Biodiversity lexicon: B for biotope
The term biotope is quite complex on the golf course. It can be divided into a meaning from a nature conservation perspective, a legal topic and the rules of golf segment.
From a nature conservation perspective, a biotope is a habitat that offers specific animal and plant species optimal habitat conditions. Biotopes are of central importance for nature conservation as they contribute to the preservation of biodiversity. They provide refuges for endangered species, ensure ecological processes such as pollination and water purification and help to regulate the climate. Near-natural biotopes such as moors, floodplains, species-rich meadows or old forests are particularly valuable, as they are often home to highly specialized species.
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Biotopes are often protected by law in order to preserve their ecological function. In Germany, the Federal Nature Conservation Act (BNatSchG) regulates the protection of particularly valuable biotopes such as wetlands, heaths and dry grasslands. These areas are protected under Section 30 BNatSchG and may not be destroyed or significantly impaired. Golf course operators cannot make any structural changes here without consulting the authorities. In addition, there are European regulations such as the Habitats Directive (Fauna-Flora-Habitat Directive) and the Birds Directive, which ensure the preservation of protected areas. The “Natura 2000” network serves to protect endangered habitats in the EU. At state level, there are further protection regulations that are adapted to regional characteristics. Violations of biotope protection can have legal consequences.
In the Rules of Golf, biotopes are referred to as no-play zones or penalty areas (Rule 17). The golfer can recognize the biotope by a green “cap” or marker at the top of red or blue stakes. As a general rule, all areas marked with a green cap may not be entered. However, this also means that if a golf course marks an area as a biotope, this does not automatically mean that it is a legal biotope.
