Partner companies on an excursion
in the Hintergebirge mountains

The Kalkalpen National Park recently invited regional cooperation partners to an excursion to the Reichraminger Hintergebirge mountains to present current nature conservation projects relating to spring and stream protection. The participants gained valuable insights into the importance of karst springs and natural mountain streams for regional biodiversity.

"Springs are the beginning of all streams and rivers. All springs are protected in the national park," emphasized Elmar Pröll from the national park administration at the start of the hike. The spring ecosystem and its ecological significance were then clearly explained, as was the importance of these habitats for the region.

Another focus of the excursion was information on combating invasive fish species. Since the establishment of the national park, alien species such as the rainbow trout have been removed by electrofishing. "The populations of native fish species can develop undisturbed again," explained project manager Christian Pichler-Schedar from the national park administration. "Our measures are having an effect: native fish stocks are recovering, while invasive species are hardly detectable anymore." For example, no more North American fish species were detected during the recent catches - a clear success of the conservation measures.

The regular partner excursions are a central component of the cooperation between the national park administration and the regional partners. National Park Director Josef Forstinger emphasized the importance of these partnerships: "Our excursions are an important exchange between the administration and the region. They showcase the work of the national park on site and jointly raise awareness of the value of our unique natural environment." The events not only promote professional exchange, but also make the work of the national park directly tangible for everyone involved.