REVEGETATION IN THE SOUTH-WEST OF ICELAND

a) Revegetation and erosion control using organic materials, b) Removal of old fences and c) Monitoring the survival and growth of tree plantations of former years. These tasks will be performed at several different locations in the South-west of the country. The South-west is part of the volcanic belt of Iceland, with vast lava fields and erodible volcanic soils. Additionally, the area has suffered from overgrazing of sheep for a long time. Consequently the ecological condition is rather poor and some areas have completely lost their top soil. Materials like horse manure, garden waste and the likes are the best revegetation means available. The results of the efforts made so far can already be seen at a number of sites in the South-west of the country. Documentation is available and as can be seen, the role of SEEDS volunteers has been substantial. No previous experience is necessary but the work is demanding and might require a good physical condition; it can at times be repetitive and demanding but always rewarding. 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. Volunteers need to be prepared for working outdoors in sometimes isolated sites. Be prepared to experience all kinds of weather and bring warm winter clothes as the tasks take place outside and it can get rather cold. Bring warm under-layers, waterproofs, walking shoes/boots, a good sleeping bag, hat, scarves and gloves. Keep in mind, our earth is getting warmer because of an overload of CO2 in the atmosphere. Also, green plants remove carbon from the atmosphere and capture it in biomass and soil. Revegetation is one of the most effective ways to fight off climate change, especially in a land so heavily eroded as Iceland.