PROJECT DESCRIPTION
BACKGROUND
The western ‘Gutland’ is a region that is crucial for species-rich grasslands in Luxembourg and it still hosts many well-developed grasslands. However, these grasslands are threatened by the intensification of agricultural management and by strong urbanisation pressures. Such factors can cause habitat loss and increased uncertainty regarding the future condition of remaining grasslands. By means of contractual conservation management agreements (‘Biodiversity contracts’) many areas have been temporarily saved from intensification. Nevertheless, habitat loss continues and long-term solutions are needed that involve the purchase of grasslands, followed by subsequent restoration and improvement of their conservation status.
OBJECTIVES
This project’s main objective focuses on protecting endangered grassland habitats as well as a number of animal species that depend on these habitats within 15 Natura 2000 sites in the western part of the ‘Gutland’ of Luxembourg.
These goals will be achieved by strengthening the Natura 2000 network via purchase of grasslands and subsequent restoration and improvement of their conservation status.
Expected results: Outcomes anticipated from the project include the following results: