The Finnish Natural Heritage Foundation has purchased considerable additional areas of land and increased the size of its existing conservation areas.

This latest purchase will extend the Myllyniitty conservation area in Valkeakoski, which was purchased last year, by three hectares, bringing it to a total of 18 hectares. The forest is unusual as it is dominated by broadleaf trees, and it also contains a flying squirrel habitat and a valuable area of herb-rich forest with liverwort. Myllyniitty also acts as a connecting island for other protected areas that are located nearby. As Myllyniitty is extended, its status is also strengthened.

“We are trying to actively increase our existing conservation areas, as large, continuous protected forests are the best way to guarantee the preservation of natural diversity. Many of the species living in old forests can only survive in large, protected areas,” Pepe Forsberg, Managing Director of the Finnish Natural Heritage Foundation, clarifies.

Keijunmetsä forest, located in Hämeenlinna, was increased by nearly eight hectares through the purchase of two woodlots. Keijunmetsä was originally protected in 2011, and it was the Foundation’s first acquisition in Hämeenlinna. After the latest purchase, this fairy-tale forest located in the village of Vehmainen in Renko will expand to a total of 22 hectares. The entire Haltianlahti bay is an important habitat for the moor frog, waders, and the large white-faced darter, so the new additional areas will make a huge impact on the protection of wetland species.

Donations made to the Finnish Natural Heritage Foundation can be allocated to a specific area. This way, the donor can have a local impact on the protection of forests. One way to improve the situation of Keijunmetsä and its surrounding areas is to buy an allocated gift card.

“Many people buy Keijunmetsä gift cards from us, which is a good alternative to a normal greeting card. Here at the Foundation, we pay close attention to regional donations, and we allocate them to purchases in the regions in question,” Managing Director Forsberg says.

The Finnish Natural Heritage Foundation is in constant need of donations from both individuals and businesses to help save endangered forests and protect natural diversity. Instructions for making a donation can be found on the Finnish Natural Heritage Foundation’s website on www.luonnonperintosaatio.fi/donate/

(Photo: Johanna Viitanen)