Habitat restoration, grassland birds conservation status improvement and promotion of nature based solutions through resilient mosaic Mediterranean landscape

ongoing

The Mosaic of LIFE aims to implement the restoration activities and enhance the conservation status of 4 Natura 2000 target bird species and 4 grassland habitat types across 8 Natura 2000 sites in Central Dalmatia, Croatia. The primary challenge addressed by the project is the widespread bush-encroachment on grasslands due to the abandonment of traditional agricultural practices, leading to the degradation of habitats. Through the implementation of large-scale restoration activities, including the mechanical removal of woody vegetation, prescribed burning, and the promotion of traditional grazing practices, the project seeks to perform restoration activities on at least 560 ha of grasslands and improve the management of an additional 1020 ha. These efforts are expected to increase the target habitats conservation status and population of the target bird species and contribute to the resilience of the landscape against climate change. A key aspect of the project is the development of Recommendations for preserving landscape mosaicism, ensuring that future spatial planning and land management take into account the needs of the target species and habitats. These recommendations will be integrated into Natura 2000 management plans, ensuring long-term sustainability. The project aims to engage a wide range of stakeholders, including local farmers, forestry managers, firefighters, and public institutions, fostering collaboration and ensuring the continuity of restoration activities beyond the project’s lifespan. Additionally, the project will promote awareness of the importance of mosaic landscapes, traditional agricultural practices, and EU biodiversity policies among local communities and the general public. By combining top-down policy advocacy with bottom-up community engagement, the Mosaic of LIFE project aims to create a resilient, biodiverse landscape that supports both nature and local livelihoods, serving as a model for similar initiatives in the Mediterranean region.