PROJECT DESCRIPTION
BACKGROUND
A national habitat inventory carried out in 2013 revealed that the majority of the existing calcareous grassland sites in Luxembourg are in an average condition. According to this inventory, many of the previously known sites could no longer be considered as grassland, as they had been encroached by scrubs and succumbed to natural succession.
Among the most threatened communities are priority-rated, orchid-rich assemblages within calcareous grasslands. This includes endangered species such as those belonging to the genera Ophrys and Orchis and the field cow-wheat (Melampyrum arvense, classified as a priority species in Luxembourg) that are directly dependant on the condition of calcareous grasslands.
Another focal point is the calcareous grasslands (Gentiano-Koelerietum) that developed through extensive grazing. These are characterised by the presence of gentians (Gentiana germanica and G. ciliata) and junipers.
The importance of calcareous grasslands to conserving biodiversity is further emphasised by the numerous habitat types with which they are closely linked. The project area includes eight Natura 2000 sites in the southeast of Luxembourg.
OBJECTIVES
The LIFE Orchis project’s main objective centred on securing and restoring all calcareous grasslands that have been known to exist in southeast of Luxembourg. This goal would be achieved by:
- Improving the conservation status of grassland habitats through removal of moss and dead biomass;
- Expanding the surface area of target habitats by clearing of scrubs and removing non-native forestation;
- Cross-linking habitat patches through extensification of adjacent farmland; and
- Providing long-term protection through land purchases and management.
Special emphasis would be given to restoring the priority habitat ‘orchid-rich calcareous grasslands’ in order to help achieve national and European conservation objectives.
RESULTS
Within eight Natura 2000 sites, the LIFE Orchis project managed to improve the conservation status of calcareous grassland habitats on more than 75 ha (70 ha was originally planned) and to create almost 46 ha of potential semi-dry grassland habitats (45 ha planned) in the south-east of Luxembourg.
Previously abandoned semi-dry grasslands were restored as foreseen and follow-up management systems were established on project sites. The conclusion of biodiversity contracts with farmers ensures sustainable site management in the long term on 86 ha of land.
The propagation of common juniper (Juniperus communis) was challenging, however the project managed to grow and plant 4 000 of these plants.
Further information on the project can be found in the project's layman report and After-LIFE Conservation Plan (see "Read more" section).
