Project

The aim of this camp is to help renovation of the historical watermill Koesti. This watermill dating from the end of 18^th century is an important object of heritage protection for local community. The oldest part of the building existing at present was built in the second half of 19^th century. In 1930 the watermill was made two-storied and on the river side the engineering for producing electric power was built. After the Second World War several changes have been made there. Today association managing the watermill put a lot of effort into developing it into a hydroelectric plant. It is planned to start the alternative electricity generating in 2008. This is a very important step for the local community which goes along with the general plan to raise production use of energy from alternative sources in Estonia.  At present such generating alternative energy projects have not been developed in Estonia yet to the noticeable extend, therefore Koesti Watermill is an important initiative which has to be supported.

Work

The work will include cleaning up the banks of Koesti creek and clearing up the green areas. You will also help with different renovation works at the watermill. Volunteers will be working 6-7 hours per day and 5 days for week under supervision of local technical leaders.

Accommodation

The accommodation facilities will be quite simple: you will stay in the mill house in camp beds. Please bring your own sleeping bag! Toilets are available. Please note that the shower will be a self-made “summer shower”, which means that there will not be any hot water. But you will have a good chance to try Estonian sauna at the weekend! Volunteers will prepare meals themselves from the food provided by hosts using cooking facilities of the house.

Location

The project is located at the border of Viljandi, a town situated in South Estonia on Sakala Upland. Town of Viljandi with its 20,000 inhabitants is an independent unit of local authority and the centre of the county. As a culture town it is well known for its valued Culture Academy, Ugala Drama Theatre and the famous international Folk Music Festival (http://www.folk.ee/ ) held yearly at the end of July. Viljandi lies 160 km from Tallinn, 98 km from Parnu and 80 km from Tartu. More information about Viljandi on www.viljandi.ee/?id=506 and www.viljandimaa.ee/turismiinfo/?lg=eng

Terminal

Airport, harbour, bus & train station in Tallinn; bus and train to Viljandi.

Special requirements

This camp is not suitable for volunteers allergic to different plants or hay. Be prepared for physical work. Please note rather simple washing facilities in this camp. Please bring your sleeping bag and working clothes with you.

Leisure time

There are a lot of possibilities for leisure time activities as camp will take place in the town where one can find attractions for all tastes: sightseeing and museums, festivals, concerts, live music, pubs, etc. You can spend time at Viljandi Lake and go swimming, of course. In the weekend trips to Tartu or Parnu are possible.