Volunteering in Nature Conservation at BirdLife Klingnauer Stausee
Leuggern
04.08.2026
Environment
The Gippinger Grien is a valuable floodplain of national importance. Its species‑rich wet meadows are home to rare plants such as the Siberian iris and swamp spurge. At the same time, so‑called neophytes—introduced plant species like the New York aster—are spreading rapidly and displacing native, less competitive species.
As part of this voluntary nature conservation effort, you will make a tangible contribution to preserving this rare habitat. Under the expert guidance of experienced leaders from the BirdLife Nature Center at Klingnauer Stausee, you will learn to identify and effectively remove problematic plant species. Along the way, you will gain insights into ecological relationships, biodiversity, and the importance of maintenance work for endangered natural areas.
The assignment combines meaningful engagement with hands‑on learning in nature. In addition to practical work, participants benefit from expert knowledge and develop a deeper understanding of the natural landscape around Klingnauer Stausee—an experience that creates lasting value beyond the volunteering day itself.
After the field work, participants are invited to take part in a guided tour of the BirdLife Nature Centre Klingnauer Stausee, including nature observation.
Current project status
20 placesare still free (out of a total of 20)
123 daysremaining until (registration deadline)
Duration:
- Tuesday, 4 August 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.
- Further volunteering opportunities will take place on:
- Thursday, 13 August – link to project registration
- Thursday, 27 August – link to project registration
Location:
Gippinger Grien at Klingnauer-Stausee, Leuggern (Kanton Aargau)
Meeting point: Parkplatz bei ARA Leuggern, Dammweg, 5316 Leuggern
Meeting point on Google Maps: Link
How it will work:
- 08:30 a.m. Arrival, welcome and introduction
- 08:45 a.m. Field work: removing invasive plant species (neophytes) and problem plants
- 12:45 p.m. Group walk to the BirdLife Nature Centre
- 01:00 p.m. Lunch break (bring your own picnic)
- 01:30 p.m. Coffee and cake (provided by the Nature Centre)
- 02:00 p.m. Guided tour of the Nature Centre incl. nature observation
- 02:45 p.m. End of the assignment
Note: Changing facilities are available at the Nature Centre before departure.
Introduction:
At the beginning, an experienced leader from BirdLife will explain the tasks on site.
Support:
Guidance and support will be provided by the BirdLife Nature Center at Klingnauer Stausee throughout the entire work assignment.
Tasks:
- Removing invasive plant species (neophytes)
- Mowing problematic plant growth
- Actively contributing to the protection of rare plant and animal species
What you’ll need:
- Motivation for light physical work outdoors
- Approx. 4 hours of active participation
- Enjoyment of working outside in nature
Note:
- Weather‑appropriate outdoor clothing
- Long‑sleeved clothing (protection against scratches)
- Rubber boots or hiking / trekking shoes
- Personal food and drinks
- Sun and/or rain protection (including headwear)
- Gardening or work gloves (if available)
- Recommended: spare clothes and shoes for the journey home
Important:
- Participants with known allergies to pollen or plant contact are advised to bring appropriate anti‑allergy medication if needed.
Source: BirdLife-Naturzentrum Klingnauer Stausee
Project language
German, English
With 70,000 members, BirdLife Switzerland is one of the largest nature conservation organizations in Switzerland. The network brings together 440 local nature conservation associations, 17 cantonal associations and two national organizations. Their members are all members of BirdLife Switzerland