The management of protected areas has recently emerged as a new scientific discipline. To date, there is a lack of systematic and theoretical background. This study explored this vast field by combining different disciplines in an inter-and transdisciplinary approach. Taking two existing Austrian biosphere reserves (Großes Walsertal BR, Wienerwald BR) and one national park (Nockberge NP, BR planned) as typical examples, we analysed basic management principles in terms of intervention, participation, regional governance and change management. The broad base and special methodological approach showed the complexity of planning and managing a biosphere reserve. How local stakeholders perceive the process of development very often differs from what the planning regime was meant to do. The overwhelming importance of regional history, the power of established structures and social components (trust, enthusiasm etc.) can turn planning intentions into an unpredictable direction. Only a precise and focused strategic mix of process components can ensure a successful process. What constitutes an effective mix differs from region to region and must be defined individually. It also became clear that different phases of BR development need specific management approaches as intervention takes place in a typical order. Once again, proper participation proved crucial for the success of a BR. 29R e search eco.m o n t -Vo l u m e 3 , N u m b e r 1 , J u n e 2 0 1 1 ISSN 2 0 7 3 -1 0 6 X p r i n t v e r s i o n ISSN 2 0 7 3 -1 5 5 8 o n l i n e v e r s i o n : h t t p : / / e p u b . o e a w. a c . a t / e c o . m o n t

Biosphere reserves (BRs) as recognized model regions for sustainable development are supposed to maintain permanent access to scientific findings, innovation, new technologies and scholarly discussions.

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for the Conservation of Nature, weltweites Umweltnetzwerk bestehend aus Regierungs-und Nichtregierungsorgnisationen MAB Man and the Biosphere, Programm "Der Mensch und die Biosphäre" der UNESCO, in dessen Rahmen Biosphärenparke ausgewiesen werden NRO Nicht-Regierungsorganisationen (z.B. Umweltverbände) REGIO Regionalplanungsgemeinschaft Großes Walsertal, bestehend aus den sechs Gemeinden im Tal UNESCO United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization WWF World Wide Fund for Nature, weltweit tätiger Umweltverband V O R W O R T 9 2_4 References Literature and materials ARGE WIENERWALD (2002): Machbarkeitsstudie Wienerwald-Eignung des Wienerwaldes für einen Nationalpark oder Biosphärenpark, Wien: unveröffentlichtes Manuskript.

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