Main Volume Concept and Aims – in English

Nationalparkverwaltung
Bayerischer Wald
National Park Plan
MAIN VOLUME
Concept and Objectives
www.nationalpark-bayerischer-wald.de
Concept and Objectives
2 N AT I O N A L PA R K P L A N 2 0 1 0
Dr. Marcel Huber MdL
Melanie Huml MdL
Staatsminister
Staatssekretärin
There is hardly another country in Central Europe with
such a variety of species and habitats as can be found in Bavaria.
Alongside social security, unspoilt nature and a healthy
environment play an increasingly important role for its people.
Bavarian environment policy sets high standards in its pursuit
of an intact environment, nature and landscape conservation as
well as the sustainable use of resources. Protected areas, and in
particular the national parks in Bavaria, play a significant role in
this regard.
"Let nature be nature" is the objective of the Bavarian Forest
National Park, and in fact, there is nowhere else between the
Atlantic and the Urals where such a large area of forests, bogs,
mountain streams and lakes is allowed to develop according to
its very own laws, into a unique wild forest landscape. Founded
on 7th October 1970 as the first national park in Germany it
was extended on 1st August 1997, and now covers an area of
24,250 hectares. Together with its immediate neighbour, the
Šumava National Park in the Czech Republic, the Bavarian
Forest National Park comprises the largest continuous area of
forest in Central Europe.
Protection is afforded above all to the spruce rich high
forests, the mixed mountain forests of beech, fir and spruce as
well as the bogs and meadow spruce forests in the hollows and
valleys. Particularly valuable are the remnants of primeval
forests at the foot of the Rachel and the Falkenstein, as well as
the Schachten, former cattle grazing grounds which with their
striking individual trees, remain witness to earlier human usage.
Evidence of the high importance attributed internationally to
the Bavarian Forest National Park includes its official recognition by the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of
Nature) and the award of the European Diploma by the
Council of Europe.
With around 760,000 visitors annually, the Bavarian Forest
National Park, with its extensive network of hiking trails,
numerous information facilities and wide range of environmental education courses, is also an important economic factor
in the region. A study by the University of Würzburg has
shown that the annual value generated by the national park is
around €28 million.
Based on the national park decree, the national park plan
presented in this document sets out the medium term objectives
and measures for the development of the Bavarian Forest
National Park. It provides the national park administration
with guidelines for its day to day work and other organisations
and institutions involved with the national park as well as
interested citizens with important information.
Through coordination with the Bavarian State Ministry for
Food, Agriculture and Forests, the Bavarian State Ministry for
Economy, Infrastructure, Transport and Technology, the Local
Government National Park Committee and the National Park
Advisory Board, the National Park Plan has been placed on
a firm footing. We are convinced that it will make a significant
contribution to furthering the development of the national park
in the spirit of nature protection to the benefit of local people
and visitors.
CONCEPT AND OBJECTIVES 3
Content
Introduction
4
Concept of the Bavarian Forest National Park
8
Objectives for the Development
of the Bavarian Forest National Park
10
1. Nature Protection
11
2. Education, Information and Public Relations
14
3. Research
18
4. Recreation
20
5. Integration of the National Park in the Region
24
The Rachel Lake – the only natural
glacial lake in the National Park
(Photo: Hans Kiener)
4 N AT I O N A L PA R K P L A N 2 0 1 0
Introduction
Transformed by a competitor – a beech seedling on rotten wood.
(Photo: Karl Friedrich Sinner)
The purpose of national parks across the world is the
preservation of unspoilt landscapes as national natural heritage
for future generations. Nature in national parks should be
allowed to develop according to its own laws and without
human interference. National parks offer visitors the
opportunity to experience nature (wilderness) largely
uninfluenced by man and to get to know nature and how it
works.
National parks originated in North America, where the
Yellowstone National Park was founded in 1872. Nearly 100
years later in 1970, the Bavarian Forest National Park became
the first national park to be founded in Germany. Since then,
the number of national parks in Germany has risen to 14.
A national park does not exist in isolation, but is an integral
part of the region where it is located. There are numerous
ecological and socio-economic interactions between the
protected area and its surroundings. Within the statutory
objectives of national parks there are competing aims. One of
the functions of a national park plan is to set out priorities in
the management objectives of the national park and to lay down
medium term measures as a basis for an annual action plan. In
this way, the gradual development of a landscape hitherto used
by man into a natural landscape can be followed in a targeted
way. National park plans are essential particularly in Central
Europe, where because of the centuries-long human use, the
current population density and the multiplicity of interests and
land usage requirements, make them the only way to ensure the
development and continued existence of internationally
recognised national parks.
The current National Park Plan was prepared and compiled
on the basis of the Bavarian Forest National Park ordinance of
22nd July 1997 (NP-VO), amended on 17th September 2007, by
the National Park Administration in conjunction with the Local
Government National Park Committee.
After review by the advisory board, the National Park Plan
was approved by the Bavarian State Ministry for Environment
and Health and came into force on the 22nd December 2011.
The approval was effected in agreement with the State
Ministry for Food, Agriculture and Forestry as well as
Economy, Transport and Technology.
CONCEPT AND OBJECTIVES 5
Preparation of the National Park Plan
(Stages of Development)
National Park Administration
Preparation
Local Government National Park Committee
Assistance
National Park Advisory Board
Review
Ministries for Economic Affairs & Agriculture
Action, Agreement
Ministry for Environment Approval, Implementation
and Public Health
A pine marten – a furtive resident of the mountain forest
(Photo: Karol Kaliský)
6 N AT I O N A L PA R K P L A N 2 0 1 0
The prime function of the national park plan is to set out,
in the medium term, the objectives and measures for the
national park which arise from the purpose and tasks set out in
the national park regulation. In addition, the national park plan
sets out the network of paths to be maintained, the forest
conservation and forest stewardship measures, as well as the
development of zoning.
The national park plan has initially been prepared for a
planning period of 10 years. The detailed planning will be
continued as necessary.
The national park administration, in conjunction with the
local government national park committee, uses the national
park plan as the basis for planning the individual measures and
programmes within the operating plans. Supervisory control is
exercised by the Bavarian State Ministry for Environment and
Public Health. The publication of the national park plan is
intended to inform the various departments and institutions
concerned with the park of the objectives, tasks and legal basis
as well as the current plans and measures.
The national park plan is divided into a section on
Objectives (Concept and Objectives) and Annexes (Sectoral
and Detailed Plans):
Structure of the National Park Plan
Annexes
CONCEPT AND OBJECTIVES 7
National Park towns and villages
Falkenstein-Rachel-Area
Rachel-Lusen-Area
National Park Border
County of Regen
County of Freyung-Grafenau
The terms ‘Altpark’ (original park) and ‘Erweiterungsgebiet’
(park extension) are no longer used in the national park plan.
After more than 10 years since the extension of the original
national park (‘Altpark’) in 1997 to include the areas of
Klingenbrunn Forest and that of the former Zwiesel Forestry
Office, with various areas bought in addition (‘Erweiterungsgebiet’), the terms are now out of date.
Instead, the terms Falkenstein-Rachel-Area (Regen District
Council) and Rachel-Lusen-Area (Freyung-Grafenau District
Council) are used throughout. The border between the two areas
is determined by the district council borders. This new division
has resulted in some slight changes to the existing border:
• The so-called Klingenbrunn Forest, which was within the
extended area, now belongs to the Rachel-Lusen-Area which
otherwise consists of the original National Park area of 1970
(the ‘original park area’). This is actually not a contradiction as
the new nature zones had already been established here so
that this area was already comparable with the original
national park area with regard to zoning and management.
• The Rachel Forest area on the north side of the Rachel
Mountain now belongs to the ‘Falkenstein-Rachel-Area’. This
area in the District of Regen has been part of the National
Park since 1971. Otherwise, the ‘Falkenstein-Rachel-Area
covers the areas of the former Zwiesel Forestry Office with
various areas bought in addition, which used to be known as
the ‘Erweiterungsgebiet’.
As a result of these reforms, there are also changes in the
area and zoning proportions. In addition, this new
nomenclature does not mean any changes in respect of status
and management of the areas.
8 N AT I O N A L PA R K P L A N 2 0 1 0
Concept of the Bavarian Forest National Park
The Bavarian Forest National Park is responsible for protecting a typical Central European, mainly
forested, low mountain range with its natural and semi-natural ecosystems as national natural
heritage for present and future generations, in accordance with the Bavarian Law on Nature
Protection and the National Park ordinance. The work of natural environmental forces and the
undisturbed dynamic of ecosystems are thereby ensured above all. The forests of the national park will
therefore revert in the long term without human interference to natural forests. Events of nature such
as wind and snow damage, together with insect and fungus infestations, are important factors in the
natural development of the forest.
Storm damage and insects determine the evolution of the mountain forest as ‘ecosystem engineers’ (Photo: Reinhold Weinberger)
CONCEPT AND OBJECTIVES 9
The Three-toed Woodpecker benefits in the short term from the increase in insects after a bark beetle attack
and can be easily seen at ‘work’ (Photo left: Rainer Simonis, Photo right: Maria Hußlein)
In the border areas of the national park it is ensured that the
natural forest development will not have any negative effects on
the neighbouring areas.
There is no commercial use of natural resources within the
national park. Existing usage which is not compatible with the
protective purpose of the national park should cease as soon as
possible – provided there are no overwhelming reasons of
public good for allowing it to continue. Transitional periods are
necessary for cultural and socio-economic reasons.
As well as protecting natural processes the national park is
also responsible for protection of species and habitats. The
natural local animal and plant world should be retained and
reintroduction made possible. Habitats surrounded by forest,
such as bogs, areas of rock and water need to be protected or
restored.
Areas and monuments of cultural and historical importance
are to be preserved in their typical appearance.
The Bavarian Forest National Park is open for people to
experience wilderness and for sustainable educational and
leisure activities. This allows the objectives of the national park
and the ecological relationships of natural processes to be
communicated to the general public. As an institution for
environmental education, it promotes the understanding of
nature and environmental protection. Educational and
recreational facilities also contribute to the guiding of visitors.
The findings of scientific studies and research on natural
processes in forest ecosystems not touched by man also
contributes to nature conservation, natural history education
and natural forestry beyond the park boundaries.
The national park shapes the appearance and character of
the region. As flagship for environmentally and culturally
friendly tourism it strengthens the economic infrastructure. The
national park is interconnected with its surroundings either side
of its borders, from ecological, economic, political and cultural
points of view. The interests of the local population are taken
into account by the national park in its planning and actions.
This is intended to encourage the integration and acceptance of
the national park in the region.
1 0 N AT I O N A L PA R K P L A N 2 0 1 0
Objectives for the Development
of the Bavarian Forest National Park
The national park is managed and developed in such a way as to give priority to the requirements of
nature conservation. At the same time, it is to promote environmental education, scientific knowledge
and the experience of nature within the framework of nature protection. The national park should
also contribute to the structural development of the region.
In the following sections, the objectives within the individual areas of work are set out and expanded
upon in order of importance. Where conflicts arise between competing objectives of equal value in the
areas of work, these can only be resolved on a case by case basis.
The gradual opening of the leaves means that not all trees are damaged by late frosts (Photo: Sven Zellner)
CONCEPT AND OBJECTIVES 11
The Honey Buzzard - a rare bird
of prey in this area - hunts its prey
on the ground
(Photo: Rainer Simonis)
1. Nature Protection
1.1.
Preservation of a typical central European,
mainly forested, low mountain range landscape
National parks are, according to nature protection laws, the
most effective way of protecting large areas of natural or nearnatural landscape. In the densely populated landscapes of
central Europe, heavily influenced by human use, unspoilt and
unfragmented areas of nature have become rare. The forested
area of the inner Bavarian Forest along the Bavarian-Czech
border is one of the few landscapes which can still be regarded
as near-natural. This was also the reason for creating the first
German national park in the Bavarian Forest in 1970 and
extending it in 1997. The prime objective of the Bavarian Forest
National Park is therefore to preserve this characteristic low
mountain range landscape, with its natural and near-natural
ecosystems, as a representative part of the nation’s natural
heritage and to retain its essential character.
1.2.
Protection of the natural forest development,
undisturbed by people
According to the national regulations (Federal Law on
Protection of Nature, Bavarian Law on Protection of Nature,
National Park Ordinance) and international requirements
(Habitats Directive, Birds Directive, IUCN Guidelines) the
first priority of the Bavarian Forest National Park should be to
protect the natural dynamic of the ecosystems (protection of
natural processes). This means that, in the long term, at least
three quarters of the forested area should be allowed to develop
without human interference. Only in the border area of the
national park will there be intervention in the natural
development for the protection of forests bordering the park
and also in the visitor attractions such as the animal enclosures.
If forest regeneration in the high altitude areas is patchy or
delayed, support should be given to the development of
appropriate natural vegetation. In the Falkenstein-Rachel area,
natural forest development is being carried out on 75% of the
area during a transition period lasting until 2027.
1 2 N AT I O N A L PA R K P L A N 2 0 1 0
1.3.
Conservation and reintroduction of native animal
and plant species
The large near-natural habitats in the national park are of
national and international importance for species protection.
The national park places particular emphasis on the
preservation and reintroduction of the natural biological
diversity. This happens to a great extent through the natural
development of the ecosystem.
In the course of history, settlement and use of the Bavarian
Forest have permanently changed the animal and plant world.
For example, hoofed game animals currently have to be
managed because of the lack of natural predators and disruptive
environmental factors, (see Appendix ‘Schalenwildmanagement’). Other species were deliberately eliminated or are now
under serious threat because of changes to their habitats and
other disturbances. In these cases, supportive measures are
required, in order to prevent a stark reduction in numbers or
even complete disappearance from the region (see Appendix ‚
Arten- und Biotopschutz ). The designation of peaceful zones
(core areas with no access) supports these species protection
measures.
The Höllbachgespreng and waterfall
in the Falkenstein area have been
a protected nature area since 1941
(Photo: Hans Kiener)
1.4.
Preservation and Reestablishment of Natural,
Unforested Habitats
From a nature protection point of view, unforested habitats
such as moors and areas of rock and water represent
a significant enrichment of the diversity of habitats. An
undisturbed development of these naturally tree-free areas is
also an objective. However for reasons of species and habitat
protection, especially where there has been human interference,
positive measures can be necessary (see Appendix ‘Renaturierung / Renaturalization’).
Disruptive influences by visitors, in particular, need to be
avoided in these sensitive habitats. The direction of visitors
should achieve the minimum of damage.
CONCEPT AND OBJECTIVES 13
The Knotenbachklause near Altschönau – a timber rafting cultural
heritage site (Photo: Hans Kiener)
1.5. Socially responsible phasing out of existing uses that
are in conflict with national park objectives
A natural ecosystem development can only be guaranteed
if existing uses that are in conflict with the national park
objectives are phased out. Because of socio-economic
requirements this happens within a socially responsible
transition period. When the existing uses end, the
infrastructure connected with them can also be removed. This
does not affect special rights and measures permitted when the
national park law came into force, such as water usage. (see
Appendix ‘Nutzungen und Gestattungen’).
1.6.
Preservation of valuable cultural landscapes and
monuments
Pastures, sites of former glassworks, logging dams and
canals as well as to some extent also former forest workers’ huts
and logging tracks are evidence of the cultural and historical
development of the region. Such valuable objects are therefore
to be preserved for the education of future generations.
Furthermore, the grazing areas enrich the diversity of habitats
within the forest ecosystem. They are therefore to be preserved
in their present extent.
Monitoring of nature protection regulations and providing information to visitors are major tasks of the
National Park Administration (Photo: Chris Gat)
1.7.
Consolidation of the national park area with areas
valuable for nature protection
The process of developing the national park includes
consolidating additional areas valuable for nature protection
through acquisition which significantly contribute to the legal
duty of the national park for nature protection. Priority is given
to areas within the stipulated external borders of the national
park, which have stood in the way of renaturation measures so
far, which are in protected areas that existed prior to the
foundation of the national park (e.g. Klosterfilz), which
contribute to reducing the border area of the national park
and/or are valuable for species and habitat protection.
1.8.
Guaranteeing the observation of protection
regulations in the national park
The Bavarian Forest National Park can only fulfil its
objective of protection if the observation of protection
regulations can be guaranteed. Primarily responsible for
monitoring the protection regulations is the National Park
Ranger Service. Their presence at places where there are many
visitors and in areas sensitive to disturbance counters damaging
behaviour. Explaining, informing and advising visitors are the
main elements of their work.
1 4 N AT I O N A L PA R K P L A N 2 0 1 0
2. Environmental Education, Information
and Public Relations
2.1.
Communication of the purpose and objectives of
national parks, in particular the Bavarian Forest
National Park
The most important task of the work in environmental
education, information and public relations is to communicate
the purpose of the national park – the protection of natural
processes (see Appendix „Bildungs-, Informations- und
Öffentlichkeitsarbeit“). Every visitor who takes part in
a National Park educational activity should gain an understanding of the basic concept of nature conservation in the
national park, of protecting nature for its own sake. Interest in
and understanding of the workings of undisturbed nature in its
various forms should be nurtured in and made accessible to
visitors. The national park visitor should grapple with the
relevant themes as actively as possible.
A particular focus of the work in education, information
and public relations is to inform visitors about the particular
natural processes of forest development and regeneration within
the Bavarian Forest National Park. In addition, the necessary
commands and prohibitions should also be explained and the
reason and necessity for them made clear, thereby increasing the
acceptance of the whole national park. Results of current
research should also inform the educational work.
The wide variety of educational options should appeal to
the largest possible range of people and should be designed as
far as possible according to technique (e.g. guided tours,
lectures, exhibitions, media) and facilities (e.g. information
points, educational trails) for specific target groups (e.g. local
people, tourists, children).
Snow shoe walks – an increasingly popular way of experiencing the forest wilderness of the National Park in winter (Photo: Maria Hußlein)
CONCEPT AND OBJECTIVES 15
2.2.
Environmentally friendly accessibility of the
national park for educational purposes
In accordance with the national park regulations, the
Bavarian Forest National Park should be made accessible to the
public for educational and recreational purposes. Natural
history education and nature-based recreation are connected in
that the recreational facilities always fulfil an educational role
and vice versa.
Educational and other information is communicated in the
open air as well as in special visitor and information facilities
(see Appendix „Bildungs- und Erholungseinrichtungen”). The
information facilities in the area include a network of marked
paths and nature trails as well as guided tours organised by the
national park administration. The main educational centres of
the Bavarian Forest National Park are the Lusen National Park
Centre (Hans-Eisenmann-Haus with tree top walk, animal
enclosures, plant and rock displays), the Falkenstein National
Park Centre (Haus zur Wildnis with animal enclosures and
Stone Age cave), the Jugendwaldheim (forest youth house), the
Wilderness Camp at the Mount Falkenstein as well as the forest
playground. These information and educational centres were
built on the edge of the national park and serve environmental
education as well as visitor management purposes.
The national park administration’s educational programme
also includes facilities close to the national park such as the
Forest History Museum in St. Oswald and the national park
information points in Bayerisch Eisenstein, Zwiesel, Frauenau,
Mauth and Spiegelau.
2.3.
Promotion of general environmental education
The educational work of the Bavarian Forest National Park
is not just confined to the aims and objectives of national parks;
it should also encourage a general understanding of nature and
environmental protection, as well as stimulate action. The
educational work of the national park with its fascinating
natural environment provides a unique natural experience. It
provides an active experience of nature and raises the question
of whether this experience can be transferred to other areas of
life; it’s not just about nature but also about people’s personal
development.
Increasingly, elements of education for sustainable
development are being implemented. Education for sustainable
development is not a subject but a process. It goes further than
ecological questions and covers also economic and social issues.
In relation to education for sustainable development and in
keeping with its model role, the national park tries to direct its
activities and facilities to provide a model for excellent
environmental management, with the objective of achieving
EMAS certification.
The Bavarian Forest National Park as part of a worldwide
network of protected areas also has the opportunity to apply
elements of global knowledge.
In the Bavarian Forest National Park, methods from the
experience oriented communication of knowledge have been
developed and put into practice under the motto of “Experience
the Forest – Understand Nature”. These have since been taken
up by many other educational establishments. Our role as
a pioneer in environmental education should be maintained and
further developed.
Emphasis in the environmental education programme is on
youth work. An objective is also to work closely together with
the Bavarian Forest Nature Park.
1 6 N AT I O N A L PA R K P L A N 2 0 1 0
The detail of a clump of moss and the delicate beauty of its
features can only be truly appreciated through the lens
of a magnifying glass (Photo: Thomas Stephan)
2.4.
Promoting integration and acceptance of the
national park amongst the local population
The nature protection objective of national parks („Let
nature be nature“) is in conflict with the thinking which has
dominated in Germany since the beginning of nature protection
in the 19th century, which takes a very static view of the
preservation of certain situations (e.g. the appearance of some
agricultural landscapes). As this idea is almost totally based on
cultural heritage (on what is “man made”) it is extremely
difficult to get local agreement on protection areas where nature
should be allowed to develop according to its own laws.
In the Bavarian Forest National Park, the national park
objective mostly requires the rejection of active or guiding
measures, whilst allowing forests to develop, grow and die
naturally. For the local population, their image of the forest is
still strongly influenced by the farming of the forest. The fact
that the forests of the national park are now governed by a quite
different objective and the dying of individual trees or even
whole areas of old trees is regarded as a natural development,
At exhibitions and other national events, the Bavarian Forest
and Šumava National Park regions use the joint brand ‘tierisch wild’
(untamed wilderness) (Photo: Britta Baums)
makes acceptance of the national park by sections of the local
population very problematic. The national park administration
takes the concerns, fears and requirements of the local
population seriously. Without a degree of consensus amongst
the local population in favour of their nature protection
objectives, national parks cannot survive in the long term.
The most important function of public relations work is that
the employees of the national park administration communicate
the importance and objectives of the national park to the local
population. Each one is expected to contribute to enhancing the
image of the national park.
In addition, the acceptance and integration of the national
park should be promoted through work with existing local
organisations and educational institutions (especially with the
nature park) as well as through greater openness and
involvement of the local population in decisions on the future
development of the national park. The local government
national park committee and the national park advisory board
also play an important role in this process.
CONCEPT AND OBJECTIVES 17
2.5.
Informing the population of the activities and plans
of the national park administration
Central to the public relations work is reporting on plans,
developments and current operations in the national park as
well as the activities of the national park administration. The
public relations work should contribute to the realisation of the
objectives of the national park as well as enhance understanding
of the work of the national park administration. Successful
external public relations work also requires appropriate
communication of information internally. As all employees in
contact with the population carry out public relations work,
it is essential that all staff receive the necessary information and
pass it on.
The local government national park committee and the
national park advisory board also play an important role here.
2.6.
Portrayal of the national park and the work of the
national park administration in the media
Public relations work in and for the national park is
interpreted in the widest sense. This includes on the one hand
working with media such as newspapers, magazines, radio and
TV and on the other hand individual events such as
anniversaries, open days, presentations of the national park at
exhibitions or local festivals. Drawing on the background of the
national park idea and its special aims and role in nature
conservation, the priority of the national park’s public relations
work is to present the work of the national park administration,
as well as the natural evolution in the national park, to the
widest possible audience. Public relations work in the future
should be as active as possible, in order to strengthen positive
representation and reporting in the media.
Guided tours and other events give guests a wide range of opportunities to experience wilderness (Photo: Maria Hußlein)
1 8 N AT I O N A L PA R K P L A N 2 0 1 0
3. Research
3.1.
Formulation of the scientific principles for the
implementation of national park objectives
In order to realise long term planning objectives and
optimum efficiency of the national park administration, it is
necessary to undertake a careful appraisal of the animate and
inanimate natural environment of the national park (inventory).
The research into this basic information should provide results
on the landscape, natural and cultural history of the area, the
settlements and infrastructure, the former and existing uses as
well as the current research situation.
When carrying out research in the national park, it is
important to take care that the research methods applied have
as little impact as possible on the natural development of the
ecosystem. Observational research should normally take priority
over experimental research methods in the area being studied.
3.3.
The main emphasis of scientific observation in the Bavarian
Forest National Park is the research and documentation of the
development of the forest ecosystems in predominantly natural
ways, uninfluenced by man. The development of the forest, the
ecosystems and the range of species should be documented by
long term monitoring of representative sectors (long term
observation areas, inventories). Special questions are dealt with
in supplementary project research. In the interests of
effectiveness these can also be awarded to third parties (e.g.
universities, scientific institutes). As a result of the death of
large areas of old mountain spruce, research into natural forest
succession in the areas of higher altitude is particularly
important.
3.4.
3.2.
Monitoring the efficiency of the management of the
national park
It is of fundamental importance for effective management of
the national park that the effectiveness of measures to achieve
objectives is monitored continuously. The optimisation of these
measures requires continuous use of scientific observation and
research. The results of the research work should serve to
formulate scientific recommendations for further support and
improved implementation of measures for nature protection.
This research work also needs to take account of the
surrounding area as there is considerable interaction between
the development of the national park and its surroundings.
Research and documentation of the development of
the forest ecosystems without human influence
Recording of human influences and their impact on
the ecosystems
Worldwide there are no natural landscapes left which are
completely unaffected by humankind. In comparison with
commercial forests, the forests in the national park can develop
without any direct human exploitation. Thus the forests of the
national park can be drawn on as zero areas for the recording of
man-made influences and their impact on the ecosystems for
purposes of comparative research.
Research proposals of the national park in the area of pure
research and environmental monitoring (e.g. ECE - „Integrated
Monitoring“ in the trout stream area) should be included in
national and international research projects.
CONCEPT AND OBJECTIVES 19
Systems for automatic measurement of meteorological and olfactory data (Photo: Heiner Rall)
3.5.
Recording of socio-economic and socio-ecological
interrelationships
Research in the Bavarian Forest National Park should also
identify the interrelationship between the national park, the
surrounding area, national park visitors and the population of
the region. Important aspects are, on the one hand, the
socioeconomic effects, i.e. the significance of the national park
for the economic development of the region. On the other
hand, the socio-ecological effects for the implementation of
nature protection objectives are vital, that is, the extent to which
the natural processes in the national park are impacted by
visitors and recreational users of the national park and by
developments in the surrounding areas.
3.6.
Exploitation and processing of research results for
nature protection, science and forestry practices as
well as environmental education and public relations
The scientific studies in the national park enable insights
into pristine ecosystems as well as for cultivated areas outside
the national park to be derived and especially the recognition of
the correlations between man and nature. Knowledge of natural
processes in forests not used by people is particularly valuable
for nature protection, science and nature-oriented forestry. The
research results should be made available to the towns and
villages close to the national park and also the members of the
national park advisory board. In addition, the research should
underpin the educational and public relations work of the
national park. The research results should be formatted in such
a way that they can be available at short notice and generally be
easy to understand. The methods and opportunities of data
processing (databases, geographical information systems,
networks etc.) should be used in the documentation of research
results.
3.7.
Interpretation and overview of research results
important for the national park
The national park administration can only carry out its
functions as far as nature protection, education and public
relations are concerned if the necessary information and findings
converge at their offices. It is incumbent upon the administration
that they have a complete overview. The basis for completion of
the various research tasks is a research concept (see Appendix
“Forschung”). This is essential for setting the priorities for the
research plan, the coordination of the work (potentially by third
parties) and for excluding research proposals which compromise
the purpose of protection or lie outside the national park’s
specific areas of interest. It is also important, that research
results from outside the national park are tied in with the
research work of the national park and discussed.
2 0 N AT I O N A L PA R K P L A N 2 0 1 0
4. Recreation
4.1.
Opening of the national park to environmentally
sustainable forms of recreation and nature
experience
According to current legal rules as well as the IUCN
guidelines, national parks are responsible for education and
recreational objectives as well as nature protection. As these are
in essence conflicting objectives, the national park ordinance
stipulates that the establishment of the national park is for
recreational activities which protect nature and that these
activities may not adversely affect the protective purpose of the
national park. The compatibility of recreational activities with
nature will be measured primarily against effects on the
ecosystem, in particular the animal and plant world.
A perfectly structured network of paths makes a significant
contribution to environmentally sustainable recreation in the
national park. Visitors to the park are brought to the special
features and wild forest on well marked paths. The number and
condition of the paths as well as the signposting have to reflect
the protective purpose of the national park. Areas of the
national park which are particularly sensitive cannot be
included. The path network for the various recreational
activities can be found in the Appendix “Wegeplan”.
The mountain summits of the National Park – this is on the Lusen – are amongst the most popular destinations (Photo: Alice Alteneder)
CONCEPT AND OBJECTIVES 21
4.2.
Creating opportunities for experiencing unspoilt
nature (“Wilderness”)
As there are hardly any areas in central Europe with
unspoilt nature, the image of nature is strongly influenced by
the picture of cultural landscapes. The aim of the Bavarian
Forest National Park is therefore to create opportunities to
experience unspoilt nature (“wilderness”). As the alienation
from nature takes hold in the large conurbations and industrial
centres, so the need for untouched nature grows. With
resources such as the “Seelensteig” nature trail or programmes
such as the “nature experience days” the Bavarian Forest
National Park helps to meet this need.
4.3.
Construction and further development of modern
visitor facilities for environmental education and
recreational activities
As well as an attractive network of paths, special visitor and
other facilities increase considerably the attractiveness of the
national park. The most important visitor facilities in the
Bavarian Forest National Park are the National Park Centres
Lusen (Hans-Eisenmann-Haus with tree top walk, and animal,
plant and rock enclosures) and Falkenstein (Haus zur Wildnis
with animal enclosures and Stone Age cave). These facilities are
not just for visitor recreation but also above all for
environmental education.
The latest teaching methods were taken into account during
the establishment and in the subsequent development of these
facilities in order to maintain and enhance their attractiveness.
In addition, the visitor facilities make a considerable
contribution to visitor management thereby helping to protect
sensitive natural areas. For this reason, most of the visitor
facilities are located around the edge of the national park.
In the Falkenstein-Rachel Area the visitor facilities are more
or less complete so future development is directed mainly at
modernisation of facilities in the Rachel-Lusen area. The
construction and running of visitor facilities also contributes to
the attractiveness of the region to tourists and the acceptance of
the national park amongst the local population. (see Appendix
„Bildungs-und Erholungseinrichtung“).
One of the major functions of the national park
administration is ensuring the safety of all the visitor facilities
(including the network of paths).
2 2 N AT I O N A L PA R K P L A N 2 0 1 0
A hands on approach for the first experience of the fascinating world
of untamed nature in the National park (Photo: Maria Hußlein)
The National Park uses distinctively carved wood to
present itself and its facilities (Photo: Maria Hußlein)
4.4.
the national park. In addition, information is also provided on
the educational and recreational facilities around the national
park (and nature park). Visitors can find the information at the
national park centres and information points, in the form of
personal advice, flyers, books, exhibitions, films and information
boards. The National Park Ranger Service has an important
role in assisting visitors in the field.
Assistance for national park visitors
The Bavarian Forest National Park, with its unique nature
and its visitor attractions, offers many opportunities for
recreation and experiencing nature. Hundreds of thousands of
visitors come to the national park every year. Providing
assistance for these guests is a considerable task for the national
park administration.
As well as information about the objectives and purpose of
the Bavarian Forest National Park, visitors are also provided
with information with which to plan their stay in the national
park. Visitors should be aware of the various opportunities to
experience nature, special features and also possible dangers in
The safety of national park visitors, including care for them
in emergencies, is covered by appropriate actions (traffic
calming, the presence of the National Park Ranger Service at
well-frequented visitor locations, procedures for raising the
alarm and rescue.).
CONCEPT AND OBJECTIVES 23
4.5.
Coordination and harmonisation in the provision
of recreational and visitor facilities
As the size and purpose of the national park mean that it
can only provide visitor facilities to a certain extent, more visitor
infrastructure has been set up in the area around the national
park. In addition, there are many recreational facilities provided
by others (e.g. Bavarian Forest Nature Park, nearby towns and
villages) in the area around the national park. With respect to
“gentle” nature tourism, the provision of recreational facilities is
best coordinated, also in a transboundary manner together with
the Šumava National Park.
Simple devices like bug eye viewers provide a fascinating insight into the habitat of small organisms such as the caddis fly (Photo: Joachim Hußlein)
2 4 N AT I O N A L PA R K P L A N 2 0 1 0
5. Integration of the national park
in the region
5.1.
Strengthening the ecological, cultural and economic
basis of the region around the national park and its
development
When the Bavarian Forest National Park was founded and
extended, as well as nature protection objectives, it had the
structural development of the region in mind, particularly the
development of tourism. Due to its visitor facilities and
opportunities for recreation, the Bavarian Forest National Park
has become an economic motor in the region and has therefore
fulfilled its objective extremely well.
The target towards which we are working is the realisation
of a model economic ecological region with natural and cultural
landscapes side by side. When possible, the national park
administration will support measures (exhibitions, educational
trails, educational facilities, concepts) in the region, when these
correspond with the objectives of an ecological model region
and the national park. Concerning this objective, all planners in
the area around the national park should ensure that they avoid
developments that damage nature and the landscape thereby
reducing the recreational value of the national park region.
Within the framework of its nature protection objectives the
national park will make a particular effort to enhance the
attractiveness of the region to tourists.
More than 70 mainly tourism related enterprises in the national park region are partners of the national park.
A win-win situation which also benefits holiday visitors (Photo: Ernstlhof/Kaikenried)
CONCEPT AND OBJECTIVES 25
The first broken and moss covered branches enrich the mono-culture
areas developed in the 150 years of cultivated forest
(Photo: Konrad Jäger)
The so-called attractant panels help to monitor
the progress of swarming of the large spruce
bark beetle (Photo: Hans Kiener)
5.2.
5.3.
Protection of the forests bordering the national park
In the Bavarian Forest National Park the vast majority of
the forest area is allowed to develop without human interference
and return to its natural state. Natural occurences like wind and
snow damage and insect and fungus infestation are part of
natural forest development and do not require any human
intervention. However in the area bordering the national park it
is important to make sure that there are no negative effects on
neighbouring land from the natural forest development in the
national park. The national park administration takes necessary
and effective forest protection measures in a border area at least
500 metres wide in order to protect the neighbouring forest.
These forest protection measures as well as the exact
boundaries of the border area are set out in the Appendix
“Walderhaltungs- und Waldpflegemaßnahmen”.
The objective of protecting the neighbouring forests from
damage is a basic prerequisite for the integration and acceptance
of the national park in the region. The national park
administration gives this aspect the highest priority in its
planning of measures to be taken.
Protection of the high altitude forests
As well as the fundamental importance of the high altitude
forests for water supply and the genetic potential of an
indigenous cold climate spruce species in the low mountains,
the mountain spruce forest (the “high forest”) is also of cultural
and historical importance. For this reason, the old high altitude
spruce forest in the Falkenstein-Rachel area needs to be
protected from rapid and broad extinction. In the period to
2027, the expansion of the bark beetle in the high altitude
forest between the Falkenstein and Rachel is to be prevented.
In the Rachel-Lusen area, where the old trees in the high
altitude area have already been killed by bark beetle attack over
a large area, the process of natural forest renewal should be
allowed to continue unhindered. However, if the natural forest
renewal fails to happen over a wide area and long period,
support will be given to the development of a natural forest
appropriate for the area.
The relevant measures for combating the bark beetle and for
forest protection as well as the exact boundaries of the zones are
set out in the Appendix “Walderhaltungs- und
Waldpflegemaßnahmen”.
2 6 N AT I O N A L PA R K P L A N 2 0 1 0
Through the German-Czech Youth Forum, young people gain direct experience of nature in the Bavarian Forest
– Šumava National Park region and the wilderness becomes a familiar environment (Photo: Hans Kiener)
5.4.
Promotion of transboundary co-operation
The Bavarian Forest and Šumava National Parks have
a unique opportunity to create a cross border bilateral national
park of European importance. Close cooperation in the
realisation of the objectives of both national parks is therefore
essential. The most important elements in the development of
a bilateral national park are agreed objectives and joint activities
in nature protection, education, research, recreation and culture.
Examples of cross border projects of the Bavarian Forest and
Šumava National Parks include the forest hiking area in the
Finsterau/Bučina area, the Bavarian-Czech information and
meeting centre at the border railway station in Bayerisch
Eisenstein / Železná Ruda, cooperation between the two ranger
services, joint Natura 2000 management planning and the joint
lynx research project. These and the already existing cross
border paths can also make a significant contribution to
understanding between peoples and acceptance of the national
parks in the region.
5.5.
Support for measures for improving the yields in
agriculture and forestry in the areas around
the national park
There are many interactions between the national park and
its surrounding areas. The national park is home to many rare
and endangered animal species, whose habitat does not end at
the borders of the national park. For many of them, the
surrounding areas are an important extension of their habitat.
In the winter months, when there is considerable snow in the
national park, the surrounding areas are very important to
many animal species as areas of refuge. The farmed landscapes
around the national park can therefore make a considerable
contribution to the protection of species. For this reason,
environmentally sustainable measures for improvements in
yields from agriculture and forestry in the areas surrounding
the national park would be sensible (e.g. direct marketing).
CONCEPT AND OBJECTIVES 27
5.6.
Improvements in local public transport
The Bavarian Forest National Park has hundreds of
thousands of visitors every year. Around 90% of leisure visitors
arrive by car at present. On the one hand, this individual travel
endangers the attractiveness of the national park region; on the
other hand it damages the quality of life of the local population.
A high level of individual travel stands in contradiction to the
the main nature protection objectives of the national park.
Therefore it has to be an objective to reduce the level of
motorized individual travel by increasing the use of public
transport. Public transport should also be as environmentally
friendly as possible. The railway (“Waldbahn”) and the Igelbus
(hedgehog bus) system are particularly important.
5.7.
Information and agreement on measures and plans
in the national park and the surrounding area
The bodies represented in the local government national
park committee, the nature park association and the national
park administration have to inform each other of the measures
and plans which are important for the national park and the
surrounding area and agree them in good time. This should
above all strengthen positive development opportunities, avoid
bad developments and encourage the integration of the national
park in the region.
National Park Rangers offer advice to visitors and are ambassadors for the National Park concept (Photo: Chris Gat)
2 8 N AT I O N A L PA R K P L A N 2 0 1 0
On the way from the Rachel chapel to the summit of the Rachel there are spectacular views across the endless forest – here from the banks of
the Rachel Lake (Photo: Hans Kiener)
Impressum
PUBLISHER:
Bavarian Forest National Park Administration
Freyungerstr. 2
94481 Grafenau (NPBW)
INTERNET:
www.nationalpark-bayerischer-wald.de
E-MAIL:
poststelle@npv-bw.bayern.de
GRAPHIC DESIGN:
Václav Hraba, akademic painter and graphic artist
AUTHORS:
Jochen Linner, Josef Wanninger
PHOTO EDITORS:
Dr. Andrea Berger-Seefried, Maria Hußlein, Hans Kiener, Rosalinde Pöhlmann
EDITORIAL OFFICE:
Karin Hartl
MAPS:
Thomas Müller, Arthur Reinelt, Annemarie Schmeller
PRINTER:
Graphick Atelier H, Ltd; Prague
COVER PHOTO:
Among the wild rock formations of the rocky hiking area the nature of the national park
shows off its grandiose variety of forms and colours (Photo: Günter Moser)
PICTURE PAGE 1:
When the snow melts hollows and pools fill for a while with water and become spawning grounds
for amphibians. (Photo: Bruno D`Amicis)
PRINTED ON:
Paper made from 100% recycled paper
DATE:
December 2010
© NPBW
ISBN-NR.:
978-3-930977-35-2
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The Bavarian Forest National Park is
A holder of the European Diploma (awarded 1986);
A certified transboundary park (awarded 2009);
The largest terrestrial Natura 2000 site in Germany;
A Member of EUROPARC Deutschland, the umbrella organisation
for Germany’s large protected areas “National Natural Landscapes”.
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