Client: Municipality of Markgrafneusiedl

Project Duration: 2023

Project Description: As part of the “Windmühl-Park” residential expansion in Markgrafneusiedl, agricultural land is being converted into residential areas, parks, and transport infrastructure. The adjacent Natura 2000 sites “Sandboden und Praterterrasse” require special protection of valuable habitats and species. TB Raab GmbH provides ecological consulting for the project, assessing potential impacts on flora, fauna, and protected assets through field surveys, long-term data analysis, and reference to the site management plan. The core of the ecological concept is the preservation and creation of habitats — for example, through the establishment of shrub hedges, ruderal areas, and piles of deadwood and stones. Invasive neophytes are removed and replaced with native woody plants. Rare plant species such as the endangered Rock Stonecrop (Sedum rupestre) and the Burnet Rose (Rosa spinosissima) receive special protection. For the park area, extensive maintenance is recommended, including mosaic mowing or grazing, to promote species-rich flowering meadows. Additional measures such as nesting boxes and information boards further enhance biodiversity and public awareness. The concept ensures that the rezoning is ecologically sound, that the conservation objectives of the Natura 2000 sites are maintained, and that new near-natural habitats are created. In this way, the project meaningfully combines residential development with nature conservation.