Iceland Volunteer Trail Teams

Umhverfisstofnun's (UST) Volunteer Trail Teams work on a variety of footpath construction and repair projects throughout the country, often staying in camps in these areas. Volunteers work in small teams and travel between the country's national parks and nature protection areas to complete a series of practical projects. The programme runs for 11 weeks and the teams usually spend one or two weeks in each location. No previous experience of this work is necessary, as all training will be provided, however enthusiasm and team spirit are essential. Due to the strenuous nature of our work, participants must be physically fit. Applicants should have some experience of practical work, camping and hill walking. The remote work sites and Iceland's notoriously changeable weather make the volunteer programme both an adventure and a challenge. Applicants must be over 20.

Trail Team volunteers pay their own travel costs to Iceland, but from their arrival at Skaftafell and during the programme, food, transport and accommodation (often camping) are provided. Participants cover their own costs during the holiday week.

Upland footpath repair work is a very important part of the management of Iceland's national parks and nature reserves. Trail repair tasks involve a lot of stonework and much of this work centres on moving and positioning rocks to construct drains and steps. Other tasks include ground clearance, drainage work and a great deal of digging! The tools that we rely on are mainly iron bars for rock moving and picks and shovels for ground work (machines are however used to make the work easier where possible). The Trail Teams are involved in all aspects of footpath work in the protected areas including bridge and boardwalk construction, way-marking and survey work.

Further information and an application form can be found on our website:
http://english.ust.is/of-interest/ConservationVolunteers/Projects/TrailTeam/