Funding for Protection, Development, Maintenance, and Restoration Measures in Nature Reserves and Natura 2000 Areas and on Areas of the Schleswig-Holstein Bog Protection Program

The funding program is primarily aimed at districts and independent cities in Schleswig-Holstein. In exceptional cases, foundations as well as non-profit associations and organizations may also receive grants. The measures must be carried out in specific nature reserves and Natura 2000 areas, as well as on areas of the Bog Protection Program in Schleswig-Holstein, and serve the protection and development of endangered habitats and species.

Various measures in the field of nature conservation are funded, particularly for the development and restoration of habitats. This includes protection, development, maintenance, and restoration measures in specific areas, as well as projects for visitor management and information. Land acquisition and certain official signage are excluded from funding.

Funding is provided as a non-repayable grant within the framework of project funding, which can be designed as full or partial financing. The exact amount of the grant depends on the type and scope of the planned measure. The approval period extends over the respective fiscal year until March 31 of the following year.

For the approval of grants, certain conditions must be met, such as the confirmation of professional necessity by the nature conservation authorities and the regulation of future sponsorship for facilities. It is important to comply with procurement regulations. There is no legal entitlement to funding, as the decision lies at the discretion of the Ministry.

The application process requires the use of specific forms, a detailed presentation of the measures and their costs, and timely submission by November 1st for the following year. The approving authority decides on the project list. The disbursement of the grant occurs in two installments.

The funding program is based on a specific guideline of the State of Schleswig-Holstein, which is in conjunction with the State Nature Conservation Act and the Federal Nature Conservation Act. These regulations define the objectives, the subject of funding, and the conditions for the grant.