Gaddstaðaflatir Millennium Forest
Gaddstaðaflatir near Hella is home to Aldamótaskógurinn, a forest restoration area covering approximately 130 hectares. It is an example of successful afforestation and land restoration under challenging Icelandic conditions.
Land restoration
In 1985, the Icelandic Soil Conservation Service began restoring approximately 300 hectares of degraded land on Gaddstaðasandur in cooperation with local partners. Much of the landscape had suffered from extensive erosion and drifting sand. Lupine and lyme grass helped establish vegetation in parts of the area.
Forest development
The Rangárvallasýsla Forestry Association and its partners have worked to establish woodland despite difficult growing conditions. The developing forest demonstrates how sustained restoration can help vegetation return to previously eroded land.
Nature and heritage
Gaddstaðaflatir is an interesting place to observe the transformation of a degraded landscape. The area also has a long agricultural history associated with the former Gaddstaðir farm and the settlement of Hella.