Water bodies of Parque Dr. Mário Soares

Tipology

Aquatic plants
Ponds

Address

Lapa

Location

Cedofeita

Promoter

Municipality of Porto/CIIMAR

Presentation

With the construction of the Parque Dr. Mário Soares and the renaturalisation of this stretch of the Ribeira do Vilar, a water retention basin was built, as well as a small pond, both adjacent to the stream. This intervention made it possible to increase the biodiversity and phytodepuration capacity of the watercourse, improving environmental quality by planting various species of native aquatic plants. These strategically selected plants play a crucial role in increasing the ecosystem’s ability to filter pollutants, fix sediments and promote the natural purification of the water in this watercourse.
The rehabilitation of the streams and the construction of the retention basin were carried out as part of the MoRe project. The main objectives of this project are to increase knowledge of the city’s wetlands, mapping, biological inventory and characterisation, with a view to adopting conservation and restoration measures and creating new water bodies.

Ecological functions

Improvement of water quality; Improvement of quality of life; Promotion of biodiversity; Reduction of extreme climatic events; Regulation of air quality; Regulation of temperature; Regulation of floods; Carbon sequestration

Sustainable Development Goals

3 - Good Health and Well-Being; 11 - Sustainable Cities and Communities; 13 - Climate Action; 15 - Life on Land

OTHER SUGGESTIONS

A pond, once used for traditional purposes, was renaturalized by removing invasive plants and installing ramps for amphibians. Today it is a vital refuge for aquatic biodiversity, with several native species, promoting coexistence between nature and local agriculture.
A large retention basin that filters rainwater, reduces flooding and recharges aquifers. It supports biodiversity with important habitats for amphibians and aquatic plants. It also offers leisure areas, integrating urban functionality and environmental sustainability.
A pond that was built as part of the redevelopment of a school, which is right next door and which, in addition to its teaching function, also serves as a water retention basin for water from the school's roofs, an infiltration point for surplus water in the aquifers and a promoter of biodiversity.