19/07-04/08.     ENVI/CULT
10 VOLs  18+

Description of the project: Koviljsko-petrovaradinski rit, marshland on the left bank of the Danube River, is protected as a Special Nature Reserve on the basis of its great nature values. The Rit looks like small rainforest in the Panonian Valley and abounds in strings, channels, swamps and deserted beds. It has great significance for preservation of habitants of different flora and fauna and its biocenosis. This beautiful nature reserve protects many rare animals, birds and fishes. The village is well known by one of the Europe’s largest populations of black and white storks and for the relics of rainforest, yellow and white water lilies. Koviljsko-petrovaradinski rit is IBA Important Bird Area of international significance, and it will be suggested for Ramsar list of wetlands of international importance.
Unfortunately a lot of these beautiful ecosystems are degraded by inappropriate human behavior, so one of our aims are education of local inhabitants about discovering their nature and traditional value, incentive for development of ecotourism and preservation of local tradition and customs. 
One of the curiosities of the village is the Monastery of Kovilj built in 12th century dedicated to St. Archangels. This is the second largest monastery in Serbia, and it gives great opportunity to meet with Serbian culture and history.

Work: Cleaning of the green areas and banks of the rit. Also volunteers will help in preparation of local village and monastery celebration of village patron St. Archangel Mihailo, which is traditionally held every year on the 26th of July. Work will include cleaning and decorating the area around the monastery, setting up stalls for exhibition of old handicrafts aiming at promotion of culture and tradition of local people. Most of the work will be outdoors on Danube bank, so this is a perfect project for nature lovers and all people used to be outside!

Free Time Activities: Boat rides with possibility of taking photos of beautiful nature of the Kovilj marshland and large number of birds passing right near you and flying right above your head. Visits to the monastery of Kovilj and local fair dedicated to St. Archangel, and its long tradition and historical value. Visiting the nearby beaches, famous Arkanj beach and its famous traditional restaurant “At the end of the world”, swimming in Danube estuary and other sport activities. Excursion to Novi Sad, visiting the Petrovaradin fortress and other cultural and historical values. Excursion to the Fruska gora mountain. Workshops about different subject. Sport activities, fishing and relaxing on the local beaches.

Accommodation: In a house ,,Tikvara” on the marshland bank of Danube estuary. Beds will be available but sleeping bags are necessary. All necessary sanitary facilities (toilets and indoor and outdoor shower) are provided. Volunteers will have kitchen in the house where they will prepare food. It would be nice if volunteers can bring their recipes and spices so that they can present gastronomical tradition of their country.

Language: English
 
Location: Village Kovilj, 20 km of Novi Sad, 50 km from Belgrade

Terminal: Novi Sad train or bus station