looduspargid

Looduspargid are a category of protected areas in Estonia established to preserve representative natural landscapes and ecosystems while allowing sustainable use and recreational use. They are designed to protect ecological value, cultural heritage, and scenic quality, often spanning large areas that include multiple habitat types, such as forests, wetlands, and coastal landscapes.

Legal basis and management for looduspargid come from Estonian nature conservation legislation. They are managed by national or local authorities, such as the Environment Agency (Keskkonnaamet) or municipal administrations, which prepare management plans and regulate activities within different zones. The level of protection in looduspargid is typically less restrictive than in stricter reserves, aiming to balance conservation with sustainable use, tourism, and education.

Protection and activities: inside a looduspark, there are restrictions designed to safeguard biodiversity and landscape integrity. Prohibited or limited activities may include unregulated construction, certain types of logging, or motorized use outside designated areas. Permitted activities usually include hiking, birdwatching, and other nature-based recreation, along with education and traditional land-use practices when they do not harm ecological values.

Relation to broader networks: looduspargid form part of Estonia’s protected areas network and may intersect with other conservation designations and the EU Natura 2000 network. They contribute to biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, and public enjoyment, while supporting regional development and environmental awareness.

See also: protected areas in Estonia, Natura 2000, nature conservation act.