Background The Parco del Delta del Po (Po Delta Park) is a protected wetlands region of 53 653 ha at the mouth of the River Po. It is the most complex system of wetlands in Italy, containing wetlands, forest, dunes and salt pans. It has a rich biodiversity, with around 1 000 plant and over 350 vertebrate species. It provides locations suitable for bird nesting and for the reproduction of amphibians and reptiles. However, vast portions of the wetlands have been drained and reclaimed. The remaining wetlands - known locally as valli - are used for extensive fish-farming activities. The main threat to the wetlands in the delta is water eutrophication, mainly caused by poor water circulation and salinity. Within the park, the SCI and SPA “Valli di Comacchio” is 90% public property, with about 80% devoted to extensive fish-farming. It contains two main basins: “Sacca di Scardovari” and “Valle Bagliona and Valle Ca’ Pisani.” In the Veneto Region, the valli are privately owned and occupy approximately a third of the entire area of the Natura 2000 site (SCI) “Delta del Po: tratto terminale e delta Veneto” and of the SPA, “Delta del Po.” Objectives The overall project objective is the conservation of habitats and species in the Natura 2000 sites of the River Po Delta. It aims to develop joint conservation actions between multiple public and private owners. The project specifically intends to improve water circulation and reduce eutrophication in the two main basins of the “Valli di Comacchio.” This should allow the restoration of several important habitats: coastal lagoons, Salicornia and other annual colonising mud and sand banks, Mediterranean salt meadows, Mediterranean and thermo-Atlantic holophilous scrubs, and Mediterranean salt steppes. Species conservation actions will include establishing about 8.7 ha of land and twenty artificial floating sites suitable for nesting of tern species (Sternidae) and the creation of eight freshwater ponds to promote the reproduction of amphibians. Specific actions will favour the reproduction of the European pond terrapin (Emys orbicularis) and the common spadefoot toad (Pelobates fuscus insubricus). Two new embankments will be installed for the common kingfisher (Alcedo atthis). Expected results: Improved water circulation and reduced eutrophication in Po delta area; Restoration of important delta habitats; Improvements in the conservation of target species, including terns, pond terrapins and toads.