Madrid reopens the wetlands of Velilla y Rivas after severe flood damage

The Community of Madrid has completed the restoration of the wetlands of Velilla and Soto de las Juntas, located in the Parque Regional del Sureste and included in the Natura 2000 Network. Both sites suffered serious damage after the storms and flooding of March 2025, which made several key areas for biodiversity conservation impassable.

At the Velilla lagoons, the banks and the barrier fence were eroded, while the roof of the birdwatching hide became unusable. The works have restored the hide's functionality, which is widely used by enthusiasts, and a new barrier fence has been installed to prevent future earth movements in the event of heavy rainfall.

At Soto de las Juntas, the storm swept away gravel and destroyed the path between the river and the lagoon, leaving it impassable. The work has made it possible to improve the entrance ford and create a new route 80 metres long and 2.5 metres wide, making access easier for visitors and experts.

Both wetlands form part of the Special Area of Conservation Vegas, Cuestas y Páramos del Sureste de Madrid. In addition, Soto de las Juntas is included in the Special Protection Area for Birds of the Aves Cortados y Cantiles de los Ríos Jarama y Manzanares. The investment, of 33,100 euros, has made it possible to restore the area while respecting wildlife and its breeding period, encouraging the presence of native species.