As part of its efforts to achieve GSTC Level 3 certification, the Tourism Association Olang is consistently pursuing the goal of embedding sustainability in all areas of destination development. In addition to ecological measures, this also includes the active support of local associations and structures that have always played a key role in maintaining the cultural landscape.
One central field of action is the sustainable maintenance of hiking and walking trails. In Olang, this responsibility has traditionally been carried out by the Alpenverein Südtirol, with the exception of the trails located within the Fanes-Sennes-Prags Nature Park. Over many decades, outstanding work has been achieved through voluntary commitment.
In this context, it is particularly worth highlighting that this year, for the first time, the Alpenverein Olang has succeeded in involving trail sponsors who independently take care of individual hiking trails. This commitment is of invaluable importance and deserves great recognition.
Right now, it is becoming increasingly challenging to find enough volunteers for these important tasks. In parallel, the requirements for trail maintenance have increased significantly in recent years:
These developments clearly show that additional support is necessary in order to ensure the high quality and safety of the trails in the long term.
Against this background, the Tourism Association Olang is launching the “Trail Ranger Olang” project in close coordination with the Alpenverein Olang and the Municipality of Olang. The aim is to meaningfully complement and relieve the existing volunteer structures without replacing them.
From May to September, one person will be appointed to take care of the maintenance of selected hiking and walking trails. The tasks include:
The “Trail Ranger Olang” project makes a concrete contribution to fulfilling key areas of action within the GSTC certification:
With the “Trail Ranger Olang” project, the Tourism Association makes a concrete contribution to the sustainable development of the destination, strengthens cooperation with local associations and provides targeted support for the valuable commitment of the Alpenverein and its volunteers…
…and this is what sustainability means to us.