In cooperation with Latvian scientists, forestry, agricultural and hunting organisations, and following consultations with the State Forest Service, a digital tool has been developed – the “Mednis” application. It will allow hunters and landowners to record high-quality information about game animals. This information will enable the assessment of population status and animal distribution, as well as providing a basis for well-considered decisions regarding future population management.

“Mednis” is a unique application created in Latvia, which is connected to the State Forest Service (VMD) information system “State Forest Register” and provides an opportunity to collect data on game animals, evidence of their presence, record damage, and, in the near future, also record the fact of culling. Such high-quality collected information will promote the use, conservation and regulation of hunting resources at an optimal level, while simultaneously reducing the risks of damage and losses in the forestry and agricultural sectors, as well as reducing the administrative burden on hunting.

Until now, there was no special tool in Latvia that would allow for remote registration and submission of verifiable information about game animal sightings, culling, and damage caused. There are about 22 thousand active hunters, 70 thousand farmers and 135 thousand private forest owners in Latvia who have not previously been involved in collecting such data. This represents untapped potential for collecting data necessary for wildlife management – about 227 thousand users will be able to provide reliable information about game animals.
Photo: Donal Boyd