Report Protective measures for the whiteback woodpecker - Preparatory work in the pilot region of Econnect

A primary goal of this subproject was the development and description of a common path of the large landowners (Österreichische Bundesforste AG, Steiermärkischen Landesforste, agriculture and forestry company of the city of Vienna) in the pilot region and the framework conditions for a living network to clarify the whiteback woodpecker. Based on this, concrete implementation measures can subsequently be taken on the site. As the largest landowner in the pilot region, protection measures at the Austrian Federal Forests (ÖBf) are an important lever for an implementation project with the aim of networking habitats. For this reason, special emphasis was placed on the involvement of the employees. You should understand the considerations and background of the project and take recommendations for the protection of the whiteback woodpecker into everyday forest life. On the basis of the modelled probability of contact (KAMMERER 2011), randomly selected areas were to be examined ornithologically and for forestry purposes. On the one hand, this allows the model of the probability of hitting the target to be checked and subsequently improved. Furthermore, the most efficient measures can be developed through on-site discussions on forestry and ornithological issues together with experts from both disciplines. Subsequently, forest assessments should be carried out for these areas in the sense of a compensation payment. Areas of the ÖBf, which potentially qualify as biodiversity islands, are to be mapped. An essential point in nature conservation activities is generally the preparation of the relevant information for other stakeholders in the region. In the context of this sub-project, information material was also developed in a specific case as a folder - for potential partners in the region. In personal discussions with representatives of the Steiermärkische Landesforste and the agriculture and forestry company of the City of Vienna (MA 49), the motivation of the subproject and the possibilities for participation in a protection initiative of these two companies were developed.