Black Forest Pastures - Lörrach

CODE: IBG 17

WORK: Together with local farmers you maintain paths and pastures on the alp. As ameasure against scrub encroachment on the pastures small conifers must be removed with hand saws. To preserve the special biodiversity, you take care of some invasive species, especially lupins and broom. Conservation experts will introduce you to the essentials of nature conservation tasks. Please be prepared for mountain life and bring good hiking boots and weatherproof clothing. The ceremonial cattle drive down from the mountain pastures is expected to take place on Oct 17 and will be a perfect completion of your stay – a very special moment.
ACCOMMODATION: You stay in the local ski club cottage on 930m surrounded by nature, breathtaking views, and hiking paths. There are 10 bunk beds in four separate bedrooms, a kitchen, a dining room, two toilets, one shower, and washrooms. Please bring a warm sleeping bag. The cottage is beautifully situated at the end of the valley and 3km from the mountain village of Neuenweg. The entire group does grocery shopping, cooking, and cleaning together. Food will be bought with the camp budget. To minimize our carbon footprint on the planet, we encourage volunteers to reduce meat and try more environmentally friendly meals.

LOCATION: If you feel attracted to the Black Forest with its famous historic mountain farmsteads, forests, high moors, and unique light – this is the place for you! The nature reserve on the southern slope of the Belchen (1414m) is characterized by its unique alpine flora and fauna. At the same time, shared summer cattle grazing is a special cultural asset and represents sustainable agriculture in a unique form.

TRAVEL INFORMATION: Please check www.bahn.com for a connection from anywhere to “Zell im Wiesental”. Most likely you will have to travel via Basel. There will be one train per hour. From Zell you can either use a so-called bus-on-demand to reach the accommodation (more information in the upcoming Infosheet) or be picked up at 7:30pm by your camp leaders. The distance from Zell to your accommodation is 25km.
NEXT TRAIN STATION: Zell im Wiesental (D-79669)
NEXT BUS STOP: Neuenweg Haldenhof (Kleines Wiesental)
NEXT INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT: Basel (BSL)
FURTHER INFO: Please be aware that ticks can be an issue after spending a lot of time outdoors. In our General Info Sheet you will find suggestions on how you can protect yourself against them. Consider to check whether a vaccination against the tick-borne disease TBE makes sense and is possible in your home country. This camp supports the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development by the United Nations and highlights our contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals defined for Quality Education (4), Sustainable Cities and Communities (11), and Life on Land (15).