Background Alkaline fens in southern Poland are of great ecological importance, and are listed in Annex I of the Habitats Directive. They contain many rare, extremely sensitive and endangered plant species, in particularly, those listed in Annex II of the Habitats Directive. However, the alkaline fens have been subject to a continuous process of degradation over the past few decades, due to drainage, eutrophication and intensive agricultural practices, among other factors. Therefore, there is an urgent need for action to protect the priority alkaline fens habitat and the species it contains. Objectives The AlkFens_S_PLife project aims to maintain or improve the conservation status of the majority of alkaline fens in the south of Poland. It will contribute to the conservation of the full geographical and regional diversity of the habitat, especially small fens and fen-springs in the Carpathians and Lublin region. It will help conserve key localities of fen orchid (Liparis loeselii) and other rare plant species of alkaline fens. The strategic objective of the project is to stop habitat degradation processes, and to improve and to maintain the favourable conservation status of alkaline fens in southern Poland as a habitat for many unique plant species, particularly those listed in Annex II of the Habitats Directive. The specific objectives of the project are to: Prevent excessive drainage and to raise the water table in areas of alkaline fens; Inhibit mineralisation and eutrophication of the surface peat layer; Halt the loss of biodiversity in alkaline fens due to the expansion of species from habitats with lower humidity, such as grasses, trees and shrubs; Propagate alkaline fens protection methods within management plans based on scientific knowledge, with particular emphasis on hydroecologic aspects; Promote the protection of alkaline fens as the refuge of rare and endangered species, which can also serve as regional and local attractions; Create a group of people interested in the long-term protection of alkaline fens; and Encourage farmers and other stakeholders to apply extensive mowing in the future. Expected results: Building of more than 83 dams and the rebuilding of two existing dams; Removal of trees and shrubs on an area of approximeatly 51 ha; Mowing of 152 ha of mires and their restoration for extensive use; Purchase of around 3.17 ha of the most valuable alkaline fens plots; Creation of documentation and management plans for the creation and expansion of nature reserves, and hydroecological schemes; Preparation of full management plans for Natura 2000 network sites where alkaline fens occur; and Training of about 15 people to implement conservation measures on alkaline fens.