Description

Targeting conservation priorities of Andalucia's stunning Parque Natural Sierra de las Nieves, this project in conjunction with dynamic local volunteer group Red de Voluntarios, is an example of real conservation volunteering.

We're working on a variety of projects in the Natural Park and through these will have the opportunity to get to the heart and soul of the place. Lest it be said that the only way to do this is on horseback, then we'll be having a go at that too.

Who we're working with
The Red de Voluntarios - a dynamic volunteer group set up in 2007 which carries out conservation works in the Parque Natural Sierra de las Nieves in Valancia in the deep South of Spain. The group has some 60 members and has monthly working days which attract 15-25 members. It operates under the umbrella of the Junta de Andalucia, who fund a co-ordinator, Juanjo Jimenez, and whose aim is to promote a volunteer group in each of its Parks. The programme of work is agreed between the group, Rafa Haro, Park Director, and the coordinator once a year.

Where we're working
The Parque Natural Sierra de las Nieves is one of a number of protected areas in Andalucia. Covering an area of 30km by 20km, the park centres on Mount Torrecilla (1,919m). Geologically, the park is primarily limestone with its characteristic deep ravines and spectacular gorges - including the world's third deepest sink hole which descends to 1,100m.

Sierra de las Nieves is at the climatic boundary of the Atlantic and the Mediterranean and has an original and varied flora. It's particularly noted for the Pinsapo, a fir tree 'left behind' after the last ice age and is thus unique. The park also contains one of the biggest populations of Spanish ibex in Andalucia, together with fox, otter, roe deer and wild boar.

Its proximity to Ronda, a world heritage site, is also of note, as are the handful of 'white' villages to be found within the park's boundaries. Traditional activities, especially relating to grazing are still alive, and there is ample evidence of past activities such as ancient threshing floors and ice wells, which all form parts of the park's patrimony.

What we'll be doing
All our work is defined by park's management plan and agreed, as with The Red de Voluntarios, with the Park Director, Rafa Haro. This will reflect need identified after the winter, but is likely to include construction, repair and installation of nesting boxes for small birds and bats, maintenance and construction of small ponds and pools for insects, amphibians and other wildlife, as well as tree planting.

Benefits of our work
The work itself is of high conservation value, addressing the conservation priorities of the park's management plan. In reality, and particularly in the current economic climate, volunteer input into this kind of 'non-economic' activity is critical to ensuring it happens at all.

The Red de Voluntarios meet once a month and our input will dramatically improve the output in terms of conservation works achieved over the year. Importantly too, they note that running this project with BTCV will have a valuable impact on their profile in the area and strengthen links between the Park and its population. Through this project, we're helping to promote a sustainable local base for conservation volunteering.

Where we'll be staying
La Rejertilla - an outdoor centre, specialising in horse riding, with dormitory accommodation spread through several buildings. There is a large living area with TV, fireplace etc. together with smaller relaxing areas. Facilities include a canteen, stables, natural swimming pool, football pitch all situated within the National Park, approximately 6km from the village of El Burgo.

Highlights

Our work will give us the opportunity to really get to know the park intimately, with plenty of opportunity to explore this stunning area. One project within the 'finca', deep in the park, is rewarded by a free pony trek!

Apart from nearby El Burgo, a typical Andalucian 'white village', a major attraction will be a visit to the historic town of Ronda with its Moorish remains, the oldest bullring in Spain and spectacular gorge dividing the town in two. The 'delights' of the Costa del Sol are also within fairly easy reach...

Languages

• English
• Spanish

Cost in US$:

580 GBP

Cost Includes:

• Food
• Housing
• Medical insurance
• Travel while in host country

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

• Conservation
• Repairs
• Tree Planting

Age Range

18 - 80

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Dormitory

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

in Groups of 12

Application Process Involves

• Other

Typically The Application Process Time is

n/a

BTCV's Mission Statement

A better environment where people are valued, included and involved. Mission: To create a more sustainable future by inspiring people and improving places. Values: BTCV's values are integral to all our work. They have been developed through four decades of a 'hands-on' approach to conservation activities. During this time we have adapted to meet the changing needs of communities, we care about people, the communities in which they live and the quality of their environment.

Year Founded

1959