Jurkalne steep coast cleanup begins for Soviet-era buried waste
The State Environmental Service has inspected the Jurkalne steep coast, where waste buried by the Soviet army is emerging from a former missile base; parish authorities have started collecting it.
This summer, work has begun to tackle buried waste left by the Soviet army along the scenic Jurkalne steep coast. Old plastic sheeting, metal objects, and other debris are starting to emerge from the former military missile base known by its historical name “Raketnieki” and are falling down the slope.
The State Environmental Service has inspected the site, and the parish administration has started collecting the waste. At the same time, regular efforts continue to remove litter washed up by the sea or left behind by visitors.
The issue highlights the environmental legacy of the Soviet military presence on Latvia’s coast. Dealing with such buried waste is expected to take years and require considerable resources. Jurkalne’s steep coast is a popular tourist destination, making pollution prevention important for both nature and the public.
Authorities are currently assessing the extent of pollution and working to keep the area clean. Local residents and visitors are encouraged to report any newly visible waste so that it can be collected quickly and prevented from reaching the sea.
/nginx/o/2026/02/26/17477945t1h601a.jpg)
