Oasis is the result of a LIFE+09 NAT/IT/000150 project “Conservation interventions for the habitats of coastal wetlands in the Capitanata wetland SCI” in partnership with the Capitanata Reclamation Consortium and with the Puglia Region thanks to which, following the demolition of numerous illegal buildings, work was carried out for the hydraulic re-functionalisation of the lagoon with the reopening of canals, excavation of valleys and the installation of bodies to regulate the inflow and outflow of water.
The aim of the project was to revive a piece of the landscape of the coastal wetlands of Capitanata.
This new area was granted to CSN on free loan in 2019, for 20 years, by the owner, the Capitanata Reclamation Consortium.
Our management strategy is based on three pillars:
1. Conservation of biodiversity
2. Naturalistic enjoyment
3. Regenerative agriculture

In March 2023 the CSN received a special mention from the Ministry of Culture as part of the National Landscape Award, as an example of environmental and landscape restoration in a coastal area, public enjoyment and highly proactive role of associations.

Map
Country
Italy
Start year
2010
Size (ha)
40
Area type
Marine: coastal, Wetlands
Natural process
Wetland dynamics
Flagship species
Heron, Otter
Specification
Project: Laguna del Re
Region: Foggia, Italy
Description
Aim and vision: Laguna del Re Oasis envisions a conservation model where wetland biodiversity thrives alongside restored natural resources.
Our goal is to shift cultural perspectives, fostering a society that respects and coexists with nature. Through innovation in science, technology, and sustainable agriculture, we enhance ecosystems while preserving natural capital. This balance supports both environmental protection and economic growth, promoting responsible tourism and a sustainable future for all."
Other activities: Community involved, Eco tourism, Education, Recreational activities, Research, Sale of sustainable products
Achievements
Results you aim to accomplish in 10 years from now on: Expanding coastal wetland conservation by incorporating adjacent abandoned areas to enhance biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.
Maintaining and increasing biodiversity through a mosaic of wetland and agricultural habitats that preserve ecological functionality, natural capital, and ecosystem services.
Promoting local socio-economic development through regenerative agriculture and permaculture, fostering stable and productive agroecosystems.
Encouraging responsible tourism by enhancing visitor experiences and cultural appreciation of the wetland.
Exchange
Inspirational value: The restoration of the Laguna del Re Oasis showcases the power of rewilding, transforming a reclaimed wetland into a thriving ecosystem. The EU LIFE project demonstrated how restoring degraded landscapes can revive biodiversity, enhance ecosystem services, and balance conservation with sustainable land use. By integrating responsible nature-based tourism, regulated agriculture, and habitat restoration, the initiative highlights how nature and human activity can coexist. The Oasis now serves as a model for wetland recovery, inspiring future projects across Europe.
Experience you would like to share: Our work with habitat restoration projects, pilot projects in the field of nature conservation, and circular economy in a natural protected area.
Experience you would like to gain: Empowering communities to lead efforts in combating climate change, restoring biodiversity, and safeguarding wetlands through sustainable, locally driven initiatives.
Laguna del Re
Laguna del Re
Laguna del Re
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.