Bergwaldprojekt (Mountain Forest Project)
Mountain Forest | Since time immemorial, we have depended on the mountain forest as a protective forest. It protects us from avalanches, rockfalls, erosion, and floods. At the same time, it serves as a habitat for numerous animal and plant species, a recreational space, and a source of timber. Furthermore, as an important carbon reservoir and supplier of clean air, it plays a crucial role in the fight against climate change.
Bergwaldprojekt | The Bergwaldprojekt (Mountain Forest Project) is a non-profit foundation based in Trin GR. Since 1987, it has been committed to maintaining protective forests and cultural landscapes in mountainous regions. Through volunteer work assignments, it promotes the sustainable preservation of mountain forests and their services. The organization also raises public awareness about the importance of mountain forests. To date, around 100 000 volunteers have participated in projects in mountain forests in Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Spain, and Liechtenstein.
Idea and Objective | Volunteers work in the mountain forest and make a valuable contribution. Under the guidance of experts, they learn about the unique characteristics and interconnections of this fascinating ecosystem. Through their active involvement, they experience the mountain forest firsthand and directly contribute to preserving its many functions. This enhances both their personal and ecological awareness.
Useful information about taking part in the Bergwaldprojekt >>>
Support | The work of the Bergwaldprojekt is made possible by membership contributions, donations, bequests, and grants from forest owners. The increasing impacts of climate change, growing wildlife damage, and higher demands for forest protection make every hour of volunteer work and every small donation indispensable. A heartfelt thank you for your support!
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Our Offer
Information about participation opportunities and registration pages is currently available only in German. However, we are already working on a multilingual version. In the meantime, feel free to contact us if you have any questions or need assistance: .
Bergwaldprojekt Week for Adults
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(in german)
Make an active contribution to the mountain forest: Under the motto «Everyone talks about the forest, we go there! », volunteers, even without prior forestry knowledge, take part in forestry work under expert guidance. This gives them insight into the complex interactions of the mountain forest. A Bergwaldprojekt week for adults is generally open to all adults and is free of charge.
Generations take care of the forest together: In family projects, adults and children work together on sustainable forestry tasks, interspersed with three half-day excursions and plenty of time to experience and explore the mountain forest. Children from the age of six can participate, provided they are accompanied by at least one adult. A participation fee is charged.
More information >>>
(in german)
Out of the classroom, into the forest: Young people actively work in groups on forestry tasks, deepening their understanding of the mountain forest and strengthening group cohesion. Project weeks are organized upon request and take place either in the mountain forest of the home community or at another location in Switzerland. A contribution is required for meals, accommodation, and the organization of forestry work.
More information >>>
(in german)
Teamwork for the Mountain Forest (Corporate Volunteering): Employees of a company or organization work together in the forest, strengthening team spirit and cohesion. The costs for meals, accommodation, tools, and project management depend on the number of participants and are covered by the company. Project days or weeks are organized upon request and take place in a mountain forest in Switzerland.
Overnight stay under the protective forest: The Mountain Forest Center Mesaglina serves as the «base camp» for the Bergwaldprojekt and is also an official youth hostel. When available and outside of project operations, it is open to guests. Accommodation is provided under the protective forest, in the historic building «Casa Mesaglina», which has been renovated with local mountain forest wood and is heated with wood chips.
