Zemgale to build a database of historic tree avenues

The Zemgale Planning Region (ZPR), a regional development body in southern Latvia, has launched the project “ProtectTrees4Nature” together with partners in Latvia and Lithuania. Its aim is to improve the protection and management of old and protected trees, avenues and parks in order to preserve biodiversity. In Zemgale the project will create a database of tree avenues, build the knowledge of municipal specialists and organise educational events for residents, according to ZPR public relations specialist Undīne Šulca-Heistere.

Why it matters

Zemgale, Kurzeme and northern Lithuania are home to veteran trees, historic avenues and parks that serve as important habitats for many plant and animal species. Their survival is increasingly threatened by climate change, soil degradation and human activity. The project therefore aims to learn more about the condition of the trees, improve management methods and strengthen cooperation between municipalities and nature conservation specialists.

What the project involves

In Latvia and Lithuania, the condition of trees will be studied, assessment methods refined and management plans for avenues and parks drawn up. The project also includes practical care and restoration work, as well as studies of soil, tree root systems and biodiversity.

A key benefit for the Zemgale region will be a digital map of tree avenues, built as a geographic information system (GIS) database. It will collect information on the region's avenues, and municipalities will be able to use it when planning their protection and care. A similar map has already been created in Kurzeme under another project, with residents helping to identify avenues. That experience is to be used in Zemgale as well.

Events for residents and specialists

Six guided excursions will be held in Zemgale: two in Bauska and Jēkabpils municipalities and four in Jelgava municipality. Jelgava municipality will prepare a management plan for Zaļenieki manor park and carry out care work on 550 park trees. Tours will take place in the Eleja, Vircava, Vilce and Zaļenieki parks. A public event, “Park Day”, is also planned in Jelgava municipality, and anyone interested will be invited to photograph historic avenues to help expand the database.

Municipal specialists will take part in three in-person working groups and online training, as well as two exchange trips to Kurzeme and Lithuania.

Project LL-00355 is funded by the European Union's Interreg VI-A Latvia–Lithuania Programme for 2021–2027.