Gentle Management

Within the framework of the LIFE-Nature Project, extensive management measures are being implemented in a total of 11 areas. The measures are being implemented in the framework of a multi-year management programme and should contribute to the long-term preservation of these xerothermic habitats' characteristic animal and plant life. Key measures include the removal of woods and undergrowth in the Steppe and Dry Grassland areas, the clearing of small areas, as well as livestock grazing and the cutting of grass. The rough and steep terrain makes this an enormous effort. Surveys, which are conducted parallel to the management measures, help optimise the measures.

Initial measures designed to promote preservation and reduce future care are those preferentially funded by the LIFE-Nature Project. Farmers and landscape conservationists from the region carry out maintenance beyond the LIFE-Nature Project within the framework of the nature protection contract and are supported by specific promotion programmes (e.g. ÖPUL).

Areas of Main Focus:
Nature Reserve Zeiserlberg (1)
Natural Monument Fehhaube-Kogelsteine (2)
Nature Reserve Mühlberg (3)
Nature Reserve Eichkogel (4)
Nature Reserve Glaslauterriegel-Heferlberg und Fuchsberg (5)
Nature Reserve Hundsheimer Berg (6)
Nature Reserve Braunsberg (7)
Schlossberg/Hainburg (8)
Nature Reserve Spitzerberg (9)
Königswarte-Hindlerberg/Berg (10)
Nature Reserve Goldberg (11)

Nature Preservation on a European Level

Nature preservation on a European level is regulated chiefly by the Birds and Habitats Directives. The Natura 2000 Nature Reserve Network forms a central component.

Natura 2000 is a European network of more than ten thousand nature reserves that should be preserved for future generations owing to their special animal and plant species as well as their habitats worthy of protection. This network is set up by all EU member states according to a uniform regulatory framework. All member states have committed to taking steps to avoid the deterioration of Natura 2000 areas.

Within the framework of the LIFE-Nature programme, measures are supported which serve to preserve or re-establish natural habitats for animals and plants. This support should contribute to the improved application of the EU Habitats Directive and to promoting the development and growth of the European Nature Reserve Network Natura 2000.