Estany d'Ivars i Vila-sana, Restored wetland in Ivars d'Urgell and Vila-sana, Catalonia, Spain.
Estany d'Ivars i Vila-sana covers 126 hectares with an average depth of less than two meters, making it the largest inland freshwater body in Catalonia surrounded by extensive cereal-growing plains.
Originally a natural endorheic lagoon, the lake was completely drained in 1951 for agricultural purposes and remained dry until its comprehensive ecological restoration began in the early 21st century.
The wetland serves as an important center for environmental education and ornithological tourism, hosting guided tours, bird ringing activities, and educational workshops that promote conservation awareness among local communities.
Visitors can access the lake through Cal Sinén farm information center, which coordinates guided excursions, bird ringing participation, and provides facilities including parking areas and observation points with binocular rental services.
The restoration project successfully reintroduced native species including otters that migrated from the nearby Segre River, while semi-wild horses graze around the perimeter, naturally maintaining the ecosystem's biodiversity.
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