Hands-On Climate Action: Restore the Moor! (Mosbruch near Nürburgring)

CODE: DE-SCI 10.90

Description: In the heart of the Eifel lies a unique natural wonder: thousands of years ago, moors formed in the craters of some extinct volcanoes, creating special habitats between water and land. One such moor is the Mosbrucher Weiher. It captivates with its extraordinary, almost perfectly circular shape and the massive peat layers that have built up over millennia. In the past, ditches were dug through the moor to drain the water, dry out the land, and enable peat extraction. Some of these ditches are still active today. When a moor dries out, rare species disappear, and the peat starts releasing large amounts of CO₂. We aim to reverse this process by closing ditches and restoring the water level, helping to protect biodiversity and combat climate change.

Type of Work: During the project weeks, ditches are sealed. To achieve this, materials are transported into the area using wheelbarrows over wooden planks, boards are hammered and screwed into the ground, and sacks filled with sawdust and wood chips are used—or the material is directly compacted into the ditches to seal them. Teamwork is essential in this process. Additionally, shrubs and young trees such as birch, spruce, and willow are cut down and removed from the moor. The work is hands-on, wet, and muddy, but at the same time, great care is needed to avoid damaging the fragile moor vegetation. To protect the moor, volunteers move exclusively on wooden walkways, which they build themselves.

Study Theme: The study part provides insights into moorland ecosystems, their role in climate protection, and human impact. Through expert-led workshops, lectures, and field studies, you’ll learn how moors store carbon, regulate water, and support biodiversity.

Excursions to the Geopark Eifel offer hands-on learning in geology, history, and environmental science. You’ll explore volcanic landscapes, analyze soil and water, and discover traces of Celts and Romans. Museum visits and guided hikes deepen your understanding of the region’s natural and cultural heritage.

Accommodation: The accommodation is in a comfortable holiday home with a total of 20 beds, including nine bunk beds (in shared rooms). There are several group rooms, a winter garden with table tennis, a kitchen with a dishwasher, and sufficient sanitary facilities within the house.

Outdoor facilities: A large garden with two terraces (one covered), a garden shower, and a fire pit. Two grills are available. The house is self-catering, and meals are prepared together as a group. The camp is located near the legendary racetrack Nürburgring.

Language: English (and German skills beneficial)

Requirements: Enjoyment of nature and outdoor work – in both sunshine and rain. Rubber boots and weatherproof clothing that can get dirty, sure-footedness..

Approximate Location: The wetland restoration project will take place at the "Mosbrucher Weiher", an extinct volcanic maar located in the Eifel region in the federal state Rheinland-Pfalz/Germany. The accommodation is located in a village close to the moor called Ueß. Both locations are near the famous racetrack Nürburgring.

Notes: The camp takes place in a more natural and rural area of Germany, so camp car(s) will be necessary/arranged. If you want to arrive in your private car, please let us know in advance so that we can plan accordingly.

.