A refuge for research

Traditionally, the refuge is the place where hikers and climbers are welcomed, where useful information about weather and terrain conditions for exploration can be received, and where help can be provided in case of need. A recent initiative by the managers of the Onelio Amprimo refuge, in the Orsiera Rocciavré Natural Park, expands this concept as it offers tangible support not only to those who visit the mountains for leisure but also for scientific study.

Hosting researchers

The idea, launched last August by the managers, is an invitation to teachers, researchers, PhD students, and students: the refuge is available to host free of charge those who wish to develop a research project to be carried out in the mountain area where the structure is located. Applications must be submitted by January 30, 2027; the activities should take place in spring-summer 2027 and must include a moment of feedback at the refuge at the end of the study.
«It all arises from our deep love for these mountains – begins Irene Canale, who manages the refuge together with partner Lorenzo Salerno – and from our desire to give back something to these wonderful environments. I would like the visitors of Amprimo and Pian Cervetto to come here not only to consume something, like a meal, a photo to share on social media, or a day outdoors, but with the goal of knowing and appreciating the territory and its peculiarities, even from a scientific point of view. I practically grew up here because my great-grandparents built a cabin in the area in the '30s, and I feel that the time has come to spread a shared awareness on the issue of climate crisis, which particularly affects the mountains. The best way is to promote research and then involve scholars in the dissemination of the results among the public and among enthusiasts.»

The projects

In a short time, Irene and Lorenzo have already received a large number of requests from scholars belonging to prestigious universities, including foreign ones, of high scientific level. A complex selection process will be necessary, especially since the refuge can accommodate only one researcher per project and no more than two projects at the same time.
«This – continues Irene – was the idea we shared with Lorenzo from the very first day we decided to participate in the Cai Uget call for applications in Bussoleno for the assignment of the refuge, so we are very curious to see what kind of proposals will come in. So far, we have received all kinds: from the study of the history of the woods through the ancient charcoal pits that existed in the area to that on the genomics of fungi and lichens, from monitoring cyanobacteria to the hydrological management of watercourses. And there are still 3 months until the deadline… It will also be a way to return to my previous work experience because I dealt with project management after obtaining a degree in engineering with a master's in climate change. In short, it will be a pleasure to analyze the different projects and then discuss them with the researchers who will come to study our mountains.»