This last weekend of August we came to one of the greatest islands in Estonia. 

Fifth time in a talgud and second as group leader. As in all experiences during this summer, I learned more about the details and importance of organizing volunteering activities. In this camp in particular, we did it together with Maria dealing with all the “Estonian” things and Kristen as our super driver. This time, we came with our very international group to work next to coastal meadows which are important habitats for many species of migratory birds. Some of them need very open spaces to nest, so we helped here by removing little Juniperus shrubs to keep these areas available. 

Here my “top 5” list of this camp:

  • A very kind and committed landowner. Here you can see the importance of every role in real nature conservation: State, landowners, NGOs, volunteers…It only make sense when every stakeholder do his part.
  • Sleeping in a library. I think it´s the most original place I had ever slept in, plus, I found very difficult to stop reading before going to sleep!
  • Cute “Sauna car”. No traditional saunas available around? No problem, we had this portable sauna attached to ELF´s minivan so we set it where we wanted. Of course, we choose a pretty place next to the sea.
  • Hiking in the narrowest cape possible. It seems it never ends but you manage to go until the end. It´s a curious feeling to see so little land under your feet and all the Baltic around.
  • Having fun with the volunteers recording “Bumblebee” videos. But, this is a post for another time ;)