The main content of this page starts here

Specially protected biotopes on five percent of the forest area The forest habitat – more biological diversity in the forests

Specially protected biotopes on five percent of the forest area

In addition to the designated and usually signposted protected areas (such as nature protection zones), certain biotopes are protected by the Federal Nature Conservation Act, Land Nature Conservation Acts or Land Forest Acts wherever they occur.

Nature conservation area. © sebi1992 - stock.adobe.com

Due to their special significance as biotopes, actions that could lead to their destruction or other considerable impairments are prohibited (Article 30 of the Federal Nature Conservation Act).

As a rule, these biotopes can be managed, but in individual cases may be subject to special restrictions.

The specially protected biotopes are located on approximately 593,000 hectares or 5% of the forest area. They are, in most cases (77 %), fen, swamp or lowland riparian forests as well as other wetland biotopes.