Environmental volunteering: helping secure forests for the future

Name: Environmental volunteering: helping secure forests for the future
Location: Andermatt or Hospental (UR)

Andermatt or Hospental (UR)

Seasonal

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Environment

The Wald & Klima Association is committed to reforestation and the long-term preservation of protective forests in the Ursern Valley (canton of Uri). By planting trees suited to the local environment, the association helps protect against natural hazards and supports a mountain forest that can withstand future climate conditions. To help young trees take root and thrive, they need regular care during their first few years. And this is where you come in.

During the volunteering assignment, you’ll help tend to areas that have already been planted. You’ll cut back grass, ferns and other vegetation around the young trees to ensure they have enough light and space to grow. No prior experience is needed. After a brief introduction, you can start helping right away. Every assignment helps small saplings grow into a healthy forest that protects future generations.

Look forward to an active half day in nature, fascinating insights into forest care and conservation, and the chance to meet interesting people. Alongside the hands-on work, you’ll also enjoy fresh air, exercise and a shared experience outdoors.

Duration:

Half-day activity lasting 4 hours on a
- Saturday afternoon from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Sunday morning from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Possible volunteer dates:
- Saturdays: 22 August, 29 August, 19 September, 26 September, 3 October 2026
– Sundays: 23 August, 30 August, 6 September 2026

Location:

Depending on the date, the activity will take place:

in Andermatt
Meeting point: Meyer’s Sporthaus car park, Andermatt
in Hospental & Winterhorn
Meeting point: Hospental train station

How it will work:

After a short welcome, participants will take a 20- to 30-minute walk to the work sites in the Ursern Valley. The route begins on hiking trails before continuing across easily accessible terrain.

On arrival, you’ll receive a short introduction to forest maintenance and the safe use of the tools.

You’ll then join fellow volunteers in caring for the young trees by cutting back grass, ferns and other vegetation. This gives the trees the light and space they need to thrive.

After the assignment, you’ll walk back to the starting point together.

Introduction:

The assignment will be led by experienced forestry professionals.

You’ll receive all the information you need about the day’s program, your tasks, safety procedures and how to use the tools and materials on site.

Support:

Throughout the volunteering activity, you’ll be supported by experienced specialists. They’ll give you a deeper understanding of the forest habitat and are always on hand to answer questions. They’ll explain why the project matters and outline the next steps, so you’ll be well prepared to make a meaningful contribution as a volunteer.

Tasks:

Remove grass and ferns around young trees
Actively support forest care and promote biodiversity
Work outdoors in nature with other volunteers
Make a lasting contribution to nature and climate protection

What you’ll need:

An interest in volunteering and conservation projects
You enjoy working outdoors
Basic physical fitness for outdoor activity
Sure-footedness on easy nature trails and uneven terrain
Weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear
Motivation to pitch in actively as part of a team
No prior experience required
Terms of use:
Hiking poles may be helpful for the walk to the work areas.

Project language

German, English

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Our project partner:

Wald und Klima

Der Verein bezweckt die nachhaltige Entwicklung des Waldes im Urserntal durch die Unterstützung von Aufforstungsprojekten, Waldpflege und die Eindämmung der Verbuschung als Beitrag zu einer CO₂-neutralen Gesellschaft. Zur Sensibilisierung und Bildung in den Bereichen Wald und Klima führt er zudem Informationsveranstaltungen, Vorträge, Studien-, Informations- und Aktionstage sowie -wochen, Pflanzaktionen, Pflegetage und ähnliche Anlässe mit interessierten Unternehmen, Schulen und Privatpersonen durch. Der Verein vermarktet seine Tätigkeiten und kann sich auch am Handel mit CO₂-Zertifikaten beteiligen.

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