Variņi parish's “Amberfarm” nominated for public vote in “Sējējs 2026” contest
SIA “Amberfarm” from Smiltene municipality has been nominated for the public recognition vote in the “Sējējs 2026” contest, in the “Organic Farm” category. The farm is currently harvesting sea buckthorn and inviting the public to pick their own berries.
A single company from Smiltene municipality, SIA “Amberfarm” of Variņi parish, has been nominated for the public recognition vote in the “Sējējs 2026” contest. The farm was nominated in the “Organic Farm” category for its work in organic farming and for growing and processing sea buckthorn and rosehips.
“Amberfarm” operates near the Palsa River in the Ūdrupe area and takes pride in its wide range of sea buckthorn products. Owner Andrejs Nika says the farm is currently in the middle of a busy harvest season, and anyone interested is welcome to come and pick their own sea buckthorn berries — the fruit will remain available for at least another week. Berries may only be picked by hand, one at a time, and visitors must bring their own containers; picking times must be arranged in advance. According to Nika, interest in self-picking grows every year, with both returning visitors and new ones arriving from the wider Vidzeme region and beyond.
Sustainable farming
The company places strong emphasis on environmentally friendly practices — organic growing methods help preserve biodiversity, while solar panels power its large freezing facilities. As a full-cycle business, “Amberfarm” grows, processes and sells its own products under the brand “Smiltenes dzintari”.
Public voting in the “Sējējs 2026” contest continues until September 19, with one vote allowed per person per day at sejejs.lv. This year nominees have been named in eight categories. The annual contest is organized by the Ministry of Agriculture to honor Latvia's leading farmers, food producers, young agricultural entrepreneurs and rural businesses.
