Establishment of a park of national importance

Before a region can make an application for the label “park of national importance” it must satisfy various requirements. The two most important are:

• The region must have a high natural and scenic value.
• The population and the local authorities support the idea of creating a park.

First step: Feasibility

Everything starts with an assessment of the feasibility of an idea for a park. Amongst other things the questions are posed whether the region satisfies the natural landscape and scenic qualities for a park, what category is aimed for and whether the local authorities and the population see future prospects in a park for their region. The assessment is produced in the form of a feasibility study.

Second Step: Project Planning

If the feasibility has been demonstrated, a provisional sponsorship can be formed. The local communities are significantly involved in the sponsorship. In the project planning the participation of the community is ensured. The initial activities and projects can be implemented. The preparation of a management plan is decisive for the establishment of a park.

«Candidate» Label

A park project can apply to the federal government via the canton to establish a park. The most important documentation for this is the management plan and the application for global financial assistance.  If all prerequisites are satisfied the park project receives the label “Candidate” from the federal government and financial support for the establishment phase.