Nature parks; explanation

Nature parks are usually initiated by districts and municipalities. In Bavaria, the areas are declared nature parks by the highest nature conservation authority.

Nature parks are characterized by large-scale natural and cultural landscapes in which the protection and preservation of biotope and species diversity is combined with the interests of environmentally compatible forms of recreation. They are large-scale areas of at least 20,000 ha in size that correspond to the natural structure of the area and are predominantly designated as landscape or nature conservation areas. They are suitable for forms of recreation that are compatible with nature and the environment. The aim is to use the land in a way that is compatible with nature and the environment in the long term. Appropriate forms of use should be used to preserve or promote diverse habitats. Nature parks should be planned, structured, developed and enhanced in accordance with nature conservation objectives.

The Bavarian State Ministry for the Environment and Consumer Protection, as the highest nature conservation authority, is responsible for declaring a nature park.