Meeting with Sullyvan Henrio

Can you tell us about your experience as an eco-volunteer at the Cirque de Navacelles?

After my civic service with France Nature Environnement, I was looking for a seasonal job as a park ranger in a regional natural park. The pressure of tourism on protected sites, with its associated incivilities and impact on biodiversity, is a major concern for me. Despite applying to several reserves in France, I haven't received a positive response.

Aware of my shortcomings in biodiversity conservation management, I understood that I needed to acquire more skills. I therefore opted for eco-volunteering, a recommended entry point to becoming a park ranger.

How did you find this opportunity and what motivated you to get involved?

I found this opportunity on Territoires Environnement Emploi. Although I did not know the Causses region and the Vis gorges, I was excited at the prospect of discovering this new territory, its history, its geology and its heritage.
This experience allowed me to have enriching exchanges with the Natura 2000 facilitators, the CPIE (Permanent Center for Environmental Initiatives), and other local stakeholders. The three days of training reinforced my desire to explore this field-based approach. I wanted to see if the job of a park ranger met my expectations, and it turned out to be the case.

What are the main tasks of an eco-volunteer?

The main mission is raising awareness. The Joint Syndicate provides a stand and a play area in the hamlet of Navacelles. Every morning, we went out on patrol in pairs along a trail to educate hikers about fire risks, waste management, and the importance of staying on marked trails to preserve the tranquility of the area and avoid disturbing the local wildlife. We also ensured the proper use of the parking lot.

Can you share an experience you had in the field?

In the river, there were children who loved building dams and little cairns. I had to talk to them to explain that they shouldn't do that in order to preserve biodiversity and fish passage. But it was a very difficult message to get across!

What did this mission bring you?

On a personal level, it's quite enriching and intense! You have to answer a variety of questions from different audiences. There was no repetition. I particularly appreciated the autonomy I was given to manage the booth according to my preferences: whether focusing on games, entertainment, or raising awareness and sharing knowledge about the site.

What qualities are required to be a good eco-volunteer?

I would say that it is essential to have good interpersonal skills and a strong team spirit, as well as a welcoming attitude towards a diverse audience. It is important to be a good communicator, to be able to simplify complex information and adapt your approach.
Language should be adapted to the audience. Open-mindedness, motivation, and the ability to question one's communication and information-sharing methods are also essential, as are versatility and responsiveness! And of course, a strong interest in the preservation of listed sites is necessary.

The Cirque de Navacelles