There are concerns about the spread of the bark beetle in Latvia as well. Some time ago, we organised a discussion about these problems in Gauja National Park, where the damage has progressed compared to previous years.

Unfortunately, it is currently impossible to carry out operations promptly within the park's territory to reduce the further spread of the bark beetle. Protected areas may lose their recreational value due to bark beetle activity and also threaten adjacent spruce stands. In our opinion, this is not a reasonable approach, as it is necessary to react quickly and allow forest owners, after receiving a sanitary statement prepared by an official of the State Forest Service, to fell trees even in zones where a forest management plan is required. It must be taken into account that while this is being prepared, the bark beetle continues its triumphant advance. In our view, the priority right now must be combating the bark beetle.