of the reserve. Re-forestation Skálanes has an ambitious re-forestation plan covering 111 ha of the site. The tree species used in these plantings are predominantly birch, rowan and willow all of which are Icelandic native species. Various planting methods are being trialed and monitored so that planting efforts are well targeted and efficient. One of the largest areas of planting is located in an area where many fragments of relic woodland and associated ground flora remain. Supplementary planting in this area will hopefully accelerate the process of natural regeneration and encourage the remaining scrubby trees to expand into contiguous woodland. Lupin control In recent years there has been some debate surrounding the Nootka lupin (Lupinus nootkatensis) in Iceland. An introduced species used to combat soil erosion, lupin grows well on exposed, eroded soil areas however there is growing concern that in some places it is creeping away unchecked and out competing the native flora which consists of many delicate herbs, wild flowers, grasses and sedges. The lupin at Skálanes is being studied using various methods to help develop a landscape scale plan for the control and removal of this plant. It appears from direct observation within the reserve that there is a considerable loss of biodiversity in the areas that surround the lupin as it encroaches upon and out competes with other species. Stone wall construction Using a specification written by a Scottish volunteer from a previous student excursion, the Skálanes staff use stone from the surroundings to create boundary walls and walls for various structures. Sustainable agriculture The staff are increasingly looking at making Skálanes more sustainable and is therefore introducing low-impact agriculture to the area around the centre such as vegetable garden and rearing chickens and pigs. Monitoring & Survey Work Monitoring and survey work is an important part of the conservation work at Skálanes. There are a wide variety of bird and plant species on the reserve which staff and volunteers surveys and monitor each year. References Skálanes Nature & Heritage Centre www.skalanes.com Nature reserves Nature conservation in Iceland Protected areas established in 2005