Nature Conservation & Biodiversity

The Lower Nature Conservation Authority is responsible for enforcing the Federal Nature Conservation Act (BNatschG), the State Nature Conservation Act (LNatschG), and the regulations based on these laws. In addition to protecting nature and landscapes, species protection is also considered. The tasks of the Lower Nature Conservation Authority particularly include the approval and monitoring of interventions in nature and landscapes and the submission of statements during participation in building law procedures.

Scope of Responsibilities

• Exemptions and derogations 

• Regulatory measures pursuant to the Federal Nature Conservation Act and State Nature Conservation Act 

• Statements on construction projects and interventions in nature and landscapes

  • Determinations and controls

  • Compensatory measures

  • Substitute measures, substitute payments

  • Species protection avoidance measures and proactive compensatory measures

• Regional transmission lines, supply lines 

• Equestrian matters

  • General regulations for horseback riding

  • Issuance of riding badges or riding plaques 

• Support for the Nature Conservation Advisory Board and Nature Conservation Watch 

• Protection of natural monuments

• Monitoring of international trade in protected species

  • Reporting obligation for keeping protected species

  • Issuance of marketing permits for protected species or products