Gastautor
With open eyes through nature
Experience nature consciously
Summer
Winter
Autumn
Spring
11.08.2025
Anna's areas of responsibility What does a ranger do?
"Most of my work takes place outdoors – surrounded by the impressive nature of the Kleinwalsertal valley," says Anna, a ranger in the Kleinwalsertal valley. Her job is to observe, document and protect the natural and cultural landscape. Among other things, she checks whether existing control measures are effective – for example, whether designated forest wildlife sanctuaries are being respected by ski tourers.
Anna is also active in the summer: she coordinates volunteer initiatives to repair trails and maintain sensitive habitats. "This summer, for example, we were in the Ifen area repairing hiking trails. We also removed invasive impatiens – a so-called neophyte – from the Breitach." A commitment to nature that has a visible impact with every action. But the work goes far beyond that. She acts as a mediator between hunters, farmers, hut owners and landowners, ensuring that all interests are coordinated.
Anna's work equipment What do you always take with you on tour?
"I try to carry everything I might need in the field in my backpack," says Anna – and laughs, because her equipment is as versatile as her everyday life. From a rain jacket and sunscreen to binoculars and a repair kit with cable ties to a rubbish bag: she is prepared for every situation. She now also always carries a clothes peg with her – so she can pick up rubbish without having to touch it directly. "If I find it disgusting, how bad must it be for the animals whose habitat is polluted by carelessly discarded rubbish?" she asks thoughtfully. For assignments involving the installation of new information signs, a cordless screwdriver, screws and a special telescopic ladder are also part of the standard equipment. "The ladder is actually designed for roof tents – it can be folded up and attached to a backpack with expanders. This allows me to be flexible on the go without having to carry a bulky ladder." And, of course, she always has her work mobile phone with her. "I have hundreds of photos on it – mainly of signs that I need to document or check."
Incidentally, the photo showing Anna's equipment was taken during the "baggage check" for "Bergwelten" magazine.
Anna's working day Mix of nature and office
"My day always begins at the Walserhaus in Hirschegg", Anna explains. There, she plans her tours and completes the necessary documentation. Then she sets off into nature. Depending on how long the tour lasts, she either returns to the office for lunch or finishes work immediately after the tour. And how could it be otherwise? Anna also prefers to spend her free time outdoors in nature.
Anna's favourite task & challenges Special features of the work
"What I appreciate most is being outdoors in nature so much and being able to enjoy its beauty in my job. I can't even pick a specific favourite task", says Anna. She finds it particularly exciting and challenging when signs have to be installed that are difficult to attach. "That often requires a lot of creativity to find a suitable solution."
ANNA'S MAIN PLACES OF WORK HERE YOU CAN MEET ANNA
"I mainly spend my time in the side valleys – depending on the season, on hiking trails in summer or on well-known ski touring routes in winter", says Anna. "There are also regular events such as "Meet the Ranger", where I enjoy giving interested visitors exciting insights – for example, about rubbish and how long it takes to decompose, or other nature conservation topics."
ANNA'S INFLUENCE ON THE KLEINWALSERTAL VALLEY WHY IS WORK SO IMPORTANT?
"As a ranger, I am the direct link between people and nature", says Anna. "A personal conversation often has much more impact than a flyer." It is also important to regularly check nature and its infrastructure: after a long winter, all signs must be clearly visible and intact for the summer – and vice versa.
Anna also collects valuable feedback and contributes it to the "Experience Nature Consciously"-initiative – an association that promotes respectful treatment of nature and each other, gives nature a voice and helps us to act even more mindfully in the future.
