Wetlands are among the most valuable ecosystems on Earth, providing essential habitats for wildlife, improving water quality, and helping communities adapt to climate change. The RECI-OXBOW project was launched to restore two degraded oxbow lakes in the municipality of Reci, Covasna County, which have suffered decades of sediment accumulation, nutrient pollution, and biodiversity loss following river regulation works carried out in the 1970s.

Implemented through the FERRO initiative, the project brings together the Municipality of Reci, GREEN LIFE Association, and scientific experts from Sapientia Hungarian University of Transylvania to develop innovative, science-based solutions for wetland restoration. The project focuses on improving water quality, restoring habitats for birds, amphibians, and aquatic species, increasing climate resilience, and creating a sustainable recreational and educational natural area for the local community.

Our restoration approach combines smart sediment management, nutrient recycling technologies, scientific monitoring, and active community participation. By establishing the first comprehensive environmental baseline dataset for the Reci oxbow lakes—including sediment composition, phosphorus, nitrogen, and water quality analyses—we are creating a strong scientific foundation for future restoration and long-term ecosystem management.

Beyond ecological rehabilitation, RECI-OXBOW demonstrates how collaboration between local authorities, researchers, environmental organizations, and citizens can create lasting environmental impact. The project will improve biodiversity, strengthen climate adaptation, increase public awareness, and serve as a model for small-scale wetland restoration initiatives across Central and Eastern Europe.