SEEDS 022. Forestry & trails - West Iceland

WORK/PROJECT: SEEDS volunteers will work in a forest located in the countryside district of Borgarbyggð, West Iceland, doing nature-conservation and environment-oriented tasks. For 18 years SEEDS has been cooperating with the Icelandic Forest Service and local forestry associations: our groups of volunteers have been helping out in different locations all around the country; with very good results for the participants, the projects and the Icelandic nature conservation and reforestation efforts. The main tasks will be clipping branches and chopping (some) trees in the Grímsstaðagirðing forest to open for the forestry paths and clear the working area around the old forest fencing, removing old sticks, installing new ones and fastening fencing wire as to marking a forest path by colored wood sticks. Other tasks will be to trim branches and beautify groves that are located near the paths. Well maintained paths enable people to visit these amazing areas without damaging the surroundings and in addition our volunteers’ work helps to improve safety for visitors. It may be possible to work in other forests in the area, on similar projects, path maintenance, fencing or putting up benches and tables. No previous experience is necessary, but the work is demanding and requires a good physical condition. As it is outdoors work, volunteers shall be ready to adapt and be flexible with the working and free-time schedule, as depending on the weather, we may not be able to perform some of the tasks or activities planned. Weather is unpredictable and it can be cold and/or rainy, so be prepared to experience all kinds of weather. We recommend bringing good walking shoes/boots, warm and/or waterproof clothes (underlayers, overcoats, scarves, gloves and hats), as most of the tasks and activities take place outside.

LOCATION: The project will take place in the countryside of West Iceland; in a district called Borgarbyggð, in a unique natural environment with breathtaking landscapes, between glaciers and lava fields. The place is like an oasis in the desert, as the weather there is often better than in the surroundings. The area's landscape, nature and culture reflect this heritage and bring history to life. There are many possibilities for outdoor recreation in a true natural paradise. The area is home to the most powerful hot spring in Europe, Deildartunguhver. Among the natural wonders nearby are the Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls, where water pours out of a lava field over a length of 1 km. Additionally, the Hallmundarhraun lava field is among the deepest and best known in Iceland. Langjökull (Long Glacier), the second largest glacier in Iceland, expands over 950 km² and its highest point is 1355 m. In addition to natural wonders this area is also famous for being one of the first settled locations in Iceland and featured in some of the oldest Icelandic sagas. Historically, its natural warmth made the location an early settlement adding even more depth to its incredible saga and Viking tales that surround the place. The region can be regarded as the setting for most of the Icelandic sagas.

TERMINAL & TRANSPORT: Closest international Airport: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF). SEEDS offers the minibus option, a shared transport from Reykjavík to the camp and back. Apart from being cheaper and convenient, it allows participants to meet and have a relaxed trip. Meeting point at SEEDS’ office at 11:00 am on June 11. Return to Reykjavík in the late evening of June 19. The minibus to this camp will cost EUR 35 each way, about 20% cheaper than public transport.