Instructions and Rules in Kvarken Archipelago Nature Reserve

Instructions on Exploring the Natura 2000 area in Kvarken Archipelago

• Camping is allowed in Kvarken Archipelago by
the Everyman's right (www.environment.fi). There are no designated camping sites. However, lighting campfires is only allowed at designated campfire sites.
• Many of the islands in Kvarken are important nesting areas for birds, so it is essential to keep to the marked trails during the nesting season, 1.5. - 15.7.
• Dogs have to be kept on lead at all times.
• Hand-picking Sea buckthorn (Hippophaë rhamnoides ) berries is allowed without limitations. Nowadays, also the use of extractors is allowed without limitations in time.

Preparations

Mobile Phone Coverage

• Although Finland has a broad network for mobile phones, there are some areas in the park without signal. There may also be some smaller spots where there is interference. If this happens try to climb to a higher place or go into an open area. It may be worth removing the SIM card from your phone and then trying again to make emergency call. Different phones also differ in their coverage.

Weather and Equipment

• At the sea it is important to be prepared for quickly changing weather conditions.
• Wind-proof clothing is always necessary on the sea.
• Nautical charts are of essential importance, the labyrinth-like archipelago is covered in the series F. There are
special maps about the unofficial channels for small boats. These channels are maintained by volunteers, and boaters may use them at their own risk. These maps are sold locally.
• Ticks are spreading out to Kvarken Archipelago.
• They live in damp grass, and some of them carry viruses and bacteria which cause diseases. It is important to cover your legs and arms, which is easily done by wearing long sleeves and wearing your socks on top of your trouser legs.
• Tick pliers (sold in pharmacies) and tick check done every night are also essential. Ticks are most likely found in crooks.
• How to Hike without Leaving a Trace?

Be Careful

• When walking on the islands, it is good to remember that the rocks are slippery when wet, and so are moss and algae.
• Water flows fast in Kvarken, and this affects the thickness of the ice cover in the winter. If walking on the ice, you need to know where the currents are, to avoid falling through the thin ice. It is not recommended to walk on the ice, unless you know the local ice conditions.