Autumn River Walk in Coimbra strengthens the bond between people and nature

On October 18, the Centre for Marine and Environmental Sciences (MARE) of the Faculty of Sciences and Technology of the University of Coimbra (FCTUC) organized an Autumn River Walk along the Fornos River, in Torre de Vilela, as part of the European project OneAquaHealth.

The initiative brought together members of the local community for a moment of discovery and sharing about this watercourse, highlighting the importance of preserving its biodiversity and reinforcing the connection between people and their natural environment.

During the walk, participants had the opportunity to test the new OneAquaHealth Citizen Science app, developed to encourage citizens to participate in the monitoring and conservation of urban streams and rivers.

The visited section revealed a remarkable ecological diversity — riparian trees, aquatic plants, fish, invertebrates, amphibians, and birds — despite the widespread presence of giant reed (Arundo donax) along the banks.

The next River Walk is planned for Winter 2026, exploring another stream within the city of Coimbra, continuing to bring science and community closer together.

Author(s): Sónia R. Q. Serra (PhD), University of Coimbra