NORRA MELLAN-SVERIGE - Geography and history
Norra Mellansverige (North-Central Sweden) consists of the counties of Värmland, Dalarna and Gävleborg. The region covers the provinces of Värmland, Dalarna, Gästrikland and Hälsingland.
The average population density, 13 inhabitants per km2, is largely below the national average of 22 inhabitants per km2. With most of the inhabitants living in urban areas, the rural parts are sparsely populated. Of the 41 municipalities in the region, only 14 are characterised by a high degree of urbanisation (more than 80%). These 14 municipalities have 54 % of the total population and 17 % of the area (41 inhabitants per km2).
The region covers 16% of the national territory. More than three quarters of it is forested land and only one twentieth is farmland.
There are differences in the topography of the provinces. Spurs from the mountains formed in the Caledonian era are found in the northern parts of Värmland and Dalarna. The province of Gästrikland is lowland, as well as parts of Hälsingland.
The economic history of the region is characterised by mining, iron-ore handling and early industrialisation. Forestry and lumber products are important in the region.
Communications are oriented towards urban areas such as Stockholm and Gothenburg. The roads follow the big rivers. Harbours are found on Lake Vänern and along the eastern coast.
There are several large industrial plants in the region, e.g. iron and steelworks and pulp and paper mills.
Quality of life dependent on sparsely populated areas
The region is characterised by relatively large urban settlements surrounded by sparsely populated areas. Long distances between the large settlements prevent daily commuting.
The sparse settlement pattern in this region of many lakes and rivers enhances the quality of life. The northern parts of Värmland and Dalarna are popular tourist districts.
Some years ago, the felling of trees was carried out in such a way that it had negative effects (e.g. clear-cut areas) on the attraction of the forests for outdoor activities. The needs of outdoor life are now better catered for.
Much of the region is attractive for outdoor activities. Residents in the large towns visit holiday cottages both in the winter and summer seasons for hunting and fishing.
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