Background Turnhouts Vennengebied is situated in the northern part of the Campine region. The project area (measuring 285 hectares) was once renowned for its vast complex of species rich fens and heaths. The clay surface produces oligo-mesotrophic fen complexes, in which well-developed Annex I habitats ponds with vegetation of the Littorelletalia uniflorae and Nanocyperetalia are found. The fen is surrounded by Atlantic wet heathlands, alternating with large peat depressions with vegetation of the Rhynchosporion, making the site of European importance. Though species-rich Nardus grasslands remain, they have severely declined in recent years. Extensive inland sand dunes with Corynephorus and Agrostis dune grasslands and dry sand heathlands are unique in Europe. Dry heathlands are found throughout the project area. Several rare bird species are found include the bluethroat (Luscinia svecica), kingfisher (Alcedo atthis), honey buzzard (Pernis apivorus) and black woodpecker (Dryocopus martius).The presence of the habitats and species has decreased severely in the pSCI. The most important threats are the fragmentation of habitats and populations, intensive farming and large-scale afforestation. Objectives This LIFE project is the result of the cooperation between the NGO, Natuurpunt Beheer, and two public bodies, Agentschap natuur en bos and Vlaamse Landmaatschappij. The objective of this partnership is the restoration of an important Flemish Natura 2000 sites, called Turnhouts Vennengebied. Measures include: - Large-scale redevelopment of the species rich Nardus grasslands. - Optimal restoration of international important fen habitats. - Restoration of a large heath and land dunes complex, existing of special Annex I habitats, such as wet heathlands, peat depressions, dry inland dune grasslands and heatlands. - Improvement and enlargement of the habitats for diverse species especially water plantain (Luronium natans), leucorrhine à gros thorax (Leucorrhinia pectoralis), black tern (Chlidonias niger), ruff (Philomachus pugnax), woodlark (Lullula arborea) and nightjar (Caprimulgus europaeus). Besides these conservation objectives, the project organisers want to increase the socio-economic potential of this Natura 2000 area, through recreation, a volunteers force and informing local people and visitors about the project.