Norway expands Rondane National Park and bans several outdoor activities to protect wild reindeer
The government is enlarging Rondane National Park and prohibiting dog sledding, kite-sailing and horseback riding in parts of the area to safeguard the wild reindeer migration route.
In a move to reinforce the historic migration corridor for Norway's wild reindeer, the government will enlarge Rondane National Park and tighten restrictions on human recreation. Minister Sigrun Aasland said the measures are needed to give the reindeer a larger, less disturbed habitat. While cyclists may still access the popular Rondvassbu lodge during the busiest months, biking between Reinsbommen and Rondvassbu will be barred at other times.
The bans also cover dog-sledding, horseback riding, and kite- or ski-sail activities throughout the park. Additionally, the parking facility at Spranget will be shut, with visitors required to use the Mysusæther lot. Researchers note that the reindeer's traditional route has become fragmented by trails and roads, effectively splitting the population into four separate groups.
Why it matters
The restrictions aim to preserve a critical habitat for a vulnerable wildlife species under international responsibility.
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