Background The project will target priority habitats listed in Annex I of the Habitats Directive, namely, Pannonic salt steppes and salt marshes. The salinity of the target area is increasing due to a drainage system. As water away is removed from the surface, water from deeper layers also evaporates. These habitat types are partly of natural origin and partly created by cattle grazing. The area is an important stepping stone between Hortobay and the Koros-Maros region and is home to some rare and protected species. Invasive species, however, are also present and must be eliminated. The area is locally protected and has been identified as an SAC. Unfortunately, however, its protection has been undermined due to budgetary constraints at two NGOs (HOTEK and NIMFEA), which lack the resources for extensive nature conservation programmes. Activities focused on grazing, mowing, repatriation of the European ground squirrel (Spermophilus citellus), installation of nest boxes etc. Objectives The main aim of the project is the restoration and protection of the saline Pannonian steppe of Pasztoi-legelo Natura 2000 site, focusing on the following plant species: yellow-star thistle (Centaurea solstitialis), thistle (Cirsium brachycephalum), and grass vetching (Lathyrus nissolia), as well as the large copper butterfly (Lycaena dispar). The project also aims to establish a traditional and sustainable extensive grassland management system, a water management system, and to increase public awareness of the role of traditional landscape management in the conservation of biodiversity. Expected results: A management plan for the Pasztoi-legelo Natura 2000 site; The purchase of at least 35 ha of land, and at least 30 less landowners; The establishment of a board of landowners (co-operative management of a major part of the land); The renovation of the barn house and the stable for livestock; The purchase of 100 sheep, 15 Hungarian cattle, ten Hungarian grey cattle, five buffalo and ten horses; The covering of a 500 m ditch in order to ease access for livestock to the grasslands; Insulation of 42 electric pylons; Attraction of visitors through the construction of better infrastructure, and a range of information and dissemination activities.