{"id":16950,"date":"2026-05-13T08:46:32","date_gmt":"2026-05-13T08:46:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/en\/?post_type=artikler&#038;p=16950"},"modified":"2026-05-13T10:54:19","modified_gmt":"2026-05-13T10:54:19","slug":"a-helping-hand-for-a-landscape-under-pressure","status":"publish","type":"artikler","link":"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/en\/artikkel\/a-helping-hand-for-a-landscape-under-pressure\/","title":{"rendered":"A helping hand for a landscape under pressure"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\t\t<div class=\"wp-block-vnn-ingress\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"vnn__ingress\">\n\t\t\t\tWe travel more than ever before. We collect experiences, expand our horizons and return home a little richer each time. The places we visit often benefit too. <br>But there is a cost\u2014and in fragile landscapes, it shows. <br>On the island of Senja, this project is part of a growing trend: holidays that leave nature in better shape than they found it.<br>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t<\/div>\n\n\n<p>It often starts with something small. A narrow path through soft ground. A single footprint that avoids a puddle. Then another. And another. Before long, the trail has widened into a muddy scar, the vegetation gone, the water running freely downhill.<\/p>\n\n\n\t<div class=\"wp-block-vnn-gallery gallery-count-4\">\n\t\t<ul><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\">\t\t\t\t<figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-11.jpg\" data-size=\"2400x1596\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"block-gallery-count\">01<\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-11-2048x1362.jpg\" alt=\"Searching for insects in the mountain forest\u2014part of the nature monitoring \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-11.jpg\" data-caption=\"Searching for insects in the mountain forest\u2014part of the nature monitoring \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t<\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\">\t\t\t\t<figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-33.jpg\" data-size=\"1596x2400\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"block-gallery-count\">02<\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-33-768x1155.jpg\" alt=\"By sticking to trails with wood chips and coir mats, you help protect the terrain from wear and tear \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-33.jpg\" data-caption=\"By sticking to trails with wood chips and coir mats, you help protect the terrain from wear and tear \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t<\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\">\t\t\t\t<figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-31.jpg\" data-size=\"1596x2400\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"block-gallery-count\">03<\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-31-768x1155.jpg\" alt=\"Wet and muddy\u2014boardwalk building in practice \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-31.jpg\" data-caption=\"Wet and muddy\u2014boardwalk building in practice \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t<\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\">\t\t\t\t<figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-24.jpg\" data-size=\"1596x2400\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"block-gallery-count\">04<\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-24-768x1155.jpg\" alt=\"The work is physical and varied\u2014and the volunteers are out all day \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-24.jpg\" data-caption=\"The work is physical and varied\u2014and the volunteers are out all day \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t<\/li><\/ul><div class=\"vnn-gallery-figcaptions\"><figcaption>01: Searching for insects in the mountain forest\u2014part of the nature monitoring \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science<\/figcaption><figcaption>02: By sticking to trails with wood chips and coir mats, you help protect the terrain from wear and tear \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science<\/figcaption><figcaption>03: Wet and muddy\u2014boardwalk building in practice \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science<\/figcaption><figcaption>04: The work is physical and varied\u2014and the volunteers are out all day \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science<\/figcaption><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t\n\n\n<p>On Senja, this is no longer the exception.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Over the past decade, visitor numbers in <a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/en\/artikkel\/anderdalen-national-park-takes-you-into-silence\/\">\u00c5nderdalen National Park<\/a> have increased nearly tenfold. The same story plays out around Segla, where a single photograph helped turn a quiet fishing community into a global hiking destination. More people means more footsteps\u2014and in fragile Arctic landscapes, that leaves a mark.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>A Helping Hand <\/em>is a simple idea with surprisingly tangible results: if tourism leaves a footprint, why not give something back?<\/p>\n\n\n\t<div class=\"wp-block-vnn-gallery gallery-count-4\">\n\t\t<ul><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\">\t\t\t\t<figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-2.jpg\" data-size=\"2400x1596\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"block-gallery-count\">01<\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-2-2048x1362.jpg\" alt=\"At the transition from forest and mountains to fjords and coast on Senja \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-2.jpg\" data-caption=\"At the transition from forest and mountains to fjords and coast on Senja \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t<\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\">\t\t\t\t<figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-4.jpg\" data-size=\"1350x2400\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"block-gallery-count\">02<\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-4-768x1365.jpg\" alt=\"What birds are flying over there? Nature monitoring from a viewpoint \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-4.jpg\" data-caption=\"What birds are flying over there? Nature monitoring from a viewpoint \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t<\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\">\t\t\t\t<figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-67.jpg\" data-size=\"1597x2400\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"block-gallery-count\">03<\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-67-768x1154.jpg\" alt=\"A mountain trail marker gets a fresh coat of paint \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-67.jpg\" data-caption=\"A mountain trail marker gets a fresh coat of paint \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t<\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\">\t\t\t\t<figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-62.jpg\" data-size=\"1597x2400\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"block-gallery-count\">04<\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-62-768x1154.jpg\" alt=\"Wide views from the entrance to \u00c5nderdalen National Park \u00a9 Ann Cools\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-62.jpg\" data-caption=\"Wide views from the entrance to \u00c5nderdalen National Park \u00a9 Ann Cools\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t<\/li><\/ul><div class=\"vnn-gallery-figcaptions\"><figcaption>01: At the transition from forest and mountains to fjords and coast on Senja \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science<\/figcaption><figcaption>02: What birds are flying over there? Nature monitoring from a viewpoint \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science<\/figcaption><figcaption>03: A mountain trail marker gets a fresh coat of paint \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science<\/figcaption><figcaption>04: Wide views from the entrance to \u00c5nderdalen National Park \u00a9 Ann Cools<\/figcaption><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-from-visitors-to-volunteers\">From visitors to volunteers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The project, initiated by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rissa-cs.org\/home\">Rissa Citizen Science<\/a> in collaboration with local authorities, invites volunteers to step into the landscape\u2014not just as hikers, but as caretakers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For a few days in summer, participants trade panoramic views for practical work. They repair trails, restore wetlands, map biodiversity and help guide future visitors along more sustainable routes. It\u2019s hands-on, often muddy, occasionally demanding\u2014and deeply rewarding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And crucially, it\u2019s not about expertise. Motivation matters more than experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-when-a-trail-becomes-a-problem\">When a trail becomes a problem<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In the Arctic, nature recovers slowly. A worn path can take decades to heal\u2014if it heals at all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In dry terrain, repeated use strips away the thin layer of soil, exposing bare rock. In wetter areas, the damage is less visible at first, but more serious. Peat bogs\u2014those soft, sponge-like wetlands\u2014collapse under pressure. What begins as a narrow track can quickly spread into a wide, muddy field, as walkers instinctively step aside to avoid the worst patches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once water starts flowing freely through these damaged areas, erosion accelerates. Channels form, vegetation disappears, and the landscape begins to change in ways that are hard to reverse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is where <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rissa-cs.org\/event-details\/give-back-to-nature-on-senja\">A Helping Hand <\/a>comes in.<\/p>\n\n\n\t<div class=\"wp-block-vnn-gallery gallery-count-4\">\n\t\t<ul><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\">\t\t\t\t<figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-53.jpg\" data-size=\"2400x1597\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"block-gallery-count\">01<\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-53-2048x1363.jpg\" alt=\"Still waters run deep. \u00c5nderdalen National Park is a place for quiet reflection \u00a9 Ann Cools\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-53.jpg\" data-caption=\"Still waters run deep. \u00c5nderdalen National Park is a place for quiet reflection \u00a9 Ann Cools\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t<\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\">\t\t\t\t<figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-68.jpg\" data-size=\"1597x2400\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"block-gallery-count\">02<\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-68-768x1154.jpg\" alt=\"Along the \u201cSenja p\u00e5 langs\u201d route\u2014where trail marking is part of the project \u00a9 Ann Cools\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-68.jpg\" data-caption=\"Along the \u201cSenja p\u00e5 langs\u201d route\u2014where trail marking is part of the project \u00a9 Ann Cools\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t<\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\">\t\t\t\t<figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-59.jpg\" data-size=\"1597x2400\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"block-gallery-count\">03<\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-59-768x1154.jpg\" alt=\"Boardwalk across the bog\u2014a store of carbon we shouldn\u2019t disturb \u00a9 Ann Cools\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-59.jpg\" data-caption=\"Boardwalk across the bog\u2014a store of carbon we shouldn\u2019t disturb \u00a9 Ann Cools\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t<\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\">\t\t\t\t<figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-49.jpg\" data-size=\"1597x2400\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"block-gallery-count\">04<\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-49-768x1154.jpg\" alt=\"Coir mats are laid out to protect the soil, preventing the trail from widening and deepening with each spring thaw and hiking season \u00a9 Ann Cools\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-49.jpg\" data-caption=\"Coir mats are laid out to protect the soil, preventing the trail from widening and deepening with each spring thaw and hiking season \u00a9 Ann Cools\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t<\/li><\/ul><div class=\"vnn-gallery-figcaptions\"><figcaption>01: Still waters run deep. \u00c5nderdalen National Park is a place for quiet reflection \u00a9 Ann Cools<\/figcaption><figcaption>02: Along the \u201cSenja p\u00e5 langs\u201d route\u2014where trail marking is part of the project \u00a9 Ann Cools<\/figcaption><figcaption>03: Boardwalk across the bog\u2014a store of carbon we shouldn\u2019t disturb \u00a9 Ann Cools<\/figcaption><figcaption>04: Coir mats are laid out to protect the soil, preventing the trail from widening and deepening with each spring thaw and hiking season \u00a9 Ann Cools<\/figcaption><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-repairing-restoring-and-rethinking\">Repairing, restoring\u2014and rethinking<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>During the 2025 pilot, a small group of volunteers tackled a surprisingly wide range of tasks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some worked on damaged sections of trail, laying fibre mats and spreading woodchips to stabilise the ground. Others focused on wetlands, carefully slowing the flow of water so that mosses and plants could return over time. In places where the damage had gone too far, trails were closed entirely\u2014redirecting visitors before the landscape could deteriorate further.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>New paths were also created, marked with subtle precision through forest and hillside. The aim wasn\u2019t just to guide people, but to guide them well\u2014away from steep, wet or vulnerable terrain, and along routes that feel natural to follow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And in the wettest sections, boardwalks were built. Simple wooden structures, but vital ones. They lift hikers above the ground, protecting both the vegetation below and the experience itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-life-in-the-field\">Life in the field<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The workdays are physical, but the rhythm is far from relentless.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There\u2019s time for shared meals, for stories, for that particular kind of laughter that comes after a long day outdoors. In \u00c5nderdalen, participants camp close to nature, with the quiet hum of insects and the lingering Arctic light stretching well into the evening. Around Fjordg\u00e5rd, the setting is different\u2014steeper, sharper, with views that drop straight into the fjords\u2014but the sense of purpose is the same.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And then there are the small moments: a canoe trip after work, a conversation with a local biologist, a dinner where volunteers and locals sit down together. Not as tourists and hosts, but as people who have spent the week working towards the same goal.<\/p>\n\n\n\t<div class=\"wp-block-vnn-gallery gallery-count-4\">\n\t\t<ul><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\">\t\t\t\t<figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-6.jpg\" data-size=\"2400x1603\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"block-gallery-count\">01<\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-6-2048x1368.jpg\" alt=\"Insects\u2014fewer of them than before \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-6.jpg\" data-caption=\"Insects\u2014fewer of them than before \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t<\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\">\t\t\t\t<figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-7.jpg\" data-size=\"1800x2400\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"block-gallery-count\">02<\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-7-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A dragonfly under the magnifying glass \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-7.jpg\" data-caption=\"A dragonfly under the magnifying glass \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t<\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\">\t\t\t\t<figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-43.jpg\" data-size=\"1596x2400\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"block-gallery-count\">03<\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-43-768x1155.jpg\" alt=\"A red T shows the way\u2014The Norwegian Trekking Association is a partner in the A Helping Hand project \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-43.jpg\" data-caption=\"A red T shows the way\u2014The Norwegian Trekking Association is a partner in the A Helping Hand project \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t<\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\">\t\t\t\t<figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-60.jpg\" data-size=\"1597x2400\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"block-gallery-count\">04<\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-60-768x1154.jpg\" alt=\"Peat bogs shape much of Senja\u2019s inland landscape \u00a9 Ann Cools\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-60.jpg\" data-caption=\"Peat bogs shape much of Senja\u2019s inland landscape \u00a9 Ann Cools\" \/><span class=\"block-gallery-more\">Photogallery (5)<\/span>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t<\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item is-hidden\">\t\t\t\t<figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-56.jpg\" data-size=\"1597x2400\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"block-gallery-count\">05<\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-56-768x1154.jpg\" alt=\"Deep within the horsetail, small creatures monitored by the project \u00a9 Ann Cools\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-56.jpg\" data-caption=\"Deep within the horsetail, small creatures monitored by the project \u00a9 Ann Cools\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t<\/li><\/ul><div class=\"vnn-gallery-figcaptions\"><figcaption>01: Insects\u2014fewer of them than before \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science<\/figcaption><figcaption>02: A dragonfly under the magnifying glass \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science<\/figcaption><figcaption>03: A red T shows the way\u2014The Norwegian Trekking Association is a partner in the A Helping Hand project \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science<\/figcaption><figcaption>04: Peat bogs shape much of Senja\u2019s inland landscape \u00a9 Ann Cools<\/figcaption><figcaption>05: Deep within the horsetail, small creatures monitored by the project \u00a9 Ann Cools<\/figcaption><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-a-different-way-of-travelling\">A different way of travelling<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A Helping Hand sits somewhere between conservation and travel. You still experience Senja\u2014the mountains, the light, the vastness\u2014but you do so with a slightly different perspective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You notice where the ground is soft. Where the water flows. Where a shortcut might seem harmless, but isn\u2019t.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And perhaps that\u2019s the point.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Not everyone will sign up for a week of trail repair. But everyone who visits places like Senja leaves some kind of trace. The project simply makes that visible\u2014and offers a way to balance it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-want-to-take-part\">Want to take part?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Participation is open to anyone with a willingness to contribute and a reasonable level of fitness. No prior experience in restoration or fieldwork is required\u2014guidance is provided throughout.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The 2026 edition takes place at two locations on Senja, with slightly different durations and levels of comfort, but similar tasks and shared purpose. Have a look at a photo reportage from 2025 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rissa-cs.org\/post\/a-helping-hand-to-%C3%A5nderdalen-national-park-2025-a-photo-reportage\">here<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\t<div class=\"wp-block-vnn-gallery gallery-count-4\">\n\t\t<ul><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\">\t\t\t\t<figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-17.jpg\" data-size=\"2400x1596\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"block-gallery-count\">01<\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-17-2048x1362.jpg\" alt=\"The work keeps you warm in Senja\u2019s fresh summer air \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-17.jpg\" data-caption=\"The work keeps you warm in Senja\u2019s fresh summer air \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t<\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\">\t\t\t\t<figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-36.jpg\" data-size=\"1596x2400\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"block-gallery-count\">02<\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-36-768x1155.jpg\" alt=\"Wood chips protect the trail from wear and tear \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-36.jpg\" data-caption=\"Wood chips protect the trail from wear and tear \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t<\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\">\t\t\t\t<figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-48.jpg\" data-size=\"1597x2400\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"block-gallery-count\">03<\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-48-768x1154.jpg\" alt=\"Working hands in the making \u00a9 Ann Cools\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-48.jpg\" data-caption=\"Working hands in the making \u00a9 Ann Cools\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t<\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\">\t\t\t\t<figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-66.jpg\" data-size=\"1597x2400\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"block-gallery-count\">04<\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-66-768x1154.jpg\" alt=\"Lifting and teamwork during boardwalk construction \u00a9 Ann Cools\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Rissa-Citizen-Science-66.jpg\" data-caption=\"Lifting and teamwork during boardwalk construction \u00a9 Ann Cools\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t<\/li><\/ul><div class=\"vnn-gallery-figcaptions\"><figcaption>01: The work keeps you warm in Senja\u2019s fresh summer air \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science<\/figcaption><figcaption>02: Wood chips protect the trail from wear and tear \u00a9 Rissa Citizen Science<\/figcaption><figcaption>03: Working hands in the making \u00a9 Ann Cools<\/figcaption><figcaption>04: Lifting and teamwork during boardwalk construction \u00a9 Ann Cools<\/figcaption><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t\n\n\n\t\t<div class=\"is-questions-closed wp-block-vnn-faq-group\">\n\t\t\t<h2 class=\"vnn-faq__title\">A helping hand &#8211; the practical questions<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-vnn-faq\"><h3 class=\"vnn-faq__question\"><button type=\"button\">What kind of work will you do on Senja?<\/button><\/h3><p class=\"vnn-faq__answer\">The work focuses on repairing and protecting nature affected by increasing visitor numbers. Typical tasks include restoring hiking trails, stabilising eroded ground, building boardwalks in wet areas, and closing or rerouting paths that have been damaged beyond repair. Volunteers may also contribute to simple biodiversity mapping, depending on the group\u2019s interests and expertise. All work is guided by local experts, and no prior experience is required.<\/p><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-vnn-faq\"><h3 class=\"vnn-faq__question\"><button type=\"button\">When do the volunteering weeks take place?<\/button><\/h3><p class=\"vnn-faq__answer\">A Helping Hand takes place in late July and early August, when conditions in the Arctic are at their most accessible. In 2026, the programme runs from 26 July to 2 August in \u00c5nderdalen National Park, and from 30 July to 2 August in Fjordg\u00e5rd\/Segla. Exact dates and updates are published on the organiser\u2019s website.<\/p><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-vnn-faq\"><h3 class=\"vnn-faq__question\"><button type=\"button\">I\u2019ve never done anything like this before\u2014will that be a problem?<\/button><\/h3><p class=\"vnn-faq__answer\">Not at all. No previous experience in conservation or outdoor work is required. The project is designed to be inclusive, and all participants receive guidance from experienced team leaders throughout the week.<br>What matters most is your motivation and willingness to contribute. As long as you\u2019re comfortable spending full days outdoors and taking part in physical tasks, you\u2019ll fit right in.<\/p><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-vnn-faq\"><h3 class=\"vnn-faq__question\"><button type=\"button\">How physically demanding is the work?<\/button><\/h3><p class=\"vnn-faq__answer\">The work can be physically demanding at times. Tasks may involve hiking in steep terrain, carrying materials, and working outdoors for several hours a day. That said, the pace is manageable, with regular breaks and a strong focus on teamwork. You don\u2019t need to be an athlete, but you should be comfortable with full days outside in varied weather conditions.<\/p><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-vnn-faq\"><h3 class=\"vnn-faq__question\"><button type=\"button\">Is it all work and no fun?<\/button><\/h3><p class=\"vnn-faq__answer\">Not at all. While the days involve meaningful, hands-on work, there\u2019s plenty of time to unwind and enjoy the surroundings. Shared meals, good conversations and small adventures\u2014like a swim, a paddle or an evening walk\u2014are all part of the experience.<br>The social side of the project is just as important as the work itself, and many participants leave with new friendships as well as a sense of having made a real difference.<\/p><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-vnn-faq\"><h3 class=\"vnn-faq__question\"><button type=\"button\">Do I need to bring special equipment?<\/button><\/h3><p class=\"vnn-faq__answer\">You don\u2019t need any specialised tools\u2014these are provided on site. However, you should bring suitable outdoor clothing and personal gear for Arctic summer conditions, including waterproof layers, warm clothing and sturdy footwear. If you are joining the \u00c5nderdalen site, you will also need camping equipment such as a tent, sleeping bag and cooking gear. A detailed packing list is shared before arrival.<\/p><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-vnn-faq\"><h3 class=\"vnn-faq__question\"><button type=\"button\">Where can I find more information about &#8220;A Helping Hand&#8221;?<\/button><\/h3><p class=\"vnn-faq__answer\">For full details about the programme, application process and practical information, visit Rissa Citizen Science.<br>This is where you can express your interest, learn more about the different sites, and stay updated on any changes to the project.<\/p><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-vnn-faq\"><h3 class=\"vnn-faq__question\"><button type=\"button\">Where do I sign up for &#8220;A Helping Hand&#8221;?<\/button><\/h3><p class=\"vnn-faq__answer\">On Rissa Citizen Science&#8217;s website, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rissa-cs.org\/event-details\/give-back-to-nature-on-senja\">you can sign up directly<\/a>. <\/p><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-vnn-faq\"><h3 class=\"vnn-faq__question\"><button type=\"button\">Where do I learn more about travelling to Senja?<\/button><\/h3><p class=\"vnn-faq__answer\">For travel inspiration, local tips and practical information about the island, visit Visit Senja Region.<br><br>Here you\u2019ll find ideas on what to see and do before or after your stay, as well as useful information to help you plan your trip.<\/p><\/div>\n\n\n\t\t<\/div>\n\n\n<p><em>This article is a sum-up of information provided by Rissa Citizen Science including their recruitment page and the report from 2025. AI was used to structure the information &#8211; and then both Rissa Citizen Science and Arctic Norway have proof-read it. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-grid wp-container-core-group-is-layout-9649a0d9 wp-block-group-is-layout-grid\"><div class=\"t2-featured-single-post t2-featured-content is-post-type-artikler todo-activities todo-attractions todo-beautiful-drives todo-coastal-culture todo-culture-and-history todo-hiking todo-hiking-trips todo-natural-highlights todo-sapmi-culture todo-suggested-routes facilities-family-friendly facilities-sami facilities-sustainability season-autumn season-spring season-summer season-winter region-senja malgrupper-heritage-explorer malgrupper-leave-no-tracer malgrupper-local-insider malgrupper-nature-lover malgrupper-slow-traveller wp-block-t2-featured-single-post\">\n\t\t<div class=\"default-card wp-block-t2-wrapper\">\n<a class=\"t2-post-link wp-block-t2-post-link\" href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/en\/artikkel\/venture-around-hidden-senja-island-at-a-leisurely-pace\/\">\n<div class=\"t2-post-dynamic-part is-source-filter filter-default_card wp-block-t2-post-dynamic-part\">\n\t\t<figure style=\"--t2-focal-point: 50% 50%;\" class=\"t2-post-featured-image has-image-ratio-16-9 wp-block-t2-post-dynamic-part\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Midnight-Sun-Lake-Senja-Steffen-Fossbakk-768x480.jpg\" class=\"attachment-medium_large size-medium_large\" alt=\"\" \/><\/figure>\n\t\t<div class=\"card-content\">\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<div class=\"card-region\">\n\t\t\t\tSenja\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<h2>Venture Around Hidden Senja Island at a Leisurely Pace<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<div class=\"card-activities\">\n\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 640 512\" height=\"24\" width=\"24\" class=\"t2-icon t2-icon-activites\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M625.941 293.823L421.823 497.941c-18.746 18.746-49.138 18.745-67.882 0l-.36-.36L592 259.882 331.397 0h48.721a48 48 0 0 1 33.941 14.059l211.882 211.882c18.745 18.745 18.745 49.137 0 67.882zm-128 0L293.823 497.941C284.451 507.314 272.166 512 259.882 512c-12.284 0-24.569-4.686-33.941-14.059L14.059 286.059A48 48 0 0 1 0 252.118V48C0 21.49 21.49 0 48 0h204.118a47.998 47.998 0 0 1 33.941 14.059l211.882 211.882c18.745 18.745 18.745 49.137 0 67.882zM464 259.882L252.118 48H48v204.118l211.886 211.878L464 259.882zM144 96c-26.51 0-48 21.49-48 48s21.49 48 48 48 48-21.49 48-48-21.49-48-48-48z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\tBeautiful drives\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"t2-featured-single-post t2-featured-content is-post-type-artikler todo-activities todo-hiking todo-hiking-trips facilities-sustainability season-autumn season-summer region-senja malgrupper-heritage-explorer malgrupper-nature-lover wp-block-t2-featured-single-post\">\n\t\t<div class=\"default-card wp-block-t2-wrapper\">\n<a class=\"t2-post-link wp-block-t2-post-link\" href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/en\/artikkel\/16-hikes-on-senja-island-offer-endless-beauty\/\">\n<div class=\"t2-post-dynamic-part is-source-filter filter-default_card wp-block-t2-post-dynamic-part\">\n\t\t<figure style=\"--t2-focal-point: 50% 50%;\" class=\"t2-post-featured-image has-image-ratio-16-9 wp-block-t2-post-dynamic-part\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"541\" src=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/pexels-tobias-bjorkli-4976397-768x541.jpg\" class=\"attachment-medium_large size-medium_large\" alt=\"\" \/><\/figure>\n\t\t<div class=\"card-content\">\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<div class=\"card-region\">\n\t\t\t\tSenja\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<h2>16 hikes on Senja Island offer endless beauty<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<div class=\"card-activities\">\n\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 640 512\" height=\"24\" width=\"24\" class=\"t2-icon t2-icon-activites\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M625.941 293.823L421.823 497.941c-18.746 18.746-49.138 18.745-67.882 0l-.36-.36L592 259.882 331.397 0h48.721a48 48 0 0 1 33.941 14.059l211.882 211.882c18.745 18.745 18.745 49.137 0 67.882zm-128 0L293.823 497.941C284.451 507.314 272.166 512 259.882 512c-12.284 0-24.569-4.686-33.941-14.059L14.059 286.059A48 48 0 0 1 0 252.118V48C0 21.49 21.49 0 48 0h204.118a47.998 47.998 0 0 1 33.941 14.059l211.882 211.882c18.745 18.745 18.745 49.137 0 67.882zM464 259.882L252.118 48H48v204.118l211.886 211.878L464 259.882zM144 96c-26.51 0-48 21.49-48 48s21.49 48 48 48 48-21.49 48-48-21.49-48-48-48z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\tHiking trips\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"t2-featured-single-post t2-featured-content is-post-type-artikler todo-activities todo-attractions todo-beautiful-drives todo-hiking todo-hiking-trips todo-natural-highlights todo-national-scenic-routes todo-suggested-routes facilities-sustainable-travel season-autumn region-senja malgrupper-nature-lover malgrupper-outdoor-adventure wp-block-t2-featured-single-post\">\n\t\t<div class=\"default-card wp-block-t2-wrapper\">\n<a class=\"t2-post-link wp-block-t2-post-link\" href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/en\/artikkel\/the-senja-autumn-is-a-drama-of-colours-and-weather\/\">\n<div class=\"t2-post-dynamic-part is-source-filter filter-default_card wp-block-t2-post-dynamic-part\">\n\t\t<figure style=\"--t2-focal-point: 50% 50%;\" class=\"t2-post-featured-image has-image-ratio-16-9 wp-block-t2-post-dynamic-part\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/HikingSegl_VisitSenjaRegion-768x576.jpg\" class=\"attachment-medium_large size-medium_large\" alt=\"\" \/><\/figure>\n\t\t<div class=\"card-content\">\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<div class=\"card-region\">\n\t\t\t\tSenja\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<h2>The Senja autumn is a drama of colours and weather<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<div class=\"card-activities\">\n\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 640 512\" height=\"24\" width=\"24\" class=\"t2-icon t2-icon-activites\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M625.941 293.823L421.823 497.941c-18.746 18.746-49.138 18.745-67.882 0l-.36-.36L592 259.882 331.397 0h48.721a48 48 0 0 1 33.941 14.059l211.882 211.882c18.745 18.745 18.745 49.137 0 67.882zm-128 0L293.823 497.941C284.451 507.314 272.166 512 259.882 512c-12.284 0-24.569-4.686-33.941-14.059L14.059 286.059A48 48 0 0 1 0 252.118V48C0 21.49 21.49 0 48 0h204.118a47.998 47.998 0 0 1 33.941 14.059l211.882 211.882c18.745 18.745 18.745 49.137 0 67.882zM464 259.882L252.118 48H48v204.118l211.886 211.878L464 259.882zM144 96c-26.51 0-48 21.49-48 48s21.49 48 48 48 48-21.49 48-48-21.49-48-48-48z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\tNorwegian Scenic Routes\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-grid wp-container-core-group-is-layout-9649a0d9 wp-block-group-is-layout-grid\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-grid wp-container-core-group-is-layout-9649a0d9 wp-block-group-is-layout-grid\"><div class=\"t2-featured-single-post t2-featured-content is-post-type-artikler todo-activities todo-hiking todo-hiking-trips facilities-family-friendly facilities-sustainability facilities-universal-accessibility season-autumn season-spring season-summer region-senja malgrupper-local-insider malgrupper-nature-lover wp-block-t2-featured-single-post\">\n\t\t<div class=\"default-card wp-block-t2-wrapper\">\n<a class=\"t2-post-link wp-block-t2-post-link\" href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/en\/artikkel\/anderdalen-national-park-takes-you-into-silence\/\">\n<div class=\"t2-post-dynamic-part is-source-filter filter-default_card wp-block-t2-post-dynamic-part\">\n\t\t<figure style=\"--t2-focal-point: 50% 50%;\" class=\"t2-post-featured-image has-image-ratio-16-9 wp-block-t2-post-dynamic-part\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1019\" src=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Anderdalen-Andervatn-Reflection-Dag-A-Larsen-768x1019.jpg\" class=\"attachment-medium_large size-medium_large\" alt=\"\" \/><\/figure>\n\t\t<div class=\"card-content\">\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<div class=\"card-region\">\n\t\t\t\tSenja\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<h2>\u00c5nderdalen National Park takes you into silence<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<div class=\"card-activities\">\n\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 640 512\" height=\"24\" width=\"24\" class=\"t2-icon t2-icon-activites\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M625.941 293.823L421.823 497.941c-18.746 18.746-49.138 18.745-67.882 0l-.36-.36L592 259.882 331.397 0h48.721a48 48 0 0 1 33.941 14.059l211.882 211.882c18.745 18.745 18.745 49.137 0 67.882zm-128 0L293.823 497.941C284.451 507.314 272.166 512 259.882 512c-12.284 0-24.569-4.686-33.941-14.059L14.059 286.059A48 48 0 0 1 0 252.118V48C0 21.49 21.49 0 48 0h204.118a47.998 47.998 0 0 1 33.941 14.059l211.882 211.882c18.745 18.745 18.745 49.137 0 67.882zM464 259.882L252.118 48H48v204.118l211.886 211.878L464 259.882zM144 96c-26.51 0-48 21.49-48 48s21.49 48 48 48 48-21.49 48-48-21.49-48-48-48z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\tHiking trips\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"t2-featured-single-post t2-featured-content is-post-type-artikler todo-attractions todo-culture-and-history todo-sapmi-culture facilities-family-friendly facilities-sami facilities-sustainable-travel facilities-universal-accessibility season-summer region-senja malgrupper-heritage-explorer malgrupper-local-insider wp-block-t2-featured-single-post\">\n\t\t<div class=\"default-card wp-block-t2-wrapper\">\n<a class=\"t2-post-link wp-block-t2-post-link\" href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/en\/artikkel\/the-turf-house-in-kaperdalen-bears-witness-to-a-little-known-sami-group\/\">\n<div class=\"t2-post-dynamic-part is-source-filter filter-default_card wp-block-t2-post-dynamic-part\">\n\t\t<figure style=\"--t2-focal-point: 50% 52%;\" class=\"t2-post-featured-image has-image-ratio-16-9 wp-block-t2-post-dynamic-part\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"511\" src=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/17-KAPERDALEN_20180716-DSC01838-768x511.jpg\" class=\"attachment-medium_large size-medium_large\" alt=\"\" \/><\/figure>\n\t\t<div class=\"card-content\">\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<div class=\"card-region\">\n\t\t\t\tSenja\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<h2>The turf house in Kaperdalen bears witness to a little known S\u00e1mi group<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<div class=\"card-activities\">\n\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 640 512\" height=\"24\" width=\"24\" class=\"t2-icon t2-icon-activites\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M625.941 293.823L421.823 497.941c-18.746 18.746-49.138 18.745-67.882 0l-.36-.36L592 259.882 331.397 0h48.721a48 48 0 0 1 33.941 14.059l211.882 211.882c18.745 18.745 18.745 49.137 0 67.882zm-128 0L293.823 497.941C284.451 507.314 272.166 512 259.882 512c-12.284 0-24.569-4.686-33.941-14.059L14.059 286.059A48 48 0 0 1 0 252.118V48C0 21.49 21.49 0 48 0h204.118a47.998 47.998 0 0 1 33.941 14.059l211.882 211.882c18.745 18.745 18.745 49.137 0 67.882zM464 259.882L252.118 48H48v204.118l211.886 211.878L464 259.882zM144 96c-26.51 0-48 21.49-48 48s21.49 48 48 48 48-21.49 48-48-21.49-48-48-48z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\tSami Culture\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"t2-featured-single-post t2-featured-content is-post-type-artikler todo-attractions todo-coastal-culture todo-culture-and-history facilities-family-friendly facilities-groups season-summer region-senja malgrupper-culture-lover malgrupper-heritage-explorer malgrupper-local-insider wp-block-t2-featured-single-post\">\n\t\t<div class=\"default-card wp-block-t2-wrapper\">\n<a class=\"t2-post-link wp-block-t2-post-link\" href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/en\/artikkel\/the-halibut-museum-in-skrolsvik-is-consecrated-to-a-sacred-fish\/\">\n<div class=\"t2-post-dynamic-part is-source-filter filter-default_card wp-block-t2-post-dynamic-part\">\n\t\t<figure style=\"--t2-focal-point: 50% 50%;\" class=\"t2-post-featured-image has-image-ratio-16-9 wp-block-t2-post-dynamic-part\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"432\" src=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/SKROLSVIK_20130622-DSC_0092_film-768x432.jpg\" class=\"attachment-medium_large size-medium_large\" alt=\"\" \/><\/figure>\n\t\t<div class=\"card-content\">\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<div class=\"card-region\">\n\t\t\t\tSenja\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<h2>The Halibut Museum in Skrolsvik is consecrated to a sacred fish<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<div class=\"card-activities\">\n\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 640 512\" height=\"24\" width=\"24\" class=\"t2-icon t2-icon-activites\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M625.941 293.823L421.823 497.941c-18.746 18.746-49.138 18.745-67.882 0l-.36-.36L592 259.882 331.397 0h48.721a48 48 0 0 1 33.941 14.059l211.882 211.882c18.745 18.745 18.745 49.137 0 67.882zm-128 0L293.823 497.941C284.451 507.314 272.166 512 259.882 512c-12.284 0-24.569-4.686-33.941-14.059L14.059 286.059A48 48 0 0 1 0 252.118V48C0 21.49 21.49 0 48 0h204.118a47.998 47.998 0 0 1 33.941 14.059l211.882 211.882c18.745 18.745 18.745 49.137 0 67.882zM464 259.882L252.118 48H48v204.118l211.886 211.878L464 259.882zM144 96c-26.51 0-48 21.49-48 48s21.49 48 48 48 48-21.49 48-48-21.49-48-48-48z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\tCoastal Culture\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n<\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"vnn__byline vnn-grid has-author has-date has-tags\"><div class=\"vnn__byline-meta\"><div class=\"vnn__byline-author\">Written by Knut Hansvold<\/div><div class=\"vnn__byline-date\">May 13, 2026<\/div><\/div><div class=\"vnn__byline-tags\"><ul><li><a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/en\/experiences-and-activities\/?fwp_se-og-gjore=activities\" rel=\"tag\">Activities<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/en\/experiences-and-activities\/?fwp_se-og-gjore=attractions\" rel=\"tag\">Attractions<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/en\/experiences-and-activities\/?fwp_se-og-gjore=hiking\" rel=\"tag\">Hiking<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/en\/experiences-and-activities\/?fwp_se-og-gjore=midnight-sun\" rel=\"tag\">Midnight Sun<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/en\/experiences-and-activities\/?fwp_omrder=senja\" rel=\"tag\">Senja<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/en\/experiences-and-activities\/?fwp_sesonger=summer\" rel=\"tag\">Summer<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/en\/experiences-and-activities\/?fwp_fasiliteter=sustainability\" rel=\"tag\">Sustainability<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/en\/experiences-and-activities\/?fwp_fasiliteter=sustainable-travel\" rel=\"tag\">Sustainable Travel<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>","protected":false},"featured_media":33239,"parent":0,"template":"","meta":{"_searchwp_excluded":"","vnn_header_layout":"featured","vnn_header_layout_image_id":33239,"vnn_header_layout_image_focal_point_x":0.5,"vnn_header_layout_image_focal_point_y":0.5,"vnn_header_layout_description":"","vnn_header_layout_url":"","vnn_header_layout_url_text":"","vnn_header_layout_photographer":"","vnn_header_layout_video_id":"","vnn_header_layout_yt_id":"","vnn_header_layout_vimeo_id":"","teft_location_geodata_lat":69.218837160408,"teft_location_geodata_lng":17.454368000355,"teft_cards_image_id":33239,"teft_cards_image_focal_point_x":0.5,"teft_cards_image_focal_point_y":0.5,"teft_cards_title":"","teft_cards_excerpt":"","footnotes":""},"todo":[2,43,14,37],"facilities":[5864,27],"season":[7],"region":[71],"malgrupper":[57,58,18],"class_list":["post-16950","artikler","type-artikler","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","todo-activities","todo-attractions","todo-hiking","todo-midnight-sun","facilities-sustainability","facilities-sustainable-travel","season-summer","region-senja","malgrupper-leave-no-tracer","malgrupper-local-insider","malgrupper-nature-lover"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v24.5 (Yoast SEO v25.3.1) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>A helping hand for a landscape under pressure - Arctic Norway<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"A different kind of holiday on Senja\u2014help restore nature, meet like-minded people, and leave a lighter footprint behind.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/nordnorge.com\/en\/artikkel\/a-helping-hand-for-a-landscape-under-pressure\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"A helping hand for a landscape under pressure\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"A different kind of holiday on Senja\u2014help restore nature, meet like-minded people, and leave a lighter footprint behind.\" 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