Understanding
Seize opportunities
shaping the future
finding solutions
a region on the move
living innovation
observe
real-world laboratory
In the heart of the Ötscher region, we are researching climate change and working on solutions for alpine settlements – in an interdisciplinary, innovative manner and in dialogue with the region.
Climate research Ötscher-Tormäuer
Solutions for the Alpine settlement area
Together with Geosphere Austria (formerly the Central Institute for Meteorology and Geodynamics – ZAMG) and the University for Continuing Education Krems, the Ötscher-Tormäuer Nature Park has launched a pioneering project to research climate change and biodiversity. The idea for the project was born during the creation of the nature park concept from 2017 to 2019.
In an intensive citizen participation process, visions for the future of the region were developed. One result was the so-called Big 5 – five projects designed to enable targeted, sustainable development. One of these flagship projects is an Alpine research centre on climate change and biodiversity in the region around the Ötscher.
However, the tradition of research on the Ötscher goes back much further: as early as 1574, the court botanist Charles de l'Écluse (Clusius) climbed the Ötscher and documented the alpine flora for the first time – an early milestone of scientific curiosity that is continued today with the most modern methods.
Curiosity becomes research on the Ötscher - SINCE 1574.
Our fields of activity
1. Research & invention
Getting smarter together.
New perspectives, creative ideas and in-depth knowledge: We create space for scientific work, practical learning and unconventional thinking - for all age groups and specialisms.
Our fields of activity
2. Networking & exchanging
Knowledge grows through dialogue.
Instead of frontal lectures, we focus on real encounters: in hands-on projects, open forums and research collaborations between the public, experts and educational institutions.
Our fields of activity
3. Pilot project & trial
The Ötscher natural area as a centre of innovation.
Whether it's a farm, school garden or woodland - research, testing and improvements are carried out here. Our special labs bring climate issues directly into the everyday lives of farmers, schools and communities.
Our fields of activity
4. Impart knowledge
Making climate change understandable.
Through guided excursions, workshops and hands-on formats, we make complex topics tangible - and transform knowledge into action competence.
our focus areas
3. Pilot project & trial
The Ötscher Nature Park as a centre of innovation.
Whether on a farm, in a school garden or in a forest, research, testing and improvement are carried out here. Our specialised laboratories bring climate issues directly into the everyday life of agriculture, schools and communities.
Our map of activities
All activities at a glance: our interactive map shows current and completed projects, educational opportunities and network partners throughout the Ötscher region.
© weinfranz
Dates & Events
Where dialogue and experience come together
Fri, May 29Ötscher-Tormäuer Nature ParkExperience the Ötscher-Tormäuer Nature Park at night – guided hike & atmospheric campfire.
Fri, Jun 05Ötscher-Tormäuer Nature ParkImmerse yourself in a natural spectacle that only the early morning can offer.- Fri, Jun 12Ötscher-Tormäuer Nature ParkExperience the Ötscher-Tormäuer Nature Park at night – guided hike & atmospheric campfire.
Your nature experience awaits – discover it now!
Join now – help shape the future
Whether you are a farmer, researcher or interested citizen, we look forward to hearing from you! Climate research is open to participation: as a test farm, educational institution or active part of our research network.
Newsletter subscription
News from the Ötscher-Tormäuer Nature Park delivered straight to your inbox:
From exciting projects and current events to exclusive insights into the nature park.
Sign up and receive the Ötscher-Tormäuer Nature Park newsletter regularly and conveniently by email.
The team behind the Ötscher climate research project
Committed, connected, rooted in the region – we coordinate research, education and participation in the heart of the nature park. We are happy to assist you personally with any questions, ideas or collaborations you may have.
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Our offerings for science, practice and society
From specialised laboratories to educational courses – this is how we operate.
We offer research partnerships, educational formats, nature experience programmes, networking meetings and regional participatory projects for all interested parties.
The work of climate researcher Ötscher-Tormäuer reminds us that nature is not just a backdrop. It is the main character – and we have a say in whether it plays out as a tragedy or a story of hope for the future.
Manuel Rubey
Am Ötscher habe ich schon früh gespürt, wie sehr wir vom Klima abhängig sind. Die Forschung hier zeigt, dass unsere Berge nicht nur Sportarena, sondern auch sensible Lebensräume sind – und wir Verantwortung tragen.
Hermann Maier
Am Ötscher wird sichtbar, wie stark regionale Forschung unser globales Verständnis vertiefen kann. Wer hier die Veränderungen ernst nimmt, versteht auch, wie dringend wir handeln müssen.
Helga Kromp-Kolb
Our network of science, practice and region
Knowledge needs connection. Many renowned partner institutions support the Ötscher-Tormäuer climate research project. From farms to scientific institutions – together we are shaping the future.
