Background The Comana wetland system is located south of Bucharest and includes the largest natural lake (about 800 ha) on the Romanian plain. This area was a delta ecosystem of 1 900 ha that suffered dramatic changes because of artificial drainage measures introduced in the 20th century. The lake has become eutrophic and mostly silted because of alluvial deposits from the Neajlov River. The Comana wetland is a very important site for breeding and passing waterfowl. More than 200 species have been recorded in the lake and surrounding forests. This wetland area is classified as an Important Bird Area and Ramsar site, and is partly protected under national law. It hosts priority species such as the pygmy cormorant (Phalacrocorax pygmaeus), the ferruginous duck (Aythya nyroca), the corncrake (Crex crex), the bittern (Botaurus stellaris) and the lesser spotted eagle (Aquila pomarina). The main threats to the conservation of the natural ecosystems in the area are the decreasing water levels, forest cutting and introduction of non-indigenous species. Objectives The project aimed to restore the biggest wetland area in southern Romania. The main restoration actions envisaged were the building of small dams to retain water and the opening of flood channels. These would be accompanied by field studies to evaluate their effects on the biotope. Since Comana forest is an important habitat for birds, it was also intended to prepare and implement a sustainable forest management plan to preserve the birds' habitat. Wardening and monitoring would be improved, visitors' access would be controlled and fishing and hunting regulations would be set up to combat existing threats in the area. A long-term conservation management plan for the area would be prepared, including consultation with stakeholders and the involvement of the local responsible bodies. The project actions would be supported by a public awareness campaign that would include the publication of brochures and erection of information panels, as well as three workshops. Results The project was only partially successful. Notably, the main on-site action - the building of a dam to restore the wetland area - was not carried out because planning permission could not be obtained from the competent authority. In its final report, the beneficiary gave no indication of future plans regarding this action. As regards the opening of channels, the measures undertaken barely represent 20% of the expected outcome for this action according to the beneficiary’s assessment included in the final report. Despite these failings, the project did achieve some of its targets. The hydrological parameters and flooding pattern in the basin were evaluated during 2002 and 2003. The study area covered 1 200 ha and the different flooding scenarios, including risk assessment to safeguard human settlements, were properly modelled using GIS and GPS technology. The nesting sites located in the forest areas around the wetlands were also taken into account. Maps that present the GPS measurement points and the wetland configuration at different water levels were drawn up. Measures to increase the wetland area were identified. These included: building a dam 2 m above ground level, opening radial canals in the upper area, dredging existing canals and opening new ones to enhance water flows and decrease the organic input and maintenance tasks. In addition, the construction of flood control rapids and the control of visitor access were also recommended. A forest biodiversity survey identified four Annex I bird species (Lanius collurio, Picus canus, Dendrocopos medius and Ficedula albicolis) breeding in the project area. Based on this information, the beneficiary issued a series of management recommendations that have been included in forest management plans and taken into account by a long-term conservation management plan for Comana wetland. The draft plan, one of the outputs of the LIFE project, includes comprehensive information about the natural assets of the area and defines it in zones, including: two scientific reserves, a special protection area for birds, a buffer area and zone for sustainable development. The relevant socio-economic features have also been taken into account when defining the appropriate management measures and the land uses that should be allowed and restricted. According to the draft, the Comana wetland should be declared a Natural Park (category IV IUCN). The management plan and proposal for the declaration of a new protected area has been submitted to the Romanian Ministry of Environment and Waters. Nine information panels were installed in the project area in March and April 2003. The panels provide information about the project area, objectives and planned measures as well as about the main natural assets of the site (species and habitats). Twelve metal barriers have been installed on roads leading to the two existing scientific reserves and Comana Lake. These have successfully restricted access and together with wardening activity, have reduced incidences of grazing, hunting and reed collection.