Integrated planning tool to ensure viability of grasslands

The project aimed to prevent loss of High Nature Value grasslands and increase effectiveness of semi-natural grassland management by developing the Integrating Planning Tool (Tool). The tool based on ecosystem services approach helps to strengthen linkages between social, economic, environmental, agricultural fields and policies in grassland management. Results of the tool helps planning and decision taking in sustainable grassland management.

The project also demonstrated opportunities for multifunctional use of grasslands’ ecosystem services as basis for sustainable development of rural areas.

Project actions:

• Grassland ecosystem service assessment at the selected case study areas;
• Development of the Tool by addressing socio-economic matter in nature conservation policies;
• Analysis of the national policies and regulatory framework in the Baltic States;
• Development of pilot scenarios for long-term grassland management;
• Capacity building on applying the Tool for the relevant target groups and operating the Tool at national, regional, municipal, protected areas and farm level.

Project is implemented in 9 demo areas in 3 Baltic states.