Background Muscari gussonei (Parl.) Nyman (or Leopoldia gussonei Parl.) is a plant species endemic to Sicily, particularly the Camarino-Pachinense area. The population, which is confined to dune habitats, is restricted at the regional level (mainly Mocconi di Gela, Cava Randello and the Natura 2000 network site “Vallata del fiume Ippari”). It is severely endangered and is listed as a priority for conservation in the Habitats Directive The main threats are: extremely high agricultural pressure; the absence of control by local authorities over illegal agricultural activities (especially in greenhouses); the presence of exotic, invasive plant species (e.g. Acacia saligna and Eucalyptus spp.); coastal erosion; uncontrolled grazing; excessive tourist pressure; and a lack of understanding and awareness among the local population of biodiversity issues and the need for preserving the territory. Objectives The general objective of this project is to re-establish and protect the sand dune habitats (2110, 2120, 2210, 2230, 2250*) that are most suitable for the conservation and spread of the priority species Muscari gussonei. The specific objectives are: To increase Muscari gussonei (Cod. 1850) populations and generally improve the state of conservation of its habitats (2230, 5330, 2250); To improve connectivity within the ecological network in the project area; To improve dune and back-dune management; To recover the morphology of the dune system; To increase bird populations and nesting; To establish the ecological/environmental conditions for the deposition of loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) eggs; and To decrease human pressure on dune habitats and increase low-impact agricultural management systems. Expected results The main quantifiable expected results include: Monitoring of the Sicilian Muscari gussonei populations and their habitats; Reclamation of degraded dune habitats to extend the surface area of Muscari Gussonei; Muscari gussonei germplasm collection; Establishment of an ex-situ nursery to grow Muscari gussonei; Increasing the awareness of the local population about sand dune habitats and associated species conservation. This will include an increase in specific educational activities.