Funding for Lake Development Projects (RL Seenentwicklung – SEE)
The State of Lower Saxony supports projects for the restoration and rehabilitation of lakes and standing waters in accordance with the EC Water Framework Directive. The program is co-financed by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) and offers grants for measures to improve water quality and ecological status. It is aimed at local authorities and legal entities with water management or environmentally relevant tasks.
Who is funded: Target groups and regional focus
This funding program is aimed at local authorities, public law bodies, and legal entities that perform tasks in water management or environmental protection. The funded projects must be implemented in Lower Saxony and aim to improve the water quality of lakes and standing waters to enhance their ecological status and preserve natural heritage.
What is funded: Lake Development Projects and Measures
The funding program supports a variety of lake development measures aimed at the rehabilitation and restoration of standing waters. This includes investments in near-natural development, reduction of pollutant inputs, desilting, and improvement of water retention. In addition, innovative procedures and various accompanying expenses are also eligible for funding to sustainably improve ecological and chemical water quality.
Type and Scope of Funding
Funding is provided as a non-repayable grant in the form of co-financing. The funding rate is generally up to 90% of the eligible expenses but can reach up to 100% in certain cases. The program includes detailed regulations for accounting for own contributions and in-kind contributions.
Conditions and Requirements
To avail of the funding, specific requirements must be met, relating to project implementation, compliance with environmental standards, and financial settlement. Special publicity obligations and audits must be observed when EU funds are involved.
Application Procedure
The application procedure for lake development is carried out through the Lower Saxony State Agency for Water Management, Coastal Defence and Nature Conservation (NLWKN). Applications must be submitted before the start of the project and include a detailed explanation of the project. Project selection is based on specific criteria, particularly for EAFRD-financed projects.
Legal Basis of the Funding Program
The funding for lake development projects is based on the Directive on the Granting of Subsidies for the Promotion of Lake Development Projects (RL Seenentwicklung – SEE). It is supplemented by further regulations of the European Union and the State of Lower Saxony, which regulate financial participation and general funding conditions.
Similar Programs
Funding Overview
Funding Status:
Open
Maximum Amount:
Up to 90% of eligible expenses
Open Until:
31.12.2025
Award Channel:
Competitive Tender
Region:
Lower Saxony (Germany)
Sectors:
Environmental and Climate Protection, Agriculture and Agribusiness
Application Type:
Single Applicant
Funding Stages:
Feasibility Study, Experimental Development, Implementation, Planning, Monitoring, Other, Applied Research
Funding Provider
Program Level:
Regional
Funding Body:
State of Lower Saxony, European Union
Managed By:
Lower Saxony State Agency for Water Management, Coastal Defence and Nature Conservation (NLWKN)