Welcome Naturpark Beverin to the EUROPARC Federation

The EUROPARC Federation is delighted to welcome Naturpark Beverin as a new member. Located in the Swiss Alps, the park unites nine municipalities that work together to protect nature, preserve cultural landscapes, and strengthen rural communities.

Naturpark Beverin shows how biodiversity conservation and regional development can succeed together. Its projects restore valuable habitats, support traditional farming, and create lasting benefits for people who live and work in the region.

Protecting cultural landscapes

Traditional alpine landscapes define the identity of Naturpark Beverin. The park actively preserves these landscapes through practical conservation and close cooperation with local farmers.

One important project restores historic dry-stone walls. These walls mark pasture boundaries, protect slopes from wind and avalanches, and provide shelter for many plants, insects, reptiles, and small mammals.

The park also uses goats and Engadin sheep to restore species-rich dry meadows. Carefully managed grazing reduces scrub encroachment and brings abandoned alpine pastures back into use. At the same time, Naturpark Beverin supports the production and marketing of regional sheep and goat products, helping mountain farming remain economically viable.

Restoring habitats for nature and climate

Naturpark Beverin invests in large-scale habitat restoration that benefits biodiversity and climate resilience.

The Äbi river restoration is one of Switzerland’s largest river revitalisation projects. The park is widening and relocating more than one kilometre of the Hinterrhein to recreate natural river dynamics. As a result, floodplain habitats will recover and native wildlife will gain new space to thrive.

Another flagship project focuses on the Nursera raised bog. By closing old drainage ditches, the park has stopped the peatland from drying out. This restoration improves water storage, protects rare species, and strengthens an important natural carbon sink.

Supporting people and local businesses

Healthy landscapes need thriving communities. For this reason, Naturpark Beverin combines conservation with sustainable regional development.

The Val Schons commercial zone creates opportunities for local businesses and workshops. It supports jobs, encourages regional value creation, and helps reduce out-migration while respecting the surrounding landscape.

The park also works with a wide network of regional partners. It supports product development, promotes local resources, and organises volunteer projects with farmers. In addition, schools take part in outdoor learning programmes that help young people discover nature and cultural heritage firsthand.

Managing tourism through partnership

Tourism plays an important role in the region, and Naturpark Beverin works to balance visitor experiences with habitat protection.

Together with the Zurich University of Applied Sciences, the park is developing visitor monitoring and management tools. Rangers, tourism organisations, municipalities, and cantonal authorities all contribute to the project. Clear information, positive signage, and digital solutions help guide visitors while reducing pressure on sensitive wildlife areas.

A strong foundation for collaboration

Partnership is central to the success of Naturpark Beverin. The park’s nine municipalities form the foundation of its governance, while organisations such as Pro Natura, Ranger Ruinaulta, hunting associations, and local heritage groups contribute valuable knowledge and support.

We warmly welcome Naturpark Beverin to the EUROPARC Federation and look forward to working together for Europe’s protected landscapes and the communities that care for them.