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Approximately two million euros in state funding for nature conservation has been approved for 2026
As the Darmstadt Regional Council reports, the authority met with landscape conservation associations in the administrative district for a full-day exchange. The focus was on the management of protected areas and the funding of these associations by the state of Hesse.
Regional President Prof. Dr. Jan Hilligardt emphasized the importance of cooperative work: The landscape conservation associations make a significant contribution to preserving biodiversity in southern Hesse through their practical collaboration. The involvement of agriculture, volunteer conservationists, and local communities ensures that projects are readily implemented on the ground and enjoy widespread acceptance.
Exchange on nature conservation and monitoring
Experts from the regional government provided information on current developments in nature conservation and future priorities. Topics included protected area monitoring and the financing of planned measures. At the same time, the associations took the opportunity to exchange experiences.
Landscape conservation associations receive state funding. In 2025, for the first time, associations in all ten districts of the administrative region received a total of €1.9 million in support. Approximately €2 million has been allocated again for 2026. These funds are used for the preparation, implementation, and evaluation of nature conservation measures.
Focus on Natura 2000 and open land
The funding focuses on implementing measures in Natura 2000 protected areas across Europe, particularly in open landscapes. The aim is to preserve or restore rare species and valuable habitats. Landscape conservation associations work closely with the Higher Nature Conservation Authority at the Darmstadt Regional Council, as well as with forestry offices and district authorities.
Current projects include, among others:
- Advising farmers on the environmentally sound management of species-rich grassland, for example through extensive grazing or mowing.
- Conservation projects for endangered species such as the European hamster, partridge, or amphibians.
- Maintenance and establishment of traditional orchards, including advising landowners and assisting with grant applications. This benefits species such as the little owl, common redstart, and wryneck.
Further information is available from the Darmstadt Regional Council at
rp-darmstadt.hessen.de .
(DARMSTADT – RED/RPDA)
Featured image: Regional President Prof. Dr. Jan Hilligardt with representatives of landscape conservation associations. Photo: Darmstadt
