Environmental protection of Codera Valley in the Rhaetian Alps.
Description: The Friends of the Codera Valley Association(www.valcodera.com) was founded in 1981 and has therefore been engaged for over 40 years in the protection and eco-friendly promotion of the Codera valley, which is located in the Rhaetian Alps in the province of Sondrio. The valley has no road access and the villages that are located there can only be reached on foot. This isolation has preserved the cultural and environmental authenticity of the valley, which is frequented all year round by valley dwellers and hikers. The main objective of the association is the protection and enhancement of the environmental and cultural heritage of the valley (a typical example of Alpine civilization), also favoring slow and conscious tourism that knows how to appreciate the peculiar attractions of the place.
Type of Work: During the camp, environmental restoration activities will be carried out such as: cleaning of lawns and paths from brambles and weeds; cleaning of portions of the forest from weeds; transport by wheelbarrow and arrangement of the wood obtained; cleaning and recovery of the ancient pedestrian viability. The volunteers will work for about 6-7 hours a day, including walking times to/from the places of the activities (always near the village of San Giorgio), and during the camp they will have a day off.
Study Theme: Analysis of mountain areas, focusing on the Codera Valley, where depopulation threatens identity, traditions, and territorial stability. The project explores revitalization efforts to preserve heritage and promote eco-sustainable tourism. A workshop will engage volunteers in discussions on sustainable development, climate change, and industrialization’s impact. On the final day, it will open to the community, fostering awareness and growth through idea exchange with young international volunteers.
Accommodation: Volunteers will stay at the Parish House in San Giorgio, a historic stone and wood building with a kitchen, living room, and three rooms with beds, including bunk beds, equipped with mattresses, pillows, blankets, and sleeping bags. The shared bathroom has a shower with hot water; volunteers must bring towels. Laundry is done manually in the village’s public basin. Meals, mainly pasta and vegetables, are prepared by the Friends of Val Codera Association with volunteers' help. Lunch can be packed for activities.
Requirements: San Giorgio is beautiful but remote, requiring a 2.5 hour climb with your bag. There are no shops, so adaptability to the alpine environment is essential. Mountaineering experience is advised. The camp involves manual work to restore wild areas, requiring motivation, basic tool skills, and physical endurance. Work is mostly under the sun, so bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Approximate Location: San Giorgio, in Codera Valley (Novate Mezzola, Sondrio), is only accessible via a 2.5 hour hiking trail with a 500m altitude gain. Only backpacks can be used, no trolley. At 750m altitude, the climate is mild but can be cold in the morning and evening, so warm and rainproof clothing is advised. Sturdy hiking shoes are essential for the climb and work, while rest shoes and slippers are recommended for leisure. The village has no shops, requiring adaptability to the alpine environment.
Notes: There is not road access, and no shops or public establishments. Food intolerances or requests must be specified in advance. Phones have diversified signals depending on the operator (TIM signal is very good), there is no Wi-Fi. It's necessary to maintain a behavior that respects the environment, peace and habits of mountain people. In the free time there are opportunities for walks in the valley and to have a bath in the Codera river.
Please kindly note that there is an additional incoming fee of 50€ for all volunteers applying through Partner organisations or Contacts of the SCI network. Check the status here: https://bit.ly/3vhBD5J. This fee covers hosting costs, insurance, a small travel fund to enable disadvantaged volunteers to join projects and administration costs.
Camp Photographs
