Beneficial organisms for the organic apple orchard
Environment
| Project | Beneficial organisms for the organic apple orchard |
| Participant(s) | Min. 8 / Max. 30 |
| Project language | German, English |
Assignment options
| City | Klosterfahr 8109 Unterengstringen |
| Date | Possible from 30.09.2025 |
| Duration of assignment | Lasts one day |
| Time | 09:00 – 16:00 |
In the Zurich area, Andreas Benz from Fahr-Erlebnis is working on converting his apple orchard from conventional to organic farming. Here we are implementing targeted measures to strengthen both the flora and fauna of the orchard and increase biodiversity.
An exciting and complex project!
A wild hedge is being planted on the northern edge of the plantation, which provides food for pollinators such as wild bees as well as promoting habitat connectivity for small mammals such as weasels. We are also building two weasel castles made of stone and wood, which provide valuable habitats for these small predators. A natural fence planted with hops and ivy, as well as piles of branches and stones, create further habitats and promote connectivity for small mammals.
Duration:
- One-day assignment
- Assignment time from around 9:00 a.m. to around 4:00 p.m.
Location:
Klosterfahr, 8109 Unterengstringen (ZH)
How it will work:
- The day begins with a welcome at the assignment location.
- After a short round of introductions, the leader gives an overview of the program and explains why the planned conservation work is important for the habitat and how it benefits the farming community.
- Participants then learn the basics of the individual work steps and how to use the tools safely. Under expert guidance, techniques are demonstrated and practiced so that the work can be carried out efficiently and with due care and attention.
- Then it is off to the work area, where everyone puts what they have learned into practice.
- The day ends with a short feedback session where volunteers can share their impressions and experiences.
Introduction:
The introduction is carried out by conservation professionals directly on site.
Support:
- You will be accompanied by experienced conservation professionals who – with their expertise, enthusiasm, and keen eye for nature and biodiversity – will ensure that your work is meaningful and effective. They will show you what is important, explain the ecological context and give you practical tips so that you can quickly find your bearings and have fun tackling the work.
- Whether you need help with handling tools, working techniques, recognizing plants and animals or protecting sensitive habitats, our experts will assist you throughout your assignment, providing individual support and answering any questions you may have.
Tasks:
- Depending on the assignment, you will build weasel castles or other small structures, create new areas for wild bees or combat problem plants.
What you’ll need:
- No special prior knowledge is required.
- Above all, it is important that you enjoy being active in nature, are open to new things and are willing to take part in practical work.
- Since we will be on our feet all day, you should have a certain basic level of fitness for physical activities.
The Nature Network is a charitable organization and one of the largest community service organizations in Switzerland. For many years, we have dedicated ourselves with passion and expertise to the protection and conservation of nature. Arbeitseinsatz.ch is a division of the Nature Network that organizes volunteer efforts in nature conservation. Our years of experience enable us to create safe, well-structured and effective assignments, where volunteers actively help to preserve and improve habitats for rare plants and animals.