History

Long-standing processes and successful efforts

The Lower Austrian Eisenwurzen Nature Park in Hollenstein an der Ybbs was designated a
landscape conservation area in 1979 and awarded the title
of “Nature Park” in 1980.

After a lengthy hiatus, Mr Willibald Bissenberger (municipal archivist) and Mag. Dungler drew up a concept for the nature park, enabling the inaugural meeting to take place during the “Dreiklangfest” on 27 April 2001.

Initial detailed surveys of the flora and fauna in 2001 sparked curiosity and raised awareness of the many valuable and precious natural treasures in the area. This awareness is becoming increasingly important among the residents and the municipality of Hollenstein an der Ybbs.

Nature Park Award

The designation of a rural region as a "nature park" is granted by the relevant regional government and presents the region with the following challenges:
- Protection and further development of the landscape
- Creation of recreational opportunities
- Providing ecological and cultural education
- Promotion of sustainable regional development through the creation of jobs and opportunities for supplementary income in tourism and agriculture

Willibald Bissenberger

He continues to support the nature reserve with advice and practical help – a heartfelt thank you for your support. In 2025, he was honoured by the local council as a ‘village hero’ as part of the village and town regeneration scheme.

Christina Forsthuber

Christina Forsthuber provided the key impetus for the development of clear strategies and the implementation of shared goals.

In recent years, thanks to the great dedication of many active team members and their inspiring knowledge-sharing, as well as close collaboration between a wide range of specialist departments, well-founded and forward-looking concepts have been developed – supported by the municipality of Hollenstein and its mayor, Manuela Zebenholzer.