Potsdam is revising its natural monument regulations – citizens are in demand!

Potsdam is revising its natural monument regulations – citizens are in demand!

Potsdam gives new impetus to natural monuments

Something is happening in Potsdam - and it's not just of interest to nature lovers. The city is planning a major overhaul of the Natural Monuments Ordinance, which has been in effect since 2005. This applies in particular to the protection and new designation of natural monuments in the region. The Lower Nature Conservation Authority has called on the population to submit their ideas and suggestions for selecting new natural monuments. Respect! Over 120 proposals were received and reviewed.

Among these proposals, 66 existing and new objects made it into the draft of the new Natural Monuments Ordinance. These objects should be placed under protection in accordance with Section 28 of the Federal Nature Conservation Act. But what makes these natural monuments so special? In particular, exceptional individual creations, rare trees, impressive rows of trees and striking boulders are protected. The worthy protection of these monuments is based on scientific, natural history or national cultural reasons as well as their rarity, uniqueness and beauty. These aspects are also included in the definition basis natur.sachsen.de can be found are crucial for the preservation of these unique natural wonders.

Take your time to view it!

The draft of the new regulation can be viewed from June 23 to July 23, 2025. Interested citizens can view the draft not only online, but also directly on site. The Potsdam city administration is available for this purpose in Department 45 Climate, Environment and Green Spaces, located at Hegelallee 6-10, House 1, 7th floor, Room 704, 14467 Potsdam. Office hours are Monday to Thursday between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. If you would like a personal appointment, you can register by calling 0331-289 2609. Concerns or suggestions can be expressed during this period, also by email to Umwelt-natur@rathaus.potsdam.de or by post to the state capital of Potsdam, Environment and Nature Department, Friedrich-Ebert Straße 79/81, 14469 Potsdam.

National importance and need for protection

But what are the actual criteria for protecting natural monuments? These are legally defined and require that they are important for scientific, natural history or regional reasons. A look beyond national borders shows that the “National Natural Monuments” category, which was created in 2010, expands these protection criteria. Loud bfn.de These are areas of outstanding importance that can include not only natural phenomena but also cultural values. While natural monuments are concrete individual objects, the status of a national natural monument offers a large area, which entails its own need for protection and management requirements.

Who is in charge?

An intense interest in the new natural monuments is to be expected. Especially since the area is not only intended to serve as a recreational area, but is also under pressure from visitor interest. It is therefore recommended that management plans be drawn up that regulate the maintenance, development and use of these areas. A well-thought-out zoning system could meet nature and landscape protection as well as the needs of visitors.

Conclusion: With its initiative to revise the Natural Monuments Ordinance, the city of Potsdam proves that it has a good hand for nature conservation. With public participation and a focus on science-based decisions, not only is nature protected, but also the culture and history of the region is preserved. Take advantage of the opportunity and get involved – for nature, for the city and, above all, for future generations.