Pirkanmaa - Restoration and maintenance of valuable aquatic bird habitats of Pirkanmaa, Finland

The project started by obtaining up-to-date information on the fauna and the quality of water of four SPAs in the region of Pirkanmaa, Finland in order to ensure the correct orientation of actions. Management plans were prepared for each area in cooperation with land owners, organizations, authorities and restoration plans were prepared for three target areas (159 hectares). The project then has restored the mosaic of open water and flora by dredging shallows, cutting bushes and building breeding islets in the overgrown areas. In addition, land has been purchased and compensation has been paid for hunting rights. The support of the local hunters has also been enlisted to help control populations of small predators in all target areas. Eventual conflicts of interest between various groups of users were reduced by disseminating information and establishing permanent cooperation between land owners, authorities etc. Public media report regularly on the progress of the project and meetings have been organized to inform the public for the benefits of Natura 2000.