Eyes of the Landscape – Schlatt Program

The Schlatt Program of the Nature Conservation Foundation in the Diepholz district specifically promotes measures for the revitalization of typical geest water bodies as a continuously open grant offering. The focus is on the restoration of filled-in slatts, the creation of new groundwater-fed small water bodies, as well as supplementary species protection measures for the long-term preservation of rare amphibian and plant species. At the same time, the program supports the restoration of historical slatt sites and their professional maintenance over an extended period. By concentrating on ecology, sustainability, and climate protection, the funding instrument makes an important contribution to strengthening water quality and increasing biodiversity in Lower Saxony. Evaluation is based on ecological benefits, the securing of long-term maintenance strategies, and relevance to species protection.

Eligible for funding are private owners, non-profit nature conservation organizations, and public institutions in the Diepholz district that aim to protect slatts as valuable habitats. A prerequisite for a grant is proof of the project location within the district as well as a nature conservation-related objective for slatt water bodies. Application documents include a detailed project description, a site plan with the slatt location, and a cost and financing plan. Eligible expenses include costs for water body restoration, creation of small water bodies, specific species protection measures, and long-term management. Thanks to the uncomplicated submission process without fixed deadlines, applicants can request funding at any time and thus actively contribute to the preservation and further development of these unique landscape elements.