Volunteer in the Ecuadorian Cloud Forest

Description of Program:

This program is located in the Pichinchua Province of Ecuador about 90 km from Quito. Volunteers will be situated in a biological reserve. The Cloud Forest Station is focused on conservation efforts, specifically combating deforestation, restoring degraded areas, and exploring sustainable strategies to support the surrounding environment and the local community. All nature enthusiasts including volunteers, students, researchers, and birdwatchers are welcome to explore the Biological Station.

One of the other goals of this Biological Reserve is to emphasize the importance of integrated farming and utilizing agricultural practices to complement other efforts to preserve the forest. This dual focus on conservation and agriculture will promote an economic incentive to sustain the reserve while remaining environmentally friendly.

Description of Work:

Volunteers will be able to contribute to the preservation of this important ecological station by learning new skills including organic agriculture, alternative animal practices, forestry conservation, bio-food production, sustainable wood preservation, eco-construction, and alternative energy sources.

Schedule:

Monday – Learn how to create products derived from the station including cheese, coffee, bread, and cleaning disinfectants.
Tuesday – Discussion and group learning about the culture and society of Ecuador as well as aspects of the Cloud Forest including flora and indigenous peoples.
Wednesday – Engage in friendly games and competition with the local staff and other volunteers; the tradition of a football game is especially fun and exciting.
Every other Friday – Walk with staff members and other volunteers on an educational hike through the Cloud Forest.

The Ecuadorian Cloud Forest is one of the most amazing natural sites in the entire world and by participating in this program, you would have the opportunity to live and work in this phenomenal, immersed in a fascinating culture.

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