Find out how you can contribute

About the Project

The Massaciuccoli Oasis, established in 1985, is situated within the Chiarone Nature Reserve in the Migliarino-San Rossore-Massaciuccoli Regional Park in Tuscany, Italy. Managed by the Italian League for the Protection of Birds (LIPU/BirdLife Italia), the Oasis has grown into a significant conservation center, attracting over 40,000 visitors each year. Its primary objectives are to protect natural habitats, monitor bird populations, and conserve biodiversity, with a specific focus on preserving the unique ecosystems of Lake Massaciuccoli. This is achieved through dedicated research, educational programs, and the involvement of volunteers in safeguarding rare species and advocating for sustainability. LIPU plays a crucial role in the environmental planning and management of the Reserve, ensuring the upkeep of visitor facilities, and conducting thorough monitoring of plant and animal life. Furthermore, LIPU oversees tourism activities and spearheads environmental education initiatives, including the organization of events, summer camps, and the implementation of educational projects within local schools.

Location

Massaciuccoli is a village on the eastern shore of Tuscany’s largest lake, Lake Massaciuccoli. Located in the municipality of Massarosa (Province of Lucca), this shallow coastal lake, formed by the Serchio River delta, is a vital Italian wetland ecosystem rich in biodiversity, surrounded by reed beds, marshes, and woodland. The area also boasts significant history, with the 1st-century CE Roman Villa dei Venulei archaeological site featuring well-preserved thermal baths and a marine-themed floor mosaic.

Accommodation

Volunteers will share a room with other volunteers.

Volunteer Tasks

  • bird monitoring
  • feeding and temporary care of injured birds
  • monitoring of plant species
  • gardening
  • trash collection in lake, beach, and reserve
  • renovation and creation of bird observatories
  • habitat maintenance and various constructions
  • helping in the on-site shop and small museum
  • guiding small eco-walks; driving little boats
  • administrative tasks (explaining paths to visitors, receiving payments, track
  • bookings, etc)
  • preparation and cleaning of rooms for guests
  • cleaning spaces and cooking meals

Volunteer Requirements

  • Strong interest for the subject of the project;
  • Patient, flexible and proactive personality;
  • A friendly, communicative and active attitude;
  • Willingness for live in a small, traditional and provincial town;
  • Open-minded and responsible attitude;
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Our partners

We work with the support of or in cooperation with: