The Tagliamento is considered the "last important natural Alpine river in Europe" (Muller, 1995) and can, therefore, serve as model river ecosystem for the Alpine Region. Its headwaters are situated in the carbonatic Eastern Alps, from which it flows towards the Adriatic Sea. The river retains an essentially pristine character featuring a complex channel morphology shaped by a highly dynamic hydrologic regime. The upper watershed (North-West part of Friuli Venezia Giulia Region) extends from the source at 1.195 m a.s.l. (Mauria Pass) to the confluence with the Fella tributary.

The area suffers from both demographic and economic decline: few manufacturing enterprises, mostly located at the downstream end of the area, constantly declining traditional-type agriculture despite its still fundamental importance, diminishing services which tend to be relocated elsewhere in the plain. The natural environment represents the area's greatest asset, not yet exploited by tourism, with the partial exception of two municipalities which have been included into the Regional Natural Park of the Dolomites.  The potential for sustainable development in this sector thus remains high: the upper Tagliamento still bears remarkable scenic values although anthropogenic perturbation exists (hydroelectricity generation, excavation and exploitation of gravel and water abstraction).

The project will support the creation of a Biosphere Reserve in the North-West area of the Region. The aim is to form a cooperative and modern image of the Tagliamento Region, where integration of water management into regional development strategies is commonly accepted and pursued.  The watershed partnership composed by the key stakeholders will provide decision - makers with suitable advice with the view of achieving a sustainable water use.  

Partner 1 - Region of Friuli Venezia Giulia
is responsible for Work Package 1: Management and Coordination