Background North-east Poland’s Biebrza Valley was drained over 100 years ago and this significantly changed habitat conditions in local peatlands as the ground water table lowered. Habitat changes were particularly acute in the Valley’s Middle Basin, where two Natura 2000 sites have been designated; the Ostoja Biebrzańska SPA and Dolina Biebrzy SAC. These sites contain six habitats listed in the Habitats Directive and also provide breeding territories for a number of rare and endangered bird species, including more than 20 species listed in the Appendix 1 of Birds Directive. Farming communities are expected to become key stakeholders in helping to manage the conservation status of habitats and species at the Ostoja Biebrzańska SPA and Dolina Biebrzy SAC. Objectives The main objective of this LIFE Nature project is to improve of the conservation status of habitats and species at the Ostoja Biebrzańska SPA and Dolina Biebrzy SAC. Works extending over 9000 ha will target hydrogenic habitats and restore appropriate water flow conditions in the vicinity of key areas, such as around the Rudzki canal, the Ełk river, the Jegrznia river, and the Woźnawiejski canal. The project actions are expected to improve habitat conditions for birds in non-forested ecosystems. A two phase approach is being implemented. Progress from the first phase will be evaluated in order to inform the direction and type of activities implemented during the second phase. This is considered important to facilitate suitable forms of agricultural land use in the target area. Key expected results: Habitat conditions for wetland bird species will be significantly improved on an area of 110 ha; A Nature Protection Management Plan will be elaborated for an area of 9000 ha; Technical documents covering 47.9 km of natural hydrographical network will be prepared; Up to 9 km of rivers and canals will be improved; Water flow regimes in the Woźnawiejski Canal and Jegrznia River will be increased by three times that of the previous low water level.