Species protection often conflicts with economic interests. Applying a proactive approach to nature conservation, in which conservation measures are integrated into economic activities, can lead to good results.
In the Netherlands, the presence of the strictly protected Natterjack toad often leads to conflicts. For one particular region, it is even clear that application of conservation-minded legislation is counterproductive. Therefore, a species management plan (SMP) was specifically created for this region by means of a joint planning process that included all stakeholders. The SMP is a framework for guaranteeing the long-term viability of the population of the Natterjack toad in the region while preventing unnecessary legal procedures. As such, it has both economic and ecological advantages.