Casares Launches Riverbed Ecological Restoration Plan Casares Town Hall commits substantial environmental funds to restore the natural biodiversity and riverbanks of the Manilva river corridor. The historic whitewashed municipality of Casares has launched an ecological restoration programme along the vulnerable banks of the Río Manilva, protecting local biodiversity while reinforcing natural flood defences. Restoring Ancient Riverbanks Specialist conservation teams have moved into the lower valley reaches dividing the municipal boundaries of Casares and its neighbouring coastal territory. The intervention focuses on clearing aggressive invasive cane reeds (*Arundo donax*), which choke local waterways, consume disproportionate quantities of groundwater, and create dangerous blockages during seasonal flash floods. Over the coming weeks, forestry workers using specialised low-impact machinery will clear over four linear kilometres of degraded river channel. In place of the non-native reeds, environmental technicians will replant hundreds of native Mediterranean riparian species, including white poplars, oleanders, tamarisks, and willows. These native species establish deep, robust root systems that physically stabilise riverbanks against erosion while creating safe nesting habitats for endangered kingfishers, European pond turtles, and regional birds of prey. Protection for Walking Trails and Roman Baths The Río Manilva basin is internationally celebrated for the historic Baños de la Hedionda, ancient sulphur thermal baths with roots stretching back to Roman antiquity. The thermal pool complex and its surrounding walking trails draw thousands of hikers and nature lovers through the autumn walking season. Town Hall planners highlighted that restoring the natural fluvial dynamics of the river will protect historical footbridges and public walking paths that have suffered minor subsidence during torrential storms in previous winters. The creation of natural pebble bypasses and low-gradient gravel berms will slow the velocity of rushing headwaters flowing down from the rugged limestone heights of the Sierra Bermeja before they reach the Mediterranean coastline. Balanced Sustainable Development The environmental project reflects Casares's long-term municipal strategy to balance rural heritage with ecological responsibility. As coastal development expands, protecting pristine green wedges and biological river corridors guarantees that residents and visitors preserve unhindered access to unspoilt Andalusian nature. Local authorities have scheduled educational nature walks led by environmental biologists throughout the coming weeks, inviting resident families and international expat groups to observe the native planting techniques firsthand. With active works now rolling through the valley, Casares sets a benchmark for environmental management on the western Costa del Sol.