Background The project area encompasses two main Natura 2000 (N2000) network sites, the “Styrian Dachstein plateau" (7 455 ha) and "Totes Gebirge" (16 178 ha). Two smaller N2000 network sites and several habitat connectivity corridors are also included within the project area. The main habitat type targeted by the project is forest. During recent centuries, monocultural spruce forests have been developed that are characterised by low diversity and structure and increasing sensitivity to pests and heavy wetter conditions. The alluvial and riparian forests have become degraded through regulation of rivers and drainage of wetlands. Open areas, which formerly were used as alpine pastures, are often abandoned and the valuable grassland habitats are progressively overgrown by spruces. Objectives The focus of the project is to improve the structural diversity in the forests, as well as the function of ecological corridors between the mountainous areas. The main objectives are: To develop forest areas characterised by an ecologic diversity and high share of dead wood within the “Dachstein plateau” and “Totes Gebirge” N2000 sites; To create a “grouse habitat network” for Tetraonidae (grouse/ capercaillie) through the development of “stepping stones” between the two Natura 2000 sites on some 300 ha; To create the “Mitterndorfer habitat network”, a system consisting of peatlands and wetlands. After the restoration of target habitats, some 150 ha will be nominated for inclusion in the Natura 2000 network; To integrate regional partners and non-governmental organisations into the project and carry out public relations activities focusing on LIFE and the N2000 network. Expected results: Transformation of 2 600 ha of spruce-dominated montane forests to ensure ≥ 10m3 of dead wood per ha, thereby providing suitable habitat for a number of saproxylic species; Development of 300 ha of forest according to the needs of the wood grouse (Tetrao urogallus - goal ≥ 150 breeding pairs) and of 50 ha of sub-alpine shrub vegetation for the black grouse (Tetrao tetrix - goal ≥ 290 breeding pairs); adoption of a 300 ha core “grouse habitat network” area into a Natura 2000 network site; Restoration of 1 km of drainage ditches and 60 ha of peatlands; Creation of small habitats for the yellow-bellied toad (Bombina variegate); Restoration of some 15 km of the river Salza; Restoration of 4km of valley creeks and removal of barriers to improve habitats for the stone crayfish (*Austropotamobius torrentium), bullhead (Cottus gobio) and other freshwater fish species; Creation of 15 ponds > 40 m2 for the Italian crested newt (Triturus carnifex); Implementation of a gene pool programme for the stone crayfish; Re-naturalisation of the river mouth area of the Stimitz river in lake Grundlsee; for the Caspian shemaya (Chalcalburnus chalcoides); and Connection of the regional nature trail network and creation of three theme trails of (2.5 km long). Five information points will be creating along the trails. This will be supported by a full range of other dissemination activities (exhibitions in tourism centres; videos, workshops, leaflets, hiking maps etc).