Planning of the management and use of protected areas is aimed at guaranteeing the preservation of their natural values, by integrating nature conservation with recreational use and other land use such as forestry. Landowners, inhabitants and other users of the area such as hikers, hunting parties and various organisations are extensively involved in the planning process.

Management plans include information on

• the current state of the area and its former and current use
• the objectives of management and use and the necessary, related measures
• the resources required in order to implement the plan
• the impacts of the planned measures on the status of protected species and habitats

During the project, management and use plans were prepared for two Natura 2000 sites. Metsähallitus, Parks & Wildlife Finland steered preparations for the Maakylä–Räyskälä site located in the municipalities of Loppi and Tammela. The Northern Savo Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment was in charge of the plan for the Hällämönharju–Valkeiskangas site located in the municipalities of Vieremä and Pyhäntä.