Conservation and management of species-rich grasslands by local authorities

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:

The purchase and restoration of at least 46.5 ha of grasslands hydrophilous tall herb fringe communities, transition mires and habitats that are necessary for a number of endangered species of the Habitats and Birds directives;

The local population of the Geoffrey’s bat (Myotis emarginatus) is stabilised (and possibly enlarged), by improving the hunting grounds and migration structures;

The conservation status of the crested newt (Triturus cristatus), which is actually found on about 70 sites in the region, is improved via proven conservation measures;

The survival chances of the yellow-bellied toad (Bombina variegata), which is critically endangered in Luxembourg and is currently only found in two areas, are improved. The negative trend is reversed through creation of dynamic habitats; and

Restoring dry grasslands for the bird species Anthus trivialis, Lullula arborea and Phoenicurus phoenicurus.