Paid natural attractions can now also be visited for free...

Paid natural attractions can now also be visited for free.

As of today, the amendment to the Nature Conservation Act has come into force, bringing several changes in the management of natural assets, intervention measures in the case of direct threat to people due to large carnivores, and prevention of unauthorized driving in nature.

Among the key changes brought by the amendment is the establishment of a clear protocol for intervention in the event of direct threat from large carnivores. After reporting to number 112, the response of hunting ground managers will be triggered, and the ministry will decide on possible culling of the animal. Intervention will also be possible on non-hunting areas, with coverage of costs and insurance for implementers provided.

The amendment also provides a legal basis for stricter supervision of cycling and motorized vehicle driving in nature. Among other things, it introduces the possibility of vehicle seizure on the first repetition of the offense and fines of up to two thousand euros for individuals and up to 75 thousand euros for legal entities.

Visiting and viewing of natural assets free of charge
In accordance with the amendment, visiting and viewing natural assets is principally free. Exceptions are cases where without regulation, visiting and viewing the natural asset is not possible, not safe, or would cause significant negative impact on the natural asset. The amendment also specifies who may charge visitors, how the payment amount is determined, and for which public purposes the collected funds may be used. For paid natural assets, free visits are introduced every first Sunday of the month or during operating hours, enabling all citizens to visit natural assets regardless of their social status.

In the area of removing administrative barriers, the amendment, in line with the amended construction-spatial legislation, introduces a 30-day deadline for issuing opinions, and nature conservation consent will no longer be required for minor reconstructions. The amendment also brings measures to prevent introductions and spread of invasive alien species and a protocol for their early detection and rapid removal.

Source: https://siol.net/novice/slovenija/v-veljavi-novela-zakona-o-ohranjanju-narave-679753