Rain stayed away for the Great Forest Day

The Great Forest Day was held for the nineteenth time this year. According to forest ranger Þór Þorfinnsson, approximately 1,500 visitors came to the Arboretum in Mörkin despite weather forecasts suggesting rain. As is often the case, however, the forecast did not materialise, says Þór, and guests were able to enjoy the good weather in the forest while taking part in a varied programme suitable for all age groups.

The East Iceland Nature School organised games and challenges for children, and youngsters were also given the opportunity to ride horses under supervision. On stage, young musicians from the local area performed a variety of music, while a new feature this year was a disc golf tournament held on the popular course at Guttormslundur.

As in previous years, a whole bull was roasted on a spit, this time a heifer from Gilsárteigur in Eiðaþinghá. Sheep farmers grilled lamb and sausages, and there was plenty of food available for visitors throughout the day. Naturally, kettle-brewed coffee and traditional griddle cakes baked over an open fire were also served, continuing a long-standing Great Forest Day tradition.

The programme concluded with the final round of the Icelandic Timber Sports Championship. Seven competitors took part this year. Matej Cieslar of Skógarmenn ehf. in Akureyri became Icelandic Champion, completing the competition events in 410 seconds. Bjarki Sigurðsson, an employee of Land and Forest Iceland at Hallormsstaður, finished second with a time of 441 seconds, while Ýmir Knútur Eiríksson of Fjósakambur placed third in 515 seconds.

The competition was directed by Skúli Björnsson, and the judges were Þröstur Eysteinsson and Vignir Elvar Vignisson. Accompanying photos from the event are taken by Maria Eir Jónssdóttir.