The retention basins, constructed between
1975 and 1980 to control the floodwaters of the Secchia river,
consist of about 200 hectares of water and islands, where birds
of various species winter and nest (including the grey heron,
little egret, kestrel and widgeon). The entire area has been
incorporated in the 1500 hectares of the Riverside Park, which
also includes farmland, sand and gravel quarries, and areas for
water sports. Bird-watching and educational visits are encouraged,
with informative notices and a Visitors' Centre in the Corte di
Rubiera building, offering exhibitions, videos and publications.
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