Videy in Thjorsa

Viðey in Þjórsá was protected on August 24th, 2011 as a nature reserve. Viðey in Þjórsá is unique, i.a. due to the framing provided by the heavy river current. The area’s importance also lies in the possibility for comparison of birch species, i.e. the birch that has grown there without much human influence and birch elsewhere in Iceland. Over 70 higher plant species have been found in Viðey, thereof two that are rare in Iceland.

The aim of the protection is to preserve the natural, relatively untouched, lush birch forest and the ecosystems within. The aim of the protection is also to preserve the genetic characteristics and diversity of the birch and other vegetation on the island. In addition, the aim of the protection is to strengthen the conservation value of Viðey in Þjórsá, in particular the scientific and educational value.

With the protection of Viðey in Þjórsá, the biodiversity of habitat types of the area is bolstered by protecting the species of plants and other organisms as well as the genealogical sources the species contain and their habitat. The terms of the protection state, i.a. that if power plants are built in lower Þjórsá, the Environment Agency will guarantee that the nature reserve is fenced to protect the ecosystems in the area from humans and animals.

The island is 3.37 ha.