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Helsinki nature conservation programme prepares to esablish nature reserve
Helsinki is preparing to establish a nature reserve in the Vartiokylä neighbourhood and Hallainvuori area.
Under Mayor of Helsinki Juhana Vartiainen, the city has prepared proposals to protect the areas in question, noting that the areas are part of the Helsinki nature conservation programme for the period up to 2024.
Helsinki’s relevant bodies will discuss the plan to preserve the area of approximately 2.7 hectares, after which the city administration will meet to discuss the proposal.
The area in question is dominated by meadows and boasts many plant species, with city authorities stressing the importance of protecting biodiversity.
Some plant species present in the area are endangered or threatened, while many pollinating insect species are rare. As part of the plan to establish a nature preserve, Helsinki drew up plans to manage the meadows.
City authorities reminded that the area is used for recreation and added that many paths run through it, stressing that conservation plans do not include any movement restrictions.
Besides meadows, the areas to be protected include small forests and groves as well as marshes and cliffs, with Helsinki authorities pointing out that many bird species present there are endangered.
As part of conservation efforts, Helsinki will mark footpaths in the area and erect signs to help people get around and provide information about local features.
City authorities noted that several fortifications from WWI still remain in the area, stressing that climbing them is not allowed for safety reasons as the concrete is worn and cracked.
(Photo credit: Jere Salminen)
