Mohsskalan

Mohsskalan is a coastal plateau and nature reserve in the western Nordmark region of a fictional country. The name Mohsskalan is of Nordic origin and translates roughly to moss-clad scarp, reflecting the area’s extensive moss cover and rocky slopes that drop to a sheltered inlet.

Rising to about 320 meters above sea level, Mohsskalan comprises layered slate and basalt outcrops, thin soils, and a discontinuous conifer understory. The climate is maritime, with cool summers, frequent winds, and high humidity which supports rich moss and lichen communities. Cliff faces host seabird colonies in season, including species such as guillemots and kittiwakes. The area is also home to small mammals and diverse invertebrates.

Historically, the plateau was used for seasonal grazing and small-scale forestry. In the late 20th century parts of Mohsskalan suffered from overgrazing, but conservation measures in 1988 established it as a protected landscape. Current management aims to preserve moss habitats and prevent disturbance to nesting birds.

Today Mohsskalan attracts hikers and nature observers. It is accessible by regional roads and a network of footpaths that lead to viewpoints and a visitor information point. There are no permanent settlements within the plateau; seasonal huts exist for caretakers. Facilities are limited and include marked trails, information boards, and restrictions on camping and fires during sensitive periods to protect the moss and wildlife.

Mohsskalan is cited in regional planning as an example of moss-rich, glacially formed landscapes and is part of broader efforts to safeguard coastal ecosystems in the fictional Nordmark region.