Funding for Forestry Measures

This funding program is aimed at natural and legal persons under private and public law who own agricultural or forestry land in Schleswig-Holstein, as well as recognized forestry associations. The goal is to secure the sustainable utility, protection, and recreational functions of the forest and to increase its ecological and economic performance.

The funding covers a wide range of measures for nature-oriented forest management, improvement of forestry infrastructure, strengthening of forestry associations, as well as initial afforestation and management of extreme weather consequences. This includes preparatory work, forest conversion, young stand maintenance, soil protection liming, road construction, and the establishment of wood preservation facilities.

Funding is provided as a non-repayable grant by means of co-financing. The funding amount varies depending on the measure and is generally between 30% and 100% of the eligible expenses. For forestry associations, there are annual maximum limits and a De Minimis threshold over three years.

The application and implementation of the funded measures are subject to specific legal, forestry, and administrative conditions. These include requirements for the type of plantings, wildlife protection, adherence to commitment periods, and consideration of aid rules such as the De Minimis Regulation.

The application procedure is to be handled centrally through the Schleswig-Holstein Chamber of Agriculture. Applications must be submitted on specified forms and include specific planning documents. Approval is granted after verification of the requirements and forestry expediency within the framework of available budget funds.

The funding program is based on the guidelines for the promotion of forestry measures as a joint task "Improvement of agricultural structure and coastal protection" in Schleswig-Holstein. It is shaped and financed by EU aid regulations and regulations of the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD).