Åcka, Naturreservat

In Åcka, the natural values are linked to different types of forest. There are forests that burned long ago, where some trees are 250 years old, mixed coniferous forests with lots of deciduous trees and dead wood, and also spruce forests with orchids and other herbs. However, there are several old sheepfold paths through the nature reserve. Åcka nature reserve is located in eastern Hälsingland about 8 kilometers northwest of Enånger. The forest in Åcka is varied. There are dry rocky areas with really old pines and traces of fires. But you can also walk in a damp spruce forest rich in orchids and herbs. he varied nature with different types of forest in wet and dry environments is the basis for the reserve's high natural values.

Traces of forest fires

Up on the outcrops, pine forests grow with trees up to 250 years old. Although it is over 100 years since there was a fire in this forest, you can still see black-burnt stumps and fire damage (fire sounds) on the trunks of the older pines.

Unusually herb-rich spruce forest

On the slope north of Bottenängestjärnen, nature changes character. Here the forest is unusually rich in herbs and orchids, spruce-dominated and moist. The tarn, the bogs and the small stream contribute to the moisture and variation. In large parts of the area there are plenty of standing and lying dead trees in various stages of decay. They are important habitats for many fungi, insects and birds.

The moth mushroom (Sarcodon squamosus) and the black mushroom, which are also found in the area, belong to a group of ground-dwelling fungi known as the mountain mushrooms. They indicate high natural values and a long history of old-growth forest in the area.

Old shepherd's paths

Several old sheepfold paths run through the reserve. In older times, the forest was probably used for both herding with forest grazing and for hunting, bog hunting and charcoal burning. There are no marked trails that are maintained in Åcka. However, there are several old sheepfold trails through the nature reserve.