Volunteering in Parc Ela: Tackling invasive plants together
Bergün Filisur / GR
19.06.2026
Environment
Make a real impact in protecting our natural environment – right where your efforts matter most: Invasive plant species are spreading rapidly, displacing native flora and threatening valuable habitats and biodiversity. By volunteering in Parc Ela, the largest nature park in Switzerland, you make a direct contribution to preserving this unique landscape.
Together with local experts, you will work along the Landwasser and Albula rivers – close to the impressive Landwasser Viaduct. Thanks to consistent efforts like this, the further spread of invasive plants has already been successfully contained in recent years.
In addition to hands-on work, you will benefit personally: gain fascinating insights into ecological relationships, learn to identify invasive plant species, and understand how conservation is put into practice. You will leave not only with a memorable nature experience, but also with valuable knowledge that stays with you.
Get involved in this volunteering opportunity and actively help protect biodiversity for the future.
Current project status
12 placesare still free (out of a total of 12)
35 daysremaining until (registration deadline)
Duration:
Friday, 19 June 2026 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Location:
- Meeting point: Filisur station (paid parking available)
- Work site: along the two rivers Landwasser and Albula
How it will work:
- 9:00 a.m. Gather at the meeting point and move to the work site
- 9:30 a.m. Introduction
- 10:00 a.m. Combatting neophytes in a protected landscape in the Albula valley
- 12:00 noon Lunch in the field (own picnic)
- 1:00 p.m. Continuation of work
- 4:00 p.m. End of work and snack offered by the Parc Ela association
During the day, information will be provided on diverse environmental topics
Introduction:
You will receive a thorough introduction to the tasks from experienced professionals and will be guided throughout the entire volunteering day. The briefing takes place on site – no prior preparation is required.
Support:
During the assignment, you will learn more about the purpose and impact of your contribution, as well as about current environmental topics.
You will be supported by two staff members from Parc Ela.
Tasks:
- Manually combatting invasive neophytes.
- Cutting back, digging back or pulling out the plants, depending on the species.
What you’ll need:
- You enjoy working outdoors.
- You’re physically fit for a day of field work.
- You are surefooted in areas without paths.
- You can understand or be understood in German, Romansh or English.
Note:
- Hiking shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothing that can get dirty (long trousers and long-sleeved top recommended)
- Sun / rain protection
- Rucksack including picnic lunch
- Work gloves (if you have them)
- Possible change of clothes and shoes
Project language
German, English
Parc Ela is located in the heart of Graubünden and unites three language cultures: Romansh, German and Italian. With steep mountain peaks and vast landscapes, the park still feels like a genuine wilderness. In the valleys, historic villages and Baroque churches remind us of the former importance of the trade routes over the Albula, Julier and Septimer Alpine passes. The park communities have joined forces to advance sustainable economic and social development. They work to preserve precious natural and cultural resources, strengthen the local economy and promote tourism close to nature.