Waldviertel fish harvest festival sparks research launch and animal welfare controversy

The Waldviertler Abfischfest at Bruneiteich in Heidenreichstein served as a platform to introduce Danubeaqua, a new EU research project designed to integrate modern technology with traditional carp pond management. During the event, visitors observed the manual harvesting process, where pond water is drained and fish are caught using nets.

While organizers and the Lower Austria Chamber of Agriculture praised the importance of pond farmers, the Verein gegen Tierfabriken (VGT) announced intentions to file a complaint regarding suspected animal cruelty. VGT campaign leader Erich Schacherl criticized the event, alleging that the harvesting process causes massive stress, fear of death, risk of injury, and life-threatening exposure to air for the fish. The organization further claimed the event undermines empathy for animals in children.

Separate protests were also noted during fish harvesting in Sitzenberg-Reidling, where an individual dressed as a grim reaper appeared to protest the practice.