International Field Camp Peninsula Byers

Antarctic

Open

Camp

Spain

None

2001

Seasonal

International Field Camp Peninsula Byers, Unidad de Tecnología Marina, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas

International Field Camp Peninsula Byers is a camp located on the South Beaches of Byers Península, Livingston Island, South Shetland Islands.

Exceptional diversity of terrestrial flora and fauna. It is the most significant limnological site in the South Shetland Islands. Area extremely sensitive to human impact. Is the largest ice-free area in the South Shetland Islands.

The peninsula has exceptional historical interest, containing the greatest concentration of 19th century historical sites in Antarctica, such as the remains of refuges, contemporary artefacts, and shipwrecks of early nineteenth century sealing expeditions. The camp was installed to support the scientific research in the area during short periods of time. Due to the increasing interest in the area, the camp is still operative but can be easily dismantled when required. It is maintained by the personnel of Juan Carlos I station who keep the camp in a good condition year by year. The camp consists in two fibre glass “melon huts” each of 6m x 2m in size, one set up for scientific research and the other for domestic activities. The camp is open to all the Parties.

Limnology, human impact, ecosystem, geology, coastal science, meteorology, lichen physiology, permafrost, microbiology, palaeontology and archaeology.

It is an Antarctic Specially Protected Area so the entry in the area is prohibited except in accordance with a permit issued by an appropiate national authority and only for scientific purporses or management purposes.

The main access is by ship or helicopter. Parties should liase with Spain, Spanish Polar Committee, to co-ordinate access to the melon huts.

Comité Polar Español

Government

Unidad de Tecnología Marina

No