Social Day experience report: A day in the moor

Name of the project: Peatland Management in Gleißental

Date: March 22, 2023

Naam: Stefanie Koller

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Why did you participate in the project?

I've never worked as a private volunteer before, so I really wanted to try it out. I am also very interested in environmental and conservation issues in general. In fact, I have never dealt with peatland management before and found it very exciting how important intact peatlands are for the climate as the most effective carbon store of all land habitats. And to preserve them, unwanted vegetation must be removed regularly.

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What did you particularly like?

We were absolutely lucky with the weather and were able to soak up a lot of sun all day long. In addition, far away from cell phones and computer screens, it was simply a great change from everyday office life. You were physically exhausted at the end of the day, but at the same time you felt so relaxed.

The moor itself was simply exciting — what vegetation grows there and how you suddenly sank into the ground in certain places and the frogs that hid in the grass — that day I simply experienced and discovered so many new things.

In addition, those responsible from the Bund Naturschutz were very nice and explained and showed us a lot of things. Working with them and my colleagues was a lot of fun! 😊

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What did you perhaps not like so much?

To notice the next day that you have muscles in places you didn't even know (fun 😉).

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How important is volunteer work to you?

Even though I haven't worked as a volunteer before, I think it's very important. I believe that each of us should take responsibility for our community and, of course, for our environment. Volunteer work is the opportunity to assume this responsibility and at the same time gives you the opportunity to gain new experience and develop your personal strengths. You can also expand your network and get to know many people who have the same interests.

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What are you taking away from the project?

Unfortunately, taking care of bog once a year is not enough. It takes many helpers to get rid of unwanted vegetation from a moor, which of course is also constantly growing back. Unfortunately, one can therefore also speak of a — never-ending — Sisyphean work. And yet every work done is so valuable for the moor.

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Three words that best describe your volunteering experience?

Exciting, educational & nature (PUR) 😊

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Is there anything else you'd like to get rid of?

I love that my employer allows me to participate in social projects like this. It is a great feeling when your own actions can actually have a positive effect and you are needed. I'll definitely be back at the start of the next bog care campaign. 💪

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