Ecogain has been helping operators with reindeer husbandry studies since 2006. Different phases of projects require different depths of analysis. Therefore, we carry out screening, feasibility studies and full reindeer husbandry investigations in our clients' permit processes. Regardless of the type of investigation, we use the latest research and focus on the conditions at the site.
Among other things, Ecogain produced the reindeer husbandry study for the Rambo wind power project, with operator OX2 and landowner SCA. Our studies are always adapted to the conditions of the area, and in this project the study consisted of extensive GIS analysis and consultation with two affected Sami villages. The study analyzed the direct and indirect effects of the planned park, including how the reindeer used the area during different seasons, their migration routes and cumulative effects of other nearby activities.
The report resulted in proposals for safeguards and also showed residual impacts after the safeguards are implemented.
Ecogain attaches great importance to developing measures that can turn a possible negative impact on reindeer husbandry into a positive one.
Monitoring program and handbook for reindeer husbandry studies
In addition to analyses as part of permit processes, we carry out monitoring programs. This is to ensure that permit conditions are complied with and reindeer husbandry is taken into account, both during operation and construction of activities.
Ecogain has produced a handbook for reindeer husbandry investigations, on behalf of Swedish Wind Energy and 14 of the organization's member companies.
Ecogain is also developing a method for soil lichen prediction, where the importance of the soil for reindeer foraging can be assessed from remote sensing.
