Yun Chen

Breiðamerkursandur: Field Intro

Breiðamerkursandur is a glacial outwash plain in southeast Iceland. It was formed by the glaciers Breiðamerkurjökull which be regarded as Iceland’s most dynamic glaciers during the last few centuries. The land exposed from the retreat is characterized by geomorphological features, formed under a glacier. Large plains have been fluted by the glacier and in addition to moraines that the glacier has pushed and bulldozed. Lateral moraines, hummocky terrain, kames, kettle holes and other remnants of stagnant ice formations are left from the retreat. Rivers often cut through these formations and commonly change their channels frequently and carry the large amounts of sediment that the weight of the glacier grinds down and across a large area. Additionally, stream sediments and eskers reveal receded glacial lakes. Small lakes and ponds are spread throughout the area in basins in the sand.

A wetland area on a glacial outwash plain, formed by a number of rivers running from the Vatnajökull glacier on the south-east coast of Iceland. There are small marshes, glacial lagoons, sandy areas with rushes Juncus, and flat areas of glacial outwash gravel, partly or completely vegetated with moss and other vegetation. A good diversity of waders also breed here for example Arctic tern and great skua.

According to the ancient Book of Settlements, people began to settle Breiðamerkursandur at the beginning of the colonization period nearly 1100 years ago. It is not known exactly whether or where farmsteads were located on the sands, but place names suggest that they were south of Breiðárlón lagoon. 

Strategies and Phases

My strategy for the Múlaá River would involve dividing the river into three areas: upstream, middle stream, and downstream. Each area would have a specific purpose, such as erosion control, improving ecology and habitat, and taking advantage of the new expanded shore. I achieve this through various measures and installations that capture, transfer and use sediment.

In the upstream area, I would focus on erosion control measures, such as planting vegetation and creating barriers to prevent further erosion. This would help to stabilize the riverbanks and prevent sediment from entering the water, which can harm aquatic life.

In the middle stream area, I would work to improve the river’s ecology and habitat, and focus on wetlands creation around kettle hole. This could include using local rocks and logs to create more diverse habitats. Additionally, I would look for ways to reduce pollution and improve water quality.

In the downstream area, I would take advantage of the new expanded shore created by the river’s natural processes. This could involve creating new recreational areas for the community, such as hiking trails and jetty that combined with floating areas. I would also look for ways to protect the shoreline and prevent erosion in this area.

 

Design Phases

To implement the erosion control and wetlands creation, a combination of strategies could be used in a three-phase approach. The first phase would involve the installation of sediment capture system including dikes in the canyon and dam around kettle hole.

In the second phase, vegetation could be planted to help stabilize the soil and provide habitat for wildlife. Native species of plants could be chosen that will help create a diverse ecosystem.

The third and final phase would involve perfecting the wetland ecosystem by monitoring and managing the water flow, vegetation growth, and overall health of the wetland. Another thing is perfecting trail systems for tourism and local community. By combining these strategies, it is possible to create a sustainable ecosystem that will provide valuable ecosystem services and support the ecological health of the region. Additionally, this approach could help mitigate the effects of climate change and reduce the risk of flooding, while providing a valuable habitat for the many species of birds and wildlife that rely on wetlands in Iceland.

Sediment Capturer

This involves allowing sediment to naturally accumulate in an area over time, by creating structures, sediment capturers that encourage sediment deposition. This sediment can then be used for restoration or habitat creation.

 

Key Area 1 - Viewing Point

The small theater is designed to provide visitors with a panoramic view of the moraine landform. A rampway connects the theater to the bridge, which then leads to the platform above the sediment capturer. This allows visitors to easily move from the theater to the viewing spot and explore the site further. 

 

Key Area 2 - Floating Islands

The site includes several floating islands that serve as habitats for birds and provide a space for people to connect with nature. These islands are designed to promote biodiversity and provide a safe environment for various bird species.

The trails that go through the islands allow visitors to explore the ecosystem and observe the birds in their natural habitat. The trails and platforms provide opportunities for visitors to connect with the environment and learn about the ecological significance of the area.

Islands and Underwater Installation

The floating islands provide an ideal habitat for vegetation to grow and stabilize the sediment, which over time can increase the biodiversity of the area. As sediment and organic material accumulate on the islands, they create layers of substrate that are ideal for different types of plants and organisms.

The roots of the plants can penetrate these layers of substrate, creating a network of roots that stabilizes the island and provides a foundation for other plants and organisms to grow. As the vegetation matures and decomposes, it provides a nutrient-rich substrate that supports the growth of microorganisms and krill. These organisms serve as the base of the food chain, attracting larger species such as fish and birds.

Over time, the floating islands can become a key component of the ecosystem, providing habitat and food sources for a variety of species, it contributes to the restoration and sustainability of the area.