Explain how restoration can reduce erosion and recover habitats, then evaluate costs, timing, environmental limits and unintended effects.
Figure: Fact file on Nootka lupin
Nootka lupin is native to North America and was introduced to Iceland to stop soil erosion in 1885. It is invasive, spreads quickly and outcompetes native flora. The Ministry of Environment recommended eradication in highlands above 400 m, national parks and conservation areas. Removal methods include grazing, herbicides, hand pulling and mowing. Public participation is encouraged.
With reference to Figures: Stages of soil degradation and vegetation-cover change in Iceland, Fact file on Nootka lupin and Known distribution of Nootka lupin in 2010 explain the problems associated with land restoration in Iceland.
can be expensive/labour intensive/the longer you leave it the more it costs;
the longer you leave it the lower your chance of success/chance of success is lowered with time/greater stage of vegetation loss;
strategies may have unforeseen/unpredicted effects;
eg lupins (introduced to control soil erosion) are invasive/outcompeting native species/have become a large-scale problem/have spread across the island;
eg herbicides may cause water pollution/adversely affect other species;
eg mowing/grazing/pulling up lupins can increase soil erosion;
harsh climate may make it difficult;
cause of problem may be external/global eg climate change;
reduction/low in soil nutrients/poor soils;
Marking guidance:
Accept other reasonable responses.
Level of success must be linked to time period/stage of vegetation loss to be credited the mark. Do not accept removal of lupins increases cost of restoration.