Background The “Bosbeek” and “Itterbeek” lowland brook systems in the Flemish Campine region are characterised by high geomorphological and natural diversity. The exceptional abiotic conditions in the two valleys mean that they are home to a wide variety of Annex I habitats, as well as several rare and threatened species, including the great-crested newt (Triturus cristatus), European tree frog (Hyla arborea) and moor frog (Rana arvalis). More than 40 species of dragonflies have also been recorded in the project areas. The two valleys also used to contain one of the last breeding populations in Flanders of the red-backed shrike (Lanius collurio). Historically, the area also held populations of natterjack toad (Bufo calamita) and smooth snake (Coronella austriaca). Unfortunately several habitats are under severe pressure from changes in land use including afforestation and intensive farming and recreation, which have led to habitat fragmentation and the consequent isolation of target species’ populations and pressure from invasive alien species. Objectives Natuurpunt's LIFE Nature project is aiming to combats threats to its Birds Directive- and Habitats Directive-listed species, while promoting nature-oriented recreation in the project areas. Specific aims include: Development and realisation of a wide range of measures to promote the tourist and socio-economic potential of the area, including a film, leaflets, articles in the press, tourist trails and signs and annual public events; Organisation of several activities (such as workshops) to exchange knowledge and experience with local people, other LIFE projects and relevant authorities; and Informing local people about the threat of alien species invading the pSCI via garden litter. Expected results: 42 ha of land will be acquired in the project area for large-scale habitat restoration of a complex of ground- and seepage-water dependent Annex I habitats: especially 7 ha of quacking bogs and transition mires (7140), 18 ha of alluvial forests - Saliceto-Franguletum and Carici elongatae-Alnetum (91E0+) - and hydrophilous tall herb fringe communities (6430). Locally, wet types of Nardetalia (6230+), wet heathland vegetations (4010) and lowland hay meadows (6510) also will develop. The project is of particular importance for the quacking bogs and transition mires (7140). This habitat will significantly increase from 2 ha to at least 9 ha; Large-scale restoration of 7 ha Annex I habitats typical for a semi-dry, poor sandy soil typical for the region and as stepping stone between the ‘Hoge Kempen’ (Flanders) and the ‘Peel’ area (Netherlands): ‘Corynephorus and Agrostis dune grasslands’ (2330), ‘old oak forests’ (9190) and ‘dry heathlands’ (4030); Restoration of 3 ha of the valuable Annex I habitat ‘Nanocypertalia fen vegetations’ (3130); Restoration and increase of population of European brook lamprey (Luscinia svecica) and common kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) and perhaps the return of red-backed shrike (Lanius collurio), European nightjar (Caprimulgus europaeus) and white admiral (Lullula arborea); Development of two integrated management plans, based on a detailed vegetation map and field research; An eco-hydrological study and nutrient analysis of removed soil will be carried out; The first results of the restoration activities will be monitored; Better visitor facilities and more visitors, more information about the area and better socio-economic support for Natura 2000 and the LIFE project.