Young rangers get to know riparian forests and the wise management of ecosystems

In mid-March, a seminar for Vidzeme’s young rangers on riparian forests and public involvement in biodiversity management took place at “Birzgaiļi” in Liepupe parish.

Mārcis Saklaurs, lead expert at the Latvian State Forest Research Institute “Silava”, spoke at the seminar about the importance of riparian forests, the challenges of managing them and the opportunities for protecting them. He also presented the LIFE IS SALACA project – “Adaptation of Water Framework Directive and Habitats Directive harmonization and integrated actions for freshwater quality improvement in Salaca river sub catchment”.

The expert explained that riparian forests are a transition zone between two ecosystems – watercourses and forests or farmland. These forests play an essential role in ensuring water quality, preserving biodiversity and reducing bank erosion. The aim of the project is to improve the management of riparian forests based on an ecosystem services approach – assessing and taking into account, in a balanced way, all the benefits provided by nature. Several specific measures are planned:

• replacing 25 ha of grey alder – replacing overmature grey alder stands with other trees or removing them to encourage a more natural and diverse forest structure;
• 40 ha of demonstration areas in mature forests, showing sustainable management and its effect on reducing soil erosion and nutrient leaching;
• a 4 km educational trail that will serve as an educational tool for the public – pupils, local residents and tourists. Along it, visitors will be able to learn about riparian forests, their functions and the management measures they need.

The project runs from 2024 to 2028. During this time, decision support tools will also be developed and improvements to legislation will be proposed, including work on drafting a new Protection Zone Law.

Inta Soma, expert at the “Ziemeļvidzeme” Nature Education Centre of the Nature Conservation Agency, also spoke at the seminar about invasive species in riverside areas and introduced the animals and plants found in these transition zones.

The seminar was a valuable opportunity for the young rangers not only to broaden their knowledge of Latvia’s biodiversity but also to delve into the issues of its management and protection, becoming ambassadors for nature in their communities.