 On a smaller scale, several nature reserves are designated.In addition are the protected habitats of 6029-371 "Buchenwälder und Wiesentäler des Nordsteigerwalds" und 6327-371 "Vorderer Steigerwald mit Schwanberg" as well as the European Special Protection Areas 6029-471 "Oberer Steigerwald" und 6327-471 "Südlicher Steigerwald".Within the various counties whose territories include the Steigerwald, discussions have taken place about taking parts of the forest out of use and classifying them as protected areas.