CH-SCI 10.6 Chestnut forest preservation in Misox (Soazza GR)

Description: The aim of Fondazione Mont Grand is to enhance the landscape of the mountain pasture of Mont Grand near Soazza, where groups of houses are scattered here and there. The foundation takes care of the characteristic sparse chestnut woods, maintains the historic buildings, provides knowledge about biodiversity and cultural history through educational activities and is committed to sustainable tourism. The chestnut forests represent a traditional form of land use that was widespread until after the Second World War and has since been largely abandoned.

Type of Work: The volunteers take care of the chestnut forests. The work mainly involves grass cutting and haymaking between the trees. Under certain circumstances, it may also be possible to carry out other landscape conservation work, such as clearing the bushes, collecting stones, etc. Be aware that the work is physically demanding!

Study Theme: On the one hand the volunteers will get to know all the projects of the Fondazione directly on site during a half-day excursion. On the other hand the volunteers will receive information on botany, biodiversity, history and cultural landscape management during their work.

Accommodation: The volunteers will be accommodated in a building. Mattresses are available. Sleeping bags must be brought by the volunteers themselves. There are sufficient toilets and also showers with hot water. There is no washing machine available. And there is no internet access except through mobile phones (providers Swisscom & Sunrise) – be aware that in Switzerland there are high roaming costs. The volunteers will prepare their own food. Whether they also will shop themselves or give the project partner a shopping list is yet to be determined.

Language: The workcamp language is English, the local language is Italian.

Requirements: The volunteers must bring sturdy mountain boots, clothes for working, raingear (a waterproof jacket etc.), as well as clothing suitable for sunny weather. There are a lot of ticks in the area, so it is advisable to bring working gloves, tweezers, and/or tick repellents.