Within the Stuttgart region and in other parts of Baden-Württemberg, it can be seen that more and more steep slopes (≥ 27° gradient) are falling out of use. The subsequent use as garden land is often equally affected by the abandonment of use. This results in increasingly overgrown sites and the resulting loss of open land biotopes. Due to the lack of cultivation, steep slopes are also losing their importance as recreational areas and excursion destinations.

If the previous cultivation of steep slopes in the form of viticulture is no longer practicable, it makes sense to support the development and maintenance of high-quality, species-rich open land biotopes in this area. Several positive effects can be achieved with the help of (early) compensation measures. In addition to the creation of valuable open land biotopes, the link to local recreational and environmental education opportunities can also be beneficial.

Another opportunity for steep slopes is the instrument of land consolidation. Connected areas can be developed from individual sub-areas, which may become attractive for grazing.