Location: Dresden, Saxony, Germany

Objective: integration of the ecological networks concept in a regional plan

Problems: Identifying priority areas of the ecological network; accomplishing an agreed statutory plan

Solutions:  First, sound ecological analysis; second, preparation of a detailed internal working document; third, consultation with stakeholders according to the legal provision for adopting a statutory spatial plan (regional plan)

Results: A statutory, legally binding spatial plan (regional plan) that includes far-reaching, extensive provisions for a regional ecological network

Critical factors of success: very detailed and well documented analysis of the landscape ecology resulted in legally binding stipulations for protection

Key learning points: a good scientific underpinning of a proposed ecological network design helps in its implementation

Actors: staff of the regional planning bureau, a public agency

Communication: Publication of the adopted plan

Financing: State budget (setting up such plans is the main task of this agency)