Revierpark Gysenbergpark

We live in a time when not only awareness of environmental issues has increased, but also our understanding of the importance of local ecosystems such as forests, biodiverse grasslands, and natural water bodies. The main objective of the "Revierparks 2020" project was the active revitalisation and ecological remediation of the existing park areas. By afforestation and renaturation, it is possible to protect native plant and animal species and create optimal habitats for them. Therefore, we actively exploit existing potentials to protect regional biodiversity (including the various life forms and habitats, as well as the genetic diversity within species) and to strengthen it with regard to climate changes.

One of the core topics of our project was the depaving of unused spaces and the re-transformation of these areas to natural growth habitats. The immense vegetation areas that have been adapted to current and future climate changes are impressive.

Across all five parks, an impressive total of 22,140 square meters have been reclaimed and now serve as new habitats for animals and plants.

This not only has a positive effect on the park's climate but also on the surrounding neighbourhoods.

In the “Revierpark Gysenberg” alone, approximately 7,500 square meters have been returned to nature through the removal of unused paths, paved surfaces, and walls. The creation of ecologically valuable small biotopes, the seeding of species-rich flower meadows, and the planting of natural hedges and forest edges are further tangible measures that have been implemented on a significant scale in the five Revierparks.

In the Revierpark Gysenberg alone, 97 trees were planted, some of which form an orchard serving as a habitat and food source for insects and birds. Solitary shrubs were suitable for individual placement, and a total of 48 of them were planted in selected points from a perspective of nature and species conservation. Additionally, approximately 3,200 square meters of insect-friendly perennial areas were established, along with around 130,000 bulb and tuber plants that provide a solid food source with their abundant blossoms for a variety of insect species. The approximately 30,750 square meters of flowering meadows in the Revierpark Gysenberg also offer long-term nourishment, nesting material, and more for local birds and insects.

Do you know what a brushwood hedge is? Brushwood hedges, in German called “Benjeshecken”, provide shelter and food for birds and other animals. With their droppings and food reserves, they accelerate the spread of woody plants through seed dispersal. A similar process occurs with the colonisation of plants at forest edges.

Pure nature, indeed. That's why we have planted approximately 2,100 square meters of brushwood hedges in the Revierpark Gysenberg.

Also in the “Revierpark Gysenberg”, extensive rainwater retention systems, including basins and infiltration trenches, were created to ensure a sustainable distribution of rainwater. This is a further step towards achieving the mentioned aims.

However, what good are the best concepts for the preservation and promotion of biodiversity without a concomitant understanding among park visitors? For this reason, recreational activities have been created that are not only in line with the aims of ecological enhancement but also raise awareness among visitors for a mindful and appreciative interaction with nature. Nature Trails that focus on the specific themes of the parks and the resident wildlife and plant species, as well as numerous opportunities for experiencing nature, open the door for park guests to develop a greater awareness of our native flora and fauna. Gysenberg’s Nature Trail offers the visitor insights into the life and habitat of our native butterflies.