Background The European common spadefoot toad (Pelobates fuscus) is listed in Annex IV of the EU Habitats Directive (i.e., in need of strict protection) and is also listed in the IUCN Red List of ‘threatened species’ for Germany. In North Rhine-Westphalia, which represents the extreme western limit of its range, it is already close to extinction. Moreover, according to the Article 17 Habitat Directive Report (2007), in the Atlantic bio-geographical region in Germany, it is assessed as having a ‘poor’ conservation status. In the past, some 12 occurrences of the spadefoot toad have been identified in the county of Warendorf. All these occurrences were in the "Ostmünsterland" area, including around the historical floodplain of the River Ems. However, a recent study found evidence of only two of the previous 12 occurrences. Therefore, urgent action is required in order to avoid the species’ complete extinction. The reason for the decline of the species is not entirely known but is thought to be driven by changes in, and the intensification of land-use. Objectives The project’s overall aim is to preserve and improve the remaining spadefoot toad population in Münsterland, in North Rhine-Westphalia. Specific objectives include: To carry out measures to optimise the spawning waters and terrestrial habitats of the spadefood toad; To improve the currently known habitats of the targeted species; To secure the species’ remaining genetic diversity by conservation breeding; To carry out resettlement – to ensure the permanent and independent viability of the species; To carry out analysis of the current genetic pool, in order to clarify issues of population management; To monitor the above-mentioned actions. Expected results: 1. A strengthening of the remaining population of the spadefoot toad in Münsterland. Other Habitats Directive-listed species, such as crested newt (Triturus cristatus) (Annex II and IV), tree frog (Hyla arborea) and pool frog (Rana lessonae) (both Annex IV), edible frog (R. kl. esculenta), marsh frog (R. ridibunda) and common frog (R. temporaria) (all Annex V), will also benefit from the project actions. 2. The creation of stepping stones for the habitat network of spadefoot toads through the establishment of fish-free, small water bodies, and the optimisation of their environments. 3. An increase in the number of individuals in the remaining population a sa result of conservation breeding, which will avert the extinction of the spadefoot toad in Münsterland. 4. An increase in regional and national awareness of the importance of the protection of spadefoot toad. 5. An increase in the number of farmers participating in the funding contract of the Nature Preservation Agreement.