Urban Forest Conservation

International Napoli Network (INN) is a cooperative that partners with local public schools and NGOs to provides resources that support health and welfare, environmental conservation, education. Volunteers and interns are placed with partner NGOs and we support you and our partners during your placement.

INN is partnering with Oasi degli Astroni, a natural protected area between the city of Naples and the Phlygrean Fields.

The crater has an extension of about 250 hectares and a perimeter of about 6.5 km. The eruptive activity manifested itself in 7 different eruptions, which began about 4100 years ago and ended about a century later

The Oasis, with more than 600.000 trees (many of them grown over the centuries) is the home for many species of animals. Birds are among the most numerous animals and certainly among the easiest to observe with over 130 species populating the crater throughout the year: ducks, herons, birds of prey, woodpeckers and many small passerines. The crater is the nesting site of five majestic species of diurnal birds of prey: peregrine falcon, kestrel, sparrow hawk, buzzard and honey buzzard. There are many species of reptiles, anphibex and mammals and a huge number of invertebrates (about 55 different butterflies among the others). 

The Oasis therefore has a significant impact with its natural heritage on the city's ecosystem and makes a decisive contribution to purifying the atmosphere in the city's western districts. 

Volunteers have the opportunity to help preserve the natural protected area their tasks will vary depending on their background.  Volunteers can expect physically rewarding work.

Among the activties, in particular from Mid June to Mid August there's always to join activities of fire prevention with patroling of specific areas. 

Fires are one of the most important threats during the summer season in the Mediterranean area and a few years ago, this area was also affected by a large fire that affected a large number of trees.

Other activities are always outdoors and of a physical nature, such as path cleaning and vegetation care. The oasis also has a beehive, which is useful for educational activities for children, but also for the conservation of a species that is fundamental for regulating the balance of the ecosystem. Volunteers take part in beehive and bee care activities.

For those with additional skills, depending on the needs of the oasis, desk support for translations, communication activities among others can also be considered. 

Work schedule depends on the current workload and the weather and will be discussed with the Oasis staff.