2005 Guide for International Conservation Volunteers

Transcription

1 2005 Guide for International Conservation Volunteers

2 Conservation Volunteers in Iceland For over twenty years now, international volunteers have been helping to repair and maintain the trail networks in Iceland s national parks and nature reserves. Iceland s Environment and Food Agency (Umhverfisstofnun) organises a volunteer programme each summer in partnership with BTCV. This includes practical projects throughout the country s protected areas. The volunteer groups work with trained leaders and local staff in these areas. Although the main focus of the volunteer work remains trail maintenance, the programme now includes a variety of other tasks including heritage management and wilderness management. The summer programme now involves more than a hundred people each year. Projects usually last from one to four weeks, but there are also long term volunteer placements. If you visit Skaftafell or Jökulsárgljúfur National Parks, there is a very good chance that you will walk on trails built and maintained by international conservation volunteers.

3 Contents Introduction 1 The Environment and Food Agency of Iceland 1 The International Volunteer Programme 2 Volunteer groups 2 About Iceland 3-4 Summer Project locations 5 Location map 8 Camping in Iceland 9 The work we do 9 Leisure time 13 Hill walking in Iceland safety information 14 Food and drink Food at the camp 16 Money Foreign exchange 17 Price Guide for Travelling in Iceland 19 Transport 19 Accommodation 19 Iceland s weather How cold will it be? 20 Daylight in summer 21 The Northern Lights 22 Vegetation and Wildlife in Iceland Equipment Checklist Additional recommendations 26 Health and Safety 27

4 Introduction We have produced this guide to help you prepare for your trip to Iceland. It includes information about the Environment Agency s conservation volunteer programme and the way the projects are organised. We have included details of all aspects of life on the projects from descriptions of some of the main work tasks, the weather, food and possible leisure time activities. We hope you find it useful and look forward to seeing you in the summer. Plese note: The Environment Agency (Umhverfisstofnun) is not responsible for the content of the external websites listed in this Guide. The Environment and Food Agency (UST) The Environment Agency (Umhverfisstofnun) operates under the direction of the Ministry for the Environment and was established on Jan 1 st It consolidated the duties of previously related agencies. The Agency aims to sustain public well being by working towards a cleaner environment, safer consumer products and the conservation of the natural environment. The Agency s Nature Conservation Department oversees the management and supervision of the country s designated protected sites including three National Parks. The department has two full time staff based in each of the Parks as well a team of 6 at the head office in Reykjavík. Each summer the Agency employs seasonal Nature Wardens who work in the protected areas. The Agency now has a growing volunteer programme which is a key part of the practical management of the country s protected areas. Iceland s Environment and Food Agency, website: If you require further information please contact us: volunteer@ust.is 1

5 The International Volunteer Programme In 2004, the volunteer programme involved over 100 people and over 280 work weeks throughout the country. The programme is organised by the Environment Agency and BTCV Ísland in partnership with several other international organisations. The programme is funded by the Environment Agency, BTCV and contributions from paying volunteers. Additional sponsorship and support is obtained from a variety of organisations and companies in Iceland. Volunteer Groups Iceland Conservation Holidays This programme is run in partnership with BTCV. Holidays take place in five locations throughout the country and last from one to three weeks. As well as the organised work programme these projects include a variety of leisure activities and sightseeing trips and travel from Reykjavík. All the groups have trained leaders. Wilderness Management This programme is run in partnership with the organisation WorkingAbroad and is running for the second season this year. Volunteers spend two weeks on the project, which includes trail maintenance and wilderness management based in the more remote areas of Skaftafell National Park. Weekend projects A series of projects are organised with local volunteers from Sjálfboðaliðasamtök um Náttúruvernd, (Icelandic Conservation Volunteers). International volunteers work together on these projects. National Park Trail Teams UST began a system of seasonal volunteer Trail Teams in This year there will be 2 teams of 4 long-term volunteers working for 10 weeks. Each team be based in Skaftafell and Jökulsárgljúfur National Parks for blocks of 4 working weeks and includes work trips to other protects sites close to the parks. BTCV Volunteer Officers (VOs) These volunteers, are selected by BTCV and join the programme for 10 weeks each summer. VOs work on sites throughout the country and their main role is organising and running the BTCV Conservation Holiday programme. 2

6 Skills Training Programme UST is working with colleges and institutions in Iceland to develop its practical skills training programme. This training focuses on low impact trail construction. National Park placements Students completing work placements as a part of their studies work along side staff and volunteers in Skaftafell National Park. These last from four to eight weeks. Environment Agency volunteers Long-term UST volunteers help to coordinate and run the conservation volunteer programme. Their main tasks include organising projects and providing logistical support. About Iceland Geography - Iceland is a volcanic island in the North Atlantic Ocean immediately south of the Arctic Circle. About 79% of Iceland's land area, which is of recent volcanic origin, consists of glaciers, lakes, a mountainous lava desert and other wasteland. 20% of the land is used for grazing, and 2% is cultivated. The inhabited areas are on the coast, particularly in the southwest. Because of the Gulf Stream's moderating influence, the climate is characterized by damp, cool summers and relatively mild but windy winters. In Reykjavik, the average temperature is 11 o C (52 o F) in July and - 1 o C (30 o F) in January. People - Most Icelanders are descendants of Norwegian settlers and Celts from the British Isles. According to Icelandic Government statistics, 99% of the nations inhabitants live in urban areas (localities with populations greater then 200) and 60% live in Reykjavik and the surrounding area. Of the Nordic languages, the Icelandic language is closest to the Old Norse language and has remained relatively unchanged since the 12th century. Culture - The Sagas, almost all written between A.D., remain Iceland's best known literary accomplishment, and they have no surviving counterpart anywhere in the Nordic world. Based on Norwegian and Icelandic histories and genealogies, the Sagas present views of Nordic life and times up to 1100 A.D. The Saga writers sought to record their heroes' 3

7 great achievements and to glorify the virtues of courage, pride, and honour, focusing in the later Sagas on early Icelandic settlers. The best known Icelandic writer of the 20th century is the Nobel Prize winner Halldor Laxness. Literature and poetry remain a passion with the population. Literacy is 100% in Iceland. History - Iceland was settled in the late 9th and early 10th centuries, principally by people of Norse origin. In 930 A.D., the ruling chiefs established a republican constitution and an assembly called the Althingi, the oldest parliament in the world. Iceland remained independent until 1262, when Iceland entered into a treaty which established a union with the Norwegian monarchy. It passed to Denmark in the late 14th century when Norway and Denmark were united under the Danish crown. In 1874, Denmark granted Iceland home rule. The Act of Union, a 1918 agreement with Denmark, recognized Iceland as a fully sovereign state united with Denmark. Iceland formally became an independent republic on June 17, For more information see - Iceland in statistics Landmælingar Íslands - The National Land Survey of Iceland, Facts and figures: Population (2003) - Total number 290,200 Greater Reykjavík 180,000 Akureyri, capital of the North 15,000 Number of visitors - (estimate for 2003) 300,000 + The land: Total size 103,000 km² Covered by vegetation 23,805 km² Covered by lakes 2,757 km² Covered by glaciers 11,922 km² Largest glacier - Vatnjökull (SE Iceland) 8,300 km² Largest lake - Þórisvatn km² Highest mountain - Hvannadalshnjúkur 2,119 m (nr. Skaftafell NP) Highest waterfall - Glymur 190 m Information from - Around Iceland, 2003 (Heimur) 4

8 Summer 2005 Project locations: Skaftafell National Park - This is the largest national park in Iceland. It was founded in 1967 and after an enlargement in 2004 now covers approximately 4,800 km², though most of this area is covered by glaciers. It has a contrasting landscape of birch forests, glaciers and the vast Skeiðarár sand plain. The area now also includes the Lakagígar craters. The Skaftafell area enjoys a much better climate than many other places in Iceland because it is sheltered by the Öræfajökull glacier. Vegetation in Skaftafell is quite varied. The mountain slopes are covered with birch interspersed with rowan trees in some places. The birch wood at Bæjarstaðaskógur has the tallest birch trees in Iceland. Vegetation is rapidly recovering since grazing was prohibited in the Park. Volunteer are involved in a variety of projects in the park. This summer the upland trail repair programme will continue as will the management programme in the Morsárdalur valley. This work is aimed at controlling the spread of Alaskan lupine to help protect the indigenous plant species and biodiversity in the park. In addition this year, there will be a special focus on timber boardwalk construction. Volunteers will also be involved in heritage projects helping to maintain old farm buildings in the park. Southern Iceland As well as wilderness projects inside Skaftafell National Park, other projects are planned in the protected areas surrounding it. Many of these sites are very remote so teams of volunteers will stay at wilderness camps close to the work sites in these areas. These projects will be organised and supplied from the volunteer basecamp at Skaftafell. Tasks include trail maintenance and removing invasive plant species from these areas. Fjallabak Nature Reserve This reserve is situated in the southern highlands and was established in 1979 to protect the areas natural features. The reserve covers 470 km² and is about 500 metres above sea level. Our 5

9 volunteer work began there in 2001 as part of a practical management programme for the area. Despite its remote location, Fjallabak is extremely popular with visitors which are centred around Landmannalaugar. Volunteer work in the reserve has focused on the circular trail at Laugarhraun close to the Landmannalaugar hut. This summer work will include more remote sites in the area. Herðubreiðarlindir and Askja These 2 sites are found on the Ódáðahraun lava flat which covers approximately 5,000sq km. There are many fascinating geological features in this area including Mt. Herðubreið and Mt. Askja. The former site and 175 km² of its surrounding area became a protected area in This was not only intended to protect the majestic mountain but also the rich and diverse vegetation on along the banks of the river Lindáa and in the Grafarlönd area. The area is also host to a number of bird species including Harlequin ducks, Red Throated Divers, Purple Sandpipers and many others. Trail team volunteers will be working here this summer for the first time. Since 1978 Mt. Askja, a caldera in the Dyngjufjöll mountains, has been a national monument. These mountains were created mostly in a sub-glacial eruption under the ice sheet. A major eruption which emptied the magma chamber under the mountains at the end of the ice age formed the central volcano Askja. In this area, volunteers have been working with local rangers to help remove off road driving tracks. Þðrsmörk Though not under the direct management of UST, volunteers are now involved in trail repair projects in the Þórsmörk area. These are being undertaken in partnership with the Soil Conservation Agency (Landgræðsla ríkisins) as well as other organisations involved in the area. Snæfellsjökull National Park The Park was established in 2001 to protect and conserve the area s unique landscape as well as important historical sites. The Snæfellsjökull glacier is 1446m above sea level. The mountain is an active volcano that has been built up from numerous eruptions during the last 800,000 years. The summit crater is 200m deep and full of ice. Long term volunteer groups began work in the new national park in These tasks focus on developing and marking new trails in the area. 6

10 Mývatn Nature Reserve was established in 1974 to protect the areas landscape. geological formations and wildlife and to promote research for this purpose. Lake Mývatn and the river Laxá are listed as internationally important wetlands according to the Ramsar Convention. The ecosystem of the lake is unique. It derives its name from the profusion of midges in the area. Bird life is extremely diverse and more species of duck are believed to live around Lake Mývatn than anywhere else in the world. The natural environment of the area is very diverse and the landscape has a unique character, being formed by volcanic activity. Dimmuborgir, where our projects take place, is the remains of a lava pool formed when lava from Lúdentsborgir was dammed up as it flowed into Lake Mývatn. This project is run in partnership with the Soil Conservation Agency (Landgræðsla ríkisins) who are responsible for the management of the site. Jökulsárgljúfur National Park was created in 1973 to protect the Jökulságljúfur canyon and the land surrounding it. The Park now extends 30km north of the waterfall Dettifoss and covers 120 km². The Jökulsárgljúfur canyon is one of the largest and most impressive river canyons in Iceland. A wide range of plants grow in the shelter afforded by the rocks and cliffs in the National Park and approximately 230 species of plants have been recorded. Brushwood and heath are characteristic of the lower section of the canyon. The largest woodlands are found at Ásbyrgi though there are other areas in the Park. Volunteers have been involved in the ongoing trail maintenance programme in the Park for over 20 years. This summer our work will focus on two main sites. The first is on the west side of Dettifoss where parts of the trail are being rerouted and the second is in the woodland at Ásbyrgi where a new woodchip path is being built. To read the daily news from Iceland in English, visit the Iceland Review website: 7

11 Project location map Jökulsárgljúfur National Park Herðubreiðarlindir and Askja Mývatn Nature Reserve. Reykjavík. Keflavík Airport Skaftafell National Park Þórsmörk Fjallabak Nature Reserve Snæfellsjökull National park For more information about nature conservation in Iceland, visit The Environment and Food Agency (UST) website: 8

12 Camping in Iceland The volunteer teams stay in tents close to the project sites. These are usually on organised campsites where facilities are basic but include toilets, washing facilities and hot showers. The summer programme also includes some special wilderness camping projects and on these remote projects facilities are very basic. When the group arrives at the project site the first task is to set up the tents. It is very important that all volunteers bring a sturdy tent with them (unless you have made arrangements to hire one from BTCV). It is important that you bring the right equipment with you (please see the equipment checklist on page 24). This should include a warm sleeping bag and a karrimat or thermarest to provide insulation from the cold ground. At the camp we have large mess tents that serve as our shelter, kitchen, dining room and a place for the group to meet throughout the project. The teams share the responsibility for all domestic tasks and volunteers help with preparing food. A timber hut has been constructed at the Skaftafell basecamp for use in the evenings and for preparing food. The Work we do The working day Although work times may vary, the volunteer teams usually work between 35 and 40 hours each week. The working day is roughly 9.00am 5pm. Everyone is encouraged to work at their own pace. It can be hard work but there is always enough time to take a break or just stop to enjoy these amazing places. The group normally break for lunch and coffee breaks on the worksite, and returns to the camp at the end of the afternoon. How the projects are chosen - Every spring, sites are chosen following a series of meetings and site visits with reserve managers and staff. We take care to find suitable tasks for the volunteer groups. The environmental projects we choose are best suited to our working methods and would not be completed without the help of volunteers. 9 4

13 How the work is organised - Volunteer teams are usually made up from 5 to 12 people. They include a team leader who is often supported by an assistant who helps manage the project. Environment Agency staff work closely with the volunteer teams and oversee the work. The Agency organises tools, materials and equipment for the groups. What the tasks involve - No previous experience of this kind of work is necessary as Environment Agency staff and group leaders will provide all necessary training during the project. Local materials are used wherever possible and much of the work is completed with hand-tools. Footpath construction - Our main tasks, constructing and repairing footpaths, involve a lot of stone work. Much of this work centres on moving and positioning the rocks to improve drainage, though these tasks also include ground clearance work and a great deal of digging! The tools we rely on are mainly iron bars for rock moving, as well as picks and shovels for ground work (machines are however used to make the work easier whenever possible). This work takes our groups to some of the most beautiful and remote parts of the country. Other tasks include digging out the paths, resurfacing them with locally sourced gravel or woodchip and revegetating eroded areas with turf. Pages show a selection of tasks that volunteers are involved in. It is important to stress that all training will be provided Heritage projects - Volunteers are also involved in heritage conservation projects in the protected areas. These can include helping to repair old buildings or to conserve ruins. The aim of this work is to protect important cultural sites for their value as links to the country s past and as educational resources within the protected areas. Wilderness management This includes trail work and trail marking as well a variety of other tasks in remote protected areas. Volunteer groups are helping to manage some sites by removing invasive foreign plant species. In Skaftafell s, Morsárdalur valley, last summer the volunteers completed a total of 25 weeks of this work and progress has been considerable. Now that the technique has been finely tuned and the project and number of volunteers has grown, it is hoped that much more still can be achieved in It will take many years and much commitment from our teams, but the aim is to slowly restore the valley to its natural state. 10

14 Stone cross drain construction The procedure for construction is as follows: 1 - Dig a trench sufficiently large to take the side stones and the bottom stones. The drain should extend at least 500mm on either side of the path. 2 - Set the side stones in position, ensuring they butt neatly together with as even a top edge as possible. Large boulders will need to be levered into position using crowbars. They must be set solidly in the ground so there is no movement when they are trodden on. 3 - Pitch the bottom of the drain. Ensure the pitched stones extend sufficiently up against the side stones to make a strong, stable construction. Wedge further with smaller stones as necessary, leaving a smooth bottom to the drain which will not trap debris. 4 - Dig collecting and draining ditches as necessary. Cross drains that drop steeply from the path should have a boulder with a slab, called a splash plate, to protect the drain from scour. From: Footpaths; A practical handbook E.Agate (BTCV: ) 11

15 Boardwalk and bridge construction Boardwalks have the advantage that they can be constructed across a habitat without interfering with natural drainage patterns, and with little ground disturbance compared to other methods of construction. Boardwalks are usually constructed for either of the two following reasons, which in turn affect their design. a, To provide a safe path across otherwise impassable terrain such as deep marsh or alongside streams. Handrails may be needed for safety. b, To protect a fragile habitat, such as a bog, marsh, sand dune or woodland floor. The line and width of this type of boardwalk must be such that walkers are not temped off it. From: Footpaths; A practical handbook E.Agate (BTCV: ) 12

16 Leisure time The project locations in some of the most beautiful parts of Iceland mean that there is plenty of countryside close at hand. The programme is flexible and designed to include organised trips as well as unstructured free time for you to enjoy. Our work sites are the most popular hill walking areas in the country, and the long summer evenings and days off provide opportunities to explore them. There are a variety of other free time activities at the different project locations around the country. Reykjavík Most volunteers spend at least some time in the capital before and after the projects. Many visitors are surprised by how small the city is. Reykjavík is home to nearly 40% of the population (60% of Icelanders live in the Greater Reykjavík area). As the capital, it is the focus of business, communications, government administration, and education, social and health services. Horse riding This is available at some of our project locations. The Icelandic horse is special as it has five gates, the most popular being tölt (a four beat gate with light flowing movement, which is easy and comfortable to ride). The other four are walk, trot, gallop and pace. Whale watching - There are few other places in the world where you can find as many species of whales close to the shore. These include blue, fin, humpback, minke and sei whales as well as dolphins and killer whales. In 2003 WWF rated Iceland as one of the top 10 whale watching destinations in the world. Whale watching is popular with volunteers visiting the north east of Iceland (Jökulsárgljúfur and Mývatn groups). The Húsavík Whale Centre and museum is situated by the harbour. It is also possible to go whale watching from Reykjavík and Ólafsvík. Highland mountain huts All of our projects are planned with sightseeing in mind. Groups visiting the north of the country will have the opportunity to travel through the highlands on their return trip and spend one night in a mountain hut their. Several of the other groups will have the opportunity to stop over night at a hut in Fjallabak in the southern highlands on their return to Reykjavík. 13

17 Hill walking in Iceland Nature can be wild or even dangerous in Iceland, especially for those who are unaware of the conditions or not accustomed to travelling in uninhabited areas. You can help prevent accidents by being well prepared for each trip. ICE-SAR (Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue) offer the following guidelines for preparing for walking trips in Iceland: Choose your clothing and footwear with care. Note that equipment suitable for trips in other countries may not be suitable for Icelandic conditions. Choose your route carefully and let someone know your plans. Marked footpaths are a safe option for walkers. You should be able to use a map and compass. A GPS unit is advisable on longer trips. You should not go onto a glacier without both experience and knowledge of the special equipment required. Organised trips with experienced guides are the safest option. Read about conditions in the area you will be visiting and talk to people with local knowledge, such as Nature Wardens. Be especially careful near rock faces, cliffs and riverbanks. Check the weather forecast by phoning The emergency telephone number in Iceland is

18 Food and Drink The rich fishing grounds around Iceland are the country s most valuable natural resource. Marine products in fact account for 70% of Iceland s exports. Fish was traditionally the mainstay of the Icelandic diet and fresh fish can be had all year round. As well fish from the North Atlantic, wild salmon and trout is available during the summer months. The extensive range of Icelandic dairy products means that every possible taste is catered for. Still popular today are the centuries-old specialities skyr and mysa (whey). Classed as a fresh cheese, skyr is made from skimmed milk and is akin to yoghurt and the German quark. Whey is a by-product in the making of skyr and is used in the pickling of slátur. Icelanders grow a lot of garden vegetables (e.g. rhubarb, cabbage, cauliflower and potatoes). A wide variety of fresh vegetables and fruit are imported, and there is a wide choice all year round. In the autumn, Icelanders like to gather wild berries (mainly crowberries and blueberries) which are eaten fresh or used to make jams and juices. Geothermal energy is used to heat greenhouses for growing cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers and mushrooms as well as flowers. A wide variety of meats including lamb, pork and beef are available as well as limited amounts of horse meat and reindeer. Importation of foreign produce is strictly regulated. Sheep breeding in Iceland goes back to the time of the settlement. Traditional Icelandic food has its origins in the limited preserving possibilities that Icelanders had to cope with in past centuries. To make the food last throughout the winter it was processed in certain ways, which made it taste so unique. The meat was smoked, salted and pickled or allowed to stand in whey for 3-4 months. The fish was dried hanged salted and smoked. Almost everything from the animal was used. A few examples of the delicacies made from the Icelandic sheep are blood and liver pudding, singed sheep heads, smoked lamb and ram testicles! From - Iceland Information Guide, 2003 (16 th Edn., Heimur) 15

19 Food at the camp Much of the food that is served on the camps will be familiar to you, but the menu will also include a lot of delicious Icelandic style food for you to try. At the start of a typical work day, the team will have breakfast together at the camp. This might include, toast, cereals, yoghurt, fruit juice, tea and coffee. Groups take packed lunches to the work site with sandwiches and fresh fruit. At work, the group takes a coffee break midmorning and afternoon. We have our main meal in the evening, which might include traditional dishes of Icelandic lamb or fish, as well as a vegetarian alternative. There will be an opportunity to eat out during you stay in Iceland, when the group is in Reykjavík and possibly on the days off in some of the project locations. At the base camp the domestic duties are shared and the group is often split into small teams for preparing food and helping with cleaning. The daily tasks include preparing breakfast, washing up and helping to prepare the evening meal. It is The Environment Agency s policy to source supplies for the projects locally wherever possible. Special dietary requirements Because of the remote locations of many of the projects, most of the food supplies are organised before the group s arrival. It is therefore important that you let us know before the project if you have any special dietary requirements. If you require vegetarian or vegan food, or if you have any food allergies please let your project organisers know. Alcohol - Like other Nordic countries, Iceland has strict rules concerning the consumption and purchase of alcohol. The legal drinking age is 20. All alcoholic drinks are very expensive and wines, spirits and beers with over 2.2% alcohol are sold through state controlled outlets, ATVR shops. Environment Agency volunteers are not allowed to consume alcohol during working hours. 16

20 Money The Icelandic currency is the króna (abbreviated kr.). Bank notes are issued in denominations of 500, 1000, 2000 & 5000 kr. The coins in circulation are 100, 50, 10, 5 & 1. Foreign exchange It is possible to exchange money in the Arrivals Hall at Keflavík Airport (The Change Group Iceland is open 24 hours). Keep all your exchange receipts, as you may need to produce them when changing krónur back. At the airport it is possible to change travellers cheques and you can also change them at banks and major hotels and even some restaurants and travel bureaux There are also cash machines in the arrivals area and in main towns. However, please be aware that our work often takes us quite a long way from these places so we recommend that you use the opportunity to change money or obtain cash that you require when we are travelling through the major towns. Please exchange the money you require at the start of the project before meeting the group at the pickup point to save time. Credit and Debit cards - are used widely in Iceland throughout the country. Almost everything can be paid for using cards. The main debit cards used are; Electron, Maestro and EDC which can also be used at ATMs. Visa and MasterCard are the major cards in Iceland. (If you are unsure, please check with you bank before you travel). Though we are often asked, it is extremely difficult for us to suggest how much spending money you should bring with you. You will only really need money for things like the days off, drinks, eating out, souvenirs and for some additional excursions. In the past volunteers have changed approximately 5-10 thousand krónur when they arrived in Iceland and found that this was sufficient for at least the first part of the project. This meant they didn t have to carry large amounts of cash with them and they could obtain more if and when they needed it. 17

21 Price guide for 2004:* ISK EUR GBP Accommodation: Youth Hostel (members / per night ) 1, Hotel (per night) 3, Campsite (per night) Food and drink: Coffee or tea (Café price) Chocolate bar (eg. Snickers) Take away Sandwich Take away Hot Dog Take away Pizza ½ litre soft drink Eating out Breakfast (average) 800 1, Eating out Lunch (average) 1,000 2, Eating out Dinner (average) 1,500 4, Alcohol: ½ litre Beer (bar price) ½ litre Beer (alcohol store price) Bottle of wine (alcohol store price) 1, Bottle of wine (Restaurant price) 2, Activities and trips: Swimming pool Horse riding 2, Whale watching (from Húsavík) 3, Other: Postage (Europe, 20g) Postage (Outside Europe, 20g) Camera film (24 exp. 35mm) Cigarettes The prices listed here are a rough guide compiled by Environment Agency staff. Foreign exchange rates were calculated February For up to date rates visit the Expedia.com currency converter : 18

22 Travelling in Iceland Many of our volunteers travel in Iceland before or after the project as there are many amazing places to see and explore. It is important to be on time at the pick up point in Reykjavik at the sart of the project. As many of the groups have long journeys on from the pick upo point (in some cases flights to Akureyri to catch) they may not be able to wait for late arrivals. Transport There are no trains in Iceland! However, there is an extensive bus service covering the whole country and it is relatively easy, to get around. It is possible to buy a full circle bus pass that allows you to travel around Iceland on Road No. 1. Car hire is expensive but if travelling in a group it may work out economical to rent a car. Travellers in the uninhabited highland interior must have well equipped four wheel drive vehicles as services and assistance are simply not at hand if any mishaps occur. The domestic airline Air Iceland Flugfélag Íslands operates daily services from Reykjavík Airport to towns throughout the country. Accommodation This can be expensive in Iceland, however there are a number of youth hostels and at some farms, Bed and Breakfast is available as cheaper options. Of course if you haven t had enough of camping already on the project there is also that option. It is very important that our volunteers follow the rules for camping in Iceland (outside of designated campsites). Camping with no more than three tents is allowed on uncultivated ground for a single night, unless the landowner has posted a notice to the contrary. Campers should always use designated campsites where they do exist. Do not camp close to farms without permission. Further information Bus services BSÍ information: Domestic flights Air Iceland: Youth Hostels: 19

23 Iceland s Weather How cold will it be?- In Iceland there is a prevailing maritime climate with mild winters, cool summers and high humidity. Though the name of the country invokes a rather chilly image, winters are relatively mild with an average temperature more than 15 C warmer than other countries at the same latitude (63-67 N). An important characteristic of Icelandic weather is how quickly it changes. It is also extremely windy and storms are common in the winter time, however such weather is possible during any month. Precipitation is regular but usually not very heavy. Changes in the weather can be very rapid and it is often said that in Iceland a four seasons in one day climate prevails. Visitors should be sure that their clothing and equipment can cope with the full range of Icelandic weather. Temperatures in July can span from 0 C to C in the north east of the country. In Reykjavík however the temperatures are much more even, rarely reaching 20 C. From the Director of the Icelandic Meteorological Office, Temperatures in 2004 ( C)* Reykjavík Akureyri Average Highest Lowest Average Highest Lowest May June July August September * figures from the Icelandic metrological Office Visit their website to see this week s weather forecast: 20

24 Daylight in summer When people think of Iceland, they imagine it being cold and dark. It is true that in the winter it can get rather dark but it is more than made up for by the summer. From the end of May to the beginning of August, there are nearly 24 hours of perpetual daylight in Reykjavik, while in the northern part of the country the sun barely sets at all. Some people find that this upsets their sleeping patterns. The summer tourist season is from late May to early September. During the first half of this period the sun stays above the horizon for almost 24 hours and the interplay of light and shadows on mountains, lava fields and glaciers yield an ever changing landscape. Daylight times (2004). Reykjavík Akureyri Sunrise Sunset Sunrise Sunset May 6 th 04:42 22:09 04:12 22:09 June 3 rd 03:17 23:37 02:24 00:00 June 21 st (longest) 02:54 00:05* 01:26 01:02 July 1 st 03:06 23:56 01:59 00:30 August 5 th 04:48 22:17 04:18 22:16 September 2 nd 06:14 20:39 05:53 20:29 December 21 (shortest) 11:22 15:30 11:38 14:44 *- Next day. Times from Around Iceland

25 The Northern Lights The aurora borealis (or northern lights) is caused by electrically charged particles emitted by the sun and interacting with the earth s magnetic field. Some particles (chiefly electrons) are accelerated towards the earth and guided towards two zones, one near the north pole, the other near the south pole. Colliding with the upper atmosphere at very great speeds, the particles cause the air to glow in the beautiful colours of the aurora. Iceland is in the middle of the aurora zone where the phenomenon is most frequently seen. However the intensity and the frequency of the lights is extremely variable. In Iceland the aurora is most frequently seen shortly before midnight, from about 21:00 to 01:00 (GMT). The brightest aurora are usually seen in the spring and autumn rather than midwinter. The aurora may be visible from late August but their appearance can never be guaranteed. From Visitor s Guide, 2003 (Netid info) Vegetation and Wildlife in Iceland Nature in Iceland reflects the country s location as an island in the upper reaches of the North Atlantic bordering the Arctic Circle. Most regions in the country have a typical oceanic climate, but warm ocean currents effectively combat the harsh effects of the Arctic cold, though it is never far away. Vegetation This is typical for northerly countries as well as mountainous areas in southern Europe. The majority of the almost 500 species of flowering plants growing wild in Iceland have their origins in Europe. Forests - For thousands of years downy birch thrived in Iceland s lowlands and it is estimated that before settlement birch forests dominated the dry lowlands to an elevation of 400m (above sea level), which amounts to about approximately 24% of the country. After settlement around 1000 AD, the vegetation changed significantly as inhabitants of this new harsh environment cleared forests for fuel and agriculture. 22

26 At present forests cover about 1% of the country. The effects of the forest depletion are varied, the most serious being soil erosion as in places, soil is simply blown out to sea. Birds Between species of birds have been found in Iceland but only about 75 species are regularly breeding in the country. Iceland is particularly rich in seabirds, waders and wildfowl and possibly the most famous and most photographed bird is the Puffin. By late summer there are over 10 million Puffins in Iceland. Although most birds in Iceland are of European origin, the island s mid-atlantic position means it is home to three North American species: Great Northern Diver, Harlequin Duck and Barrow s Goldeneye, which bread nowhere else in Europe. Many of the country s birds are protected by law, including the rare White-tailed Eagle, Gyr Falcon and Grey Phalarope. Land mammals The Arctic fox is the only native land mammal in Iceland. The long-tailed field mouse arrived with the original settles, and rats have always found their way to Iceland on ships. Reindeer were imported in the 18 th century and released in several places, but today they stay in the east. Mink were imported for fur farms during the first part of the 20th century, but many escaped and now breed in the wild. Sea mammals Grey seals and Harbour seal live around Iceland and about 15 species of Whales and dolphins are found around the island. The most common species are the Minke whale, White beaked dolphin and common porpoise. These species are often spotted off the coast, sometimes just a short distance from land. The Blue whale, the largest whale in the world is frequently spotted of the western coast. Fish There are over 300 species of fish in the sea around Iceland and about 10% of these have an economic significance to the country. Cod, herring and capelin are the three most important fish with a total catch of almost 2 million tonnes each year. Other creatures There are relatively few insect species in Iceland. Ants, termites and various types of butterflies have no representatives in Iceland. There are also no wild frogs or reptiles in Iceland. From Around Iceland 2002, (Heimur) 23

27 Equipment checklist When packing for your trip to Iceland, please remember that the weather is extremely changeable; you may find yourself working in cold conditions one day and hot sun the next. It is essential that you bring adequate protection against the sun and plenty of extra layers of clothing in case it is cold. It is important to remember that our teams work in isolated places so you should bring everything you think you will need for the duration of the project, as it may not be possible to get additional equipment during the project. Tent You must bring a good quality tent that is sturdy enough to cope with Iceland s unpredictable weather. This can include strong winds, rain showers or even snow! A good supply of sturdy tent pegs is recommended as the ground on the campsites is often stony. notes Ground sheet If you are in any doubt about the how waterproof the bottom of your tent is, we recommend that you bring an additional ground sheet. (This is highly recommended in Fjallabak Nature Reserve and on wilderness projects where there is little vegetation, as it will protect your tent from the stony ground). Sleeping bag Even in midsummer the nights are cold and damp and occasionally with frost. This means that you will need a good quality three season sleeping bag. In the past some volunteers have brought fleece blankets or sleeping bag liners to make the nights more comfortable. Karrimat (or thermarest) are essential as they insulation from the cold and sometimes wet ground and provide welcome comfort. 24

28 Clothing Be prepared! Almost any weather is possible! Bring warm clothes and different layers. A warm hat and gloves are important and thermal underwear is recommended. Bring old, comfortable clothes for work. But remember jeans are not good for this, as they will not keep you warm if they get wet. notes Work boots - Steel toe cap work boots, walking boots and Wellingtons could all be useful during the project but for most people, limited packing space in their rucksacks, means that a choice has to be made. The main issues here are safety and comfort. Comfortable sturdy walking boots are essential for everyone working on the Iceland projects. All the holiday will involve plenty of walking so please don t bring anything new out of the box that hasn t been worn in. If you have protective work boots they are ideal for the work but quite often these are not suitable for hill walking so you must bring others as well. Waterproofs (jacket and trousers) These must be good quality. It is important to remember however, that you must bring something that you are happy to work in. Expensive Gore-Tex style clothing is fine for leisure activities but you may want to bring an alternative and save them from the worksite. Thick plastic type waterproofs are the best kind for working in. Daypack Important for workdays to carry lunch and personal equipment and is useful on days off. Lunchbox and water bottle/thermos flask Sunhat, high factor sun cream and lip salve and sunglasses. It is very important to be protected from the sun. 25

29 Additional recommendations: notes Warm gloves - Work gloves will be provided but warm (or ski type) gloves may be very useful. Torch - (only necessary from late July as the nights start to become dark.) Insect repellent (only necessary in Mývatn area) Towel and swimming costume Iceland has many heated outdoor pools. Camera and film plus extra batteries if you need a particular type. Photographic equipment is very expensive in Iceland. Books, binoculars, discman, games and other things for your own entertainment during free time. Toiletries - You will need to bring your own soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrush etc. As it may not be possible to get the brands you are used to using in Iceland so stock up before you leave, especially with things like contact lens cleaners. Medication - Bring sufficient supplies of any prescribed medication to last you the duration of your holiday. In accordance with The Environmental Agency s Health and Safety Policy volunteers must administer things like painkillers themselves so bring your own supplies. If you have any questions about the equipment please don t hesitate to contact us: volunteer@ust.is 26

30 Health and Safety The Environment Agency strongly recommends all volunteers to be inoculated against tetanus. If you are a European citizen, it is very important that you bring a completed E111 form with you in order to avoid paying for any necessary medical treatment (Iceland is within the European Economic Area). Remember to bring sufficient supplies of any prescribed medication to last the duration of the project. In accordance with our Health and Safety Policy volunteers must administer things like pain killers themselves, so you should bring your own supplies. Although there is relatively little crime in Iceland, we strongly recommend that you keep valuable belongings with you at all times. As they cannot be secured on the campsite when left unattended in the tents. The Environment Agency does it s utmost to ensure that all projects operate within strict health and safety guidelines. However, if you are uneasy with any aspect of health and safety on the project, please talk to the group leader or field staff responsible for the project. Edited by Chas Goemans and Sarah Day Produced By Umhverfisstofnun and BTCV Iceland (website edition, 2005) 27

31 The conservation volunteer programme has been run in partnership with BTCV since it began more than twenty years ago. Volunteer groups started coming to Iceland from Britain in the late 1970s and regular projects were established in Skaftafell and Jökulsárgljúfur National Parks during the 1980s. The programme was formalised in 1993 with the establishment of a seasonal volunteer co-ordinator in Iceland and in 1999, the number of volunteer groups increased with the establishment of several new projects. In 2000, BTCV Ísland was set up to help manage the growing programme and to develop the role of conservation volunteers in Iceland. In 2003, the Environment and Food Agency of Iceland (Umhverfisstofnun) took over responsibility for the management of the country s protected areas and the international volunteer programme is now organised by the Agency s Nature Conservation Department. The programme plays an important role in the practical management of the country s national parks and nature reserves. Pictures: Front cover Volunteer group at Jökulsárgljúfur National Park Front inside Team working at Dettifoss Below right Bridge construction, Snæfellsjökull National Park Below left Stone drain construction, Skaftafell National Park Back cover Staff and volunteers at Snæfellsjökull National Park

32 The international volunteer programme Volunteers are an important part of the management of Iceland s protected areas. Each summer, volunteer groups help to manage the upland trail networks in Skaftafell and Jökulsárgljúfur National Parks as part of an ongoing maintenance programme. Teams are now also working in Snæfellsjökull National Park, helping to develop new trails in the area. Groups also work in the Dimmuborgir lava formations in Mývatn, improving access and safety for visitors. Recently volunteers have begun work in Fjallabak Nature Reserve in the southern highlands, repairing and marking trails to help protect the area s fragile vegetation. Umhverfisstofnun, The Environment and Food Agency of Iceland Sudurlandsbraut 24, 108 Reykjavik, Iceland Tel , Fax umhverfisstofnun@ust.is