The Bird Tower

The idea of building a bird tower has its origins in the project ”Fjällgås,” which has been ongoing since the 1970s and in recent years has contributed to increased interest not only in the bean goose but also in other birdlife. This increased fascination for birds, forests, and nature has been influenced by several factors, such as climate change, increased popularity of hiking, as well as a growing interest in outdoor life, domestic travel (svemester), and staycations (hemester).

Another important aspect is our local activity ”Top of Arjeplog,” which has contributed to increased interest in the local area, including flora, fauna, and birds. At the same time, as the community faces important sustainability issues and a transition to a fossil-free society, awareness of the importance of nature has also increased.

We will collaborate with the Fjällgås project (https://nordensark.se/bevarande/fjallgas/) to integrate activities at the bird tower aimed at education, sparking interest, and increasing awareness about birds, their species, lifestyles, and their significance for biodiversity. Through various initiatives, such as birdwatching, bird guiding, and informative material about the different bird species that can be seen at the bird tower, we aim to create a meaningful experience for visitors.

We have also had constructive conversations with the primary school, which has positively received our project. Together with Öbergaskolan in Arjeplog, we will carry out activities aimed at the primary school, such as outdoor days with birdwatching and building birdhouses. Through these activities, we hope to engage and inspire young students to learn more about birds and nature, while they experience and appreciate the beautiful biodiversity that exists around the bird tower.

From the Project Application

”The proposal for a bird tower comes from a local resident, who instead of submitting a citizen proposal to Arjeplog Municipality heard about the possibility of receiving support through Leader Lappland and then contacted Argentis with their idea to get support and help.”