The Easter holidays were called a threat to deer for an original reason

Two things are unique about the Norwegian mountains: wild reindeer and public access to unspoiled nature. Norwegian politicians have a responsibility to preserve both.

For the European wild reindeer, the preconditions have appeared for extinction in the Scandinavian kingdom. As the only country in Europe with intact wild reindeer populations, Norway has a special responsibility to care for the last remaining individuals.

The gradual destruction of nature leads to the fact that reindeer have less and less habitat. Disturbances caused by human activity also make it difficult to find good places for grazing.

The Norwegian government is working on a White Paper that could ensure the viability of wild reindeer populations in the future. It promises to be “comprehensive, balanced and fact-based.” The measures proposed by state leaders represent record restrictions on public access to the mountain.

Critics of the bill note that the right to natural public access has roots that predate the Constitution. The Outdoor Recreation Act is designed to ensure everyone has access to it.

“This is important not only for physical and mental health. People who become acquainted with Norwegian nature begin to love it and learn to respect it. They also see value in caring for her,” activists say.

The vast mountainous areas, home to wild reindeer, are some of the most untouched areas of nature left. Most people can drive along transport arteries from thousands of years ago and experience untouched nature and silence, as generations before them did.

According to the rules of the White Paper, a number of roads were proposed to be closed because important cultural and historical connections between mountainous regions were disrupted. At least nine Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) lodges may be closed or moved, and up to 60 may have access and opening hours restricted.

While activity in lodge communities and popular destinations has increased with development, DNT visitor data shows that the number of lodge-to-lodge tourists has been fairly stable in most areas since the 70s.

“In areas where strict restrictions on tourists have been proposed, we still know too little about the increase in traffic from snowmobiles, ATVs, motorboats, helicopters and seaplanes,” the Norwegian Trekking Association said.

It noted that DNT already keeps lodges closed in areas where researchers know from long-term observation that this will give wild reindeer more space, allowing tourists to stick to safe routes. For example, Gray Hawk Hut was closed and moved to Maihaugen in 2020 to divert tourists away from valuable wild reindeer habitat.

Experts believe the problem can be solved by directing traffic to the right place at the right time, and this also provides much better control and preparedness than closing the paths permanently.

“There are many interests in the mountains and everyone – from municipalities, landowners, hunters, businesses and tourism – must do their part to reduce the overall burden on reindeer,” the government says.

Campaigners support the need for urgent action to conserve wild reindeer populations.

“The Storting should think twice before the state decides to eliminate important and historic transport arteries passing through the country. In the struggle between economic interests and public access to the mountains, we ask Norwegian politicians to defend the value of the Norwegian outdoor culture,” reports NRK.