PROJECT REPORT
ICELAND 2023SEER HILL
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT
Dearfriend,
Thanks to your support, a total of 108,955 trees were planted to restore 42.23 hectaresoflandinIceland.
Planting trees in areas that have been degraded or deforested helps the environment by accelerating and assuring the re-establishment of healthy forests. Through reforestation, the canopy is restored, ecosystems are made whole,andbiodiversitycanthrive.
None of this would be possible without you. On behalf of everyone at One Tree Planted,thankyou!
What follows is a report outlining the project you supported in Iceland. I hope youenjoyreadingitandtrulyfeeltheimpactyouhavemade.
OVERVIEW
The objective of this multi-year project in Iceland is to afforest a portion of the lowerslopesofSeerHill(Spákonufell)nearSkagaströnd,Iceland.Over40hectares have been successfully planted in 2023, in an area where about 100 hectares are deemed suitable for afforestation. By expanding forest cover in this area, the project aims to enrich recreational opportunities, promote biodiversity among wildlifeandplantspecies,andimprovetheecologicalhealthofnaturalresources.
TREES PLANTED
108,955
TREE SPECIES PLANTED
FAMILIES BENEFITED HECTARES REFORESTED
WOMEN INVOLVED
JOBS SUPPORTED
6 10 3
PEOPLE BENEFITED FROM TRAINING
4 10 3
42.23 ACRES REFORESTED
104.35
WILDLIFE SPECIES BENEFITED
TREE SPECIES PLANTED
A total of 42.23 hectares were dedicated to planting four native tree species: downy birch, Sitka spruce, lodgepole pine, and black cottonwood. These species werecarefullyselectedbasedontheirsuitabilitytotheecologicalconditionsofthe afforestation area, located on the lower slopes of Seer Hill (Spákonufell), where a total of 140 hectares are deemed plantable. The site preparation involved planting at a density of 2,000-2,500 seedlings per hectare, with certain areas undergoing sitepreparationbeforehand.
The chosen mix of birch, Sitka spruce, lodgepole pine and black cottonwood reflects the environmental factors of the site, characterized by cool summers and snowy winters. These conditions limited the choice of tree species initially, prioritizing those resilient to cold climates. However, as the forest matures and shelters begin to form, additional species can be introduced to enhance biodiversity and ecological resilience. This adaptive approach ensures that the afforestation effort not only addresses current environmental conditions, but also laysthefoundationforadiverseandsustainableforestecosysteminthefuture.
SPECIES PLANTED THROUGH THIS PROJECT
Downy birch (Betula pubescens)
Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis)
Lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta)
Black cottonwood (Populus trichocarpa)
TREE SPOTLIGHT: DOWNY BIRCH
Downy birch (Betula pubescens) is a deciduous tree native to various habitats across the Northern Hemisphere, including Europe, Asia, and North America. In Europe, its range extends from Scandinavia to the Mediterranean region. Typically growing to a height of 15 to 25 meters, though sometimes reaching up to 30 meters,thetree'sbarkhasadistinctivewhiteorpalegreycolorandpeeling,papery sheets. Its leaves are ovate or triangular, serrated along the edges, and possess a soft,downytextureunderneath,givingthetreeitsname.Duringautumn,itsfoliage turnsavibrantyellowbeforefalling.
This species plays a critical role in ecosystems by providing various ecosystem services and serving as valuable habitat for wildlife. Its extensive root system helps prevent soil erosion and enhances soil fertility, while its dense foliage provides shade and shelter for smaller plants and animals, contributing to biodiversity. Downy birch also supports a variety of wildlife species, with its seeds serving as vital food sources for birds such as siskins, redpolls, and crossbills, especially during winter. Additionally, the tree provides nesting sites for birds and habitatforinsects,furthersupportingthelocalecosystem.
Downy birch was selected as the primary tree species for this project, due to its suitability to the local climate and soil conditions. Its ability to tolerate cold temperatures and a wide range of soil types, including acidic soils common in Icelandic landscapes, makes it an ideal choice for establishing new forests in areas where vegetation cover has been depleted. As a pioneer species, downy birch plays a key role in initiating the process of natural regeneration of barren or disturbed areas, contributing to the restoration of ecosystem functions and enhancinglandscaperesilience.
WE HUMBLY EXPRESS OUR GRATITUDE TO THE DONORS THAT SUPPORTED THE PROJECT THROUGH ONE TREE PLANTED. THIS PROJECT WILL CREATE A VALUABLE RECREATIONAL AREA FOR THE CITIZENS IN THE AREA AND AND HAVE A MITIGATING EFFECT ON CLIMATE CHANGE BY SEQUESTERING CARBON.
YOUR IMPACT ON THE MAP
The Iceland 2023 - Seer Hill project supported the planting of 108,955 trees spanning 42.23 hectares of land adjacent to Skagaströnd in North Iceland. The significance of this endeavor extends beyond the immediate local sphere, profoundly impacting both the regional and global landscape. Locally, the afforestation effort promises to rejuvenate the natural environment, fostering biodiversity, mitigating soil erosion, and enhancing ecosystem services for the benefit of surrounding communities. Moreover, the project's implications will be felt on a global scale, contributing to the fight against climate change by sequestering carbon dioxide and safeguarding critical habitats. By establishing sustainable forest ecosystems, the Iceland 2023 - Seer Hill project exemplifies the potential of localized initiatives to affect positive change on a broader, global scale.
DOCUMENTING YOUR IMPACT
Throughauthenticandinformativestorytelling,wehelpdonorsrelatetothepeople who plant their trees and to the impact they're making for the planet. We share photos, videos, and updates from our global projects across our social media, website, and other media to create a personal connection to the incredible work happeningontheground.
PHOTOS FROM YOUR PROJECT
THE PROJECT IN SEER HILL IS VERY IMPORTANT FOR THE RESIDENTS OF THE MUNICIPALITY. THE OUTDOOR AREA WILL BE CHERISHED, AND IMPORTANT FOR THE PUBLIC HEALTH OF OUR RESIDENTS.
ECOLOGICAL BENEFITS
WildlifeandAgriculture: Theprojectholdspromisingbenefitsforbothwildlifeand agriculture. By introducing new forest habitats, the project aims to accommodate bird species adapted to woodland environments, thereby fostering increased biodiversity in the area over the coming years. These new habitats will not only provide shelter and improved living conditions for various bird species, but also offer benefits to nearby agriculture. The presence of forests can enhance microclimates, providing shelter for crops and animals, and improving growing conditions.
Biodiversity Enhancement: Significant portions of the project site in Iceland suffer from erosion and have been colonized by Nootka lupine, a plant with ecological benefits but potential invasiveness. Through strategic tree planting within these lupine-dominated areas, the project aims to facilitate ecological succession, gradually shading out the lupine and restoring native vegetation. This forestation effort will contribute to enhancing biodiversity by introducing tree species to an otherwise treeless landscape, thus enriching the overall biodiversity at the landscapelevel.
Ecological Services: One of the key ecological services provided by this project is increased carbon sequestration. While the estimated carbon sequestration rate of approximately3-5tonsofCO2equivalentsperhectareperyearmayseemmodest, it represents a significant contribution to mitigating climate change. By capturing carbon in both trees and soil, the project helps offset carbon emissions and contributestoglobaleffortstocombatclimatechange.
Riparian Health: The afforestation efforts in Iceland also hold benefits for riparian healthandwaterquality.Byreducingsurfacerunoffandslowingtheflowofwater, thenewlyplantedtreeshelpmitigateerosionandimprovewaterqualityinstreams and groundwater. Furthermore, the establishment of forests on hillsides contributes to soil stabilization, making the landscape more resistant to water erosion over time. These riparian health benefits not only enhance local ecosystems, but have positive implications for downstream water resources and aquatichabitats.
Overall, this project is poised to deliver a range of ecological benefits, from biodiversity enhancement to carbon sequestration and improved riparian health, making significant strides towards ecological restoration and sustainability in the region.
COMMUNITY BENEFITS
This project not only holds ecological significance, but it brings a multitude of benefits for the local community. By creating new forested areas, the project aims to enhance recreational opportunities, contribute to the local economy, and foster knowledgedisseminationwithinthecommunity.
Recreation: A primary objective of the project was to provide the local community with enhanced opportunities for outdoor recreation. The newly forested areas will serve as a recreational haven for residents of the Skagaströnd municipality, offering improved recreational value and a range of outdoor activities. Collaborativelyundertakenbybothlocalandgovernmentalforestassociations,the project has resulted in the creation of new trails suitable for hiking, horse riding, and mountain biking. By creating a new recreational area, the project not only enhancesthequalityoflifeforlocalresidents,butpromotespublichealthandwellbeing.
Economic Value: Beyond recreational benefits, the project holds significant economic value for the community. As the newly planted trees mature, they will offer future timber resources and other products such as mushrooms and berries, thereby generating economic opportunities for the community. Moreover, the implementationoftheprojecthasledtotheemploymentoflocalfamiliesfortasks like fencing, road building, and planting. This provides immediate income , and strengthens community ties, fostering a sense of ownership and stewardship over thenewlyforestedareas.
Knowledge Dissemination: This forestation work served as a platform for knowledge dissemination within the community. Prior to the commencement of planting, new individuals were trained in planting techniques and fertilization methods. This enhanced community members' skill sets while also fostering a deeper understanding of forestry practices and ecosystem management. Through hands-oninvolvementintheproject,communitymembersgainedvaluableinsights into sustainable land management practices, further empowering them to contributetoenvironmentalstewardshipeffortsintheregion.
In conclusion, the afforestation project in Skagaströnd, Iceland, delivers a myriad of benefits to the local community. From providing enhanced recreational opportunities and bolstering the local economy to fostering knowledge dissemination and community engagement, the project plays a pivotal role in enriching the lives of residents and promoting sustainable development. By harnessing the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders and leveraging the naturalresourcesoftheregion,theprojectenhancestheecologicallandscape andcommunitywell-beingforgenerationstocome.
U.N. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
THIS PROJECT CONTRIBUTED TO THE FOLLOWING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS:
WHAT ARE SDGS?
Sustainable development entails seeking out solutions that not only boost the economic outcomes of developing and poorer nations, but also work to limit (or eliminate)ourimpactontheplanet.Treesareonesuchsolution.
From creating jobs and reducing hunger to improving gender equality, cleaning air and water, absorbing carbon, protecting life on land and water, and more, planting treescanaddressall17sustainabledevelopmentgoals.
“This long-term afforestation project in Iceland aims to create a natural barrier against the harsh environmental conditions and establish a sustainable forest ecosystem. The new forest will not only mitigate the effects of erosion on the soil and improve water quality, but it will also provide a habitat for a variety of wildlife, adding diversity to the previously treeless landscape. This transformation will create a valuable recreational space for local residents, offeringopportunitiesforthemtoconnectwithnature.”
Meghan Danny Global Projects Support Specialist
Marika Luiati Project Manager Europe
