Background The degradation of the different forest and pasture habitats in the Tolfa area is threatening several bird species, because of the reduced area suitable for mating, nesting and feeding. Such degradation has been caused mainly by the abandonment of the once-cultivated woods and pastures, and by uncontrolled human activity in natural areas, including humid zones. Objectives The main objective of the project is to ensure the long-term conservation of the unique habitats and related (priority and of community importance) species included in one of the biggest SPAs in Italy, and in two pSCIs that are within the project area. The second objective is the implementation of actions that will enable human activities and nature conservation to take place at the same time. Thirdly, the project will increase the value of the area by highlighting to residents and visitors that is it a Natura 2000 site. This will be done through collaboration between four municipalities and three 'università agrarie', which manage the public access to the woods and pastures.