Danube Floodplain National Park: Precious Nature for Generations

The Danube Floodplain National Park (NP Donau-Auen) between Vienna and Bratislava protects one of the last major river floodplains of Central Europe still unspoilt by building.  The dynamism of the flowing river is still active here: The rising and sinking water levels determine the rhythm of life in the floodplain.

The river and its floods shape the landscape and feed a great variety of fauna and flora. Kingfisher, white-tailed eagle, beaver, European pond turtle, numerous insect species and more than 60 fish species find a refuge here. Among the botanical treasures there are black poplars, various orchid species, and European wild vine populations (Vitis vinifera Spp. sylvestris) from which all cultivated grapevines have derived.
 
The visitors shall have a chance to experience the beauty of the Danube Floodplain.  There is a choice variety of activities led by national park staff for adults and children on foot, by boat, in horse-carriages, and by bike.  All seasons have their special attractions and tell their own stories.
 
School classes are offered programmes that last several days and help create an understanding of nature.  Of course, there is always enough room for playing and having fun!  The schlossORTH national park centre has been open for visitors since 4 June 2005.  For the cold season, the national park offers indoor alternatives such as workshops, talks and projects.
 
In the Danube Floodplain National Park nature can develop free from any economic constraints in order to make sure that future generations will also be able to really feel the power and the beauty of the “Green Wilderness on the River”.
 
Links: www.donauauen.at
 

08.05.2006, Lebensministerium Öffentlichkeitsarbeit