Designation is a method of protecting unique and important natural features within a defined area. By designating an area for protection, its conservation is secured for the future, for the benefit of nature and generations to come.
The first step in preparing a designation is for the Nature Conservation Agency of Iceland to invite landowners, the relevant municipality and other parties to nominate representatives to a working group. The role of the working group is to identify stakeholders, prepare proposed rules for the area, known as the terms of designation, and determine the boundaries of the protected area.
If the area is not included in a nature conservation plan, the Master Plan for Nature Protection and Energy Utilization or the implementation plan of the Nature Conservation Register, the intention to designate the area must be published for a four-week consultation period. The objectives and purpose of the proposed designation must be specified. The proposal is also sent directly to parties identified by the working group as having an interest in the area.
Once the consultation period has ended, the Nature Conservation Agency of Iceland reviews the comments received and submits its response to the minister responsible for environmental affairs. The Agency also informs those who submitted comments of its response to them. If the area is included in a nature conservation plan, the Master Plan for Nature Protection and Energy Utilization or the implementation plan of the Nature Conservation Register, this consultation process is not required unless the proposed protected area is larger than the area previously identified in those plans.
When preparing the proposed terms of designation, the working group consults parties with specific interests in the area. These may include landowners, tourism operators and other stakeholders.
Once the working group has prepared proposed terms of designation and boundaries for the protected area, the proposal is published for a consultation period of at least six weeks. The Nature Conservation Agency of Iceland presents the proposal to landowners, the relevant municipalities and others with an interest in the designation. The Agency also informs landowners of their right to compensation under the Nature Conservation Act.
Once the consultation period has ended, the working group reviews the comments received. The Nature Conservation Agency of Iceland then refers the proposal to the minister for confirmation and informs the minister whether agreement on the designation has been reached with the parties concerned.