Background The Pyrenean desman (Galemys pyrenaicus) is a small semi-aquatic mammal that was discovered in 1811. Its distribution worldwide is restricted to the north-western Iberian Peninsula and the Pyrenean mountain range, a habitat that is seriously threatened by fragmentation. Since 2010, the DREAL Midi-Pyrénées in collaboration with the CEN MP has been carrying out an action plan for the protection of the Desman. This five-year plan includes 25 actions to stop the French desman population decreasing and to develop operational conservation methods. The Pyrenean desman is listed in Annexes II and IV of the Habitats Directive. Objectives This project will improve the desman’s long-term conservation status in 11 Natura 2000 sites in three French regions. This will be achieved using innovative conservation techniques consisting of a range of activities: hydro-electricity production, waterworks developments, riverbank management and water sports. The aim is to ensure that all Pyrenean aquatic habitat development and maintenance actions take the desman. into consideration The management methods, which will be applied to the entire French Pyrenees, will enhance the habitat’s hosting capacity (living conditions for the desman) and facilitate the ecological continuity of the area’s rivers. Expected results: Improved conservation status of 20% of the French desman population; Three study protocols tested (capture, footprint rafts and radio-tracking); Analysis of the evolution of six populations subjected to various stresses; Reproduction sites of the Desman determined; An evaluation of the ecological impact of water sports; The purchase of 5 ha of land; Neutralisation of more than 400 black spots (i.e. likely to lead to desman mortality) along 120 km of river and 40 km of canals; Improvements to the hosting conditions of seven sectors (a minimum of 150 m); The creation and maintenance of seven experimental refuge areas; Regulation of water release on four dams; and Raised awareness of 100 000 fishermen, 60 fish farmers, 20 000 canyoning enthuasists, hydro-electricity groups and river unions.