SIA “Rīgas meži” is planning forest management work in selected forest compartments within the Līči forestry district of the Gauja forest management area, in Stopiņi parish, Ropaži municipality, between Dzidriņas, Līči, Saurieši, and Upeslejas.

Work and its purpose: to improve the species composition and growing conditions of the forest stands. Therefore, undesirable and obstructive undergrowth and shrubs will be cleared. Large trees will also be evenly thinned to provide better access to light and more space for the remaining trees. In some places, circular openings will also be created to encourage the natural seeding and growth of young pine saplings, and to ensure they receive more sunlight. During the work, existing natural features within the area will be preserved, such as large fallen trees, junipers, ant hills, and selected dead trees to improve the food base for birds, insects, and other small forest inhabitants.

The work will be carried out in accordance with the principles of responsible and sustainable forest management, as defined by the international certificates awarded to “Rīgas meži”.

Planned timing of work: in accordance with regulatory requirements, work is scheduled to begin at the end of March 2023, carried out intermittently, and completed by the start of the 2024 fire-risk period (approximately the end of April next year).

Area of work and types of felling: approximately 55 hectares, with selection felling and thinning to be carried out in similar proportions:

selection felling: trees are evenly thinned or openings are created to ensure better growing conditions and more light for young trees. This promotes the development of a healthier forest stand in the future. This type of felling is used in forest stands of various ages, with the volume of trees removed not exceeding the growth increment. Specifically, in the case of selection felling, the basal area (density) of the forest stand is not reduced below the critical basal area (density) level,

thinning: to promote tree growth and improve the composition and health of the forest stand, unsuitable or obstructive trees and shrubs are removed. In the case of thinning, the basal area (density) of the forest stand is not reduced below the minimum basal area to ensure improved conditions for stand composition and the growth of the remaining trees.

Planned sequence of work: preparation of forest roads for machinery; clearing of undergrowth, including shrub cutting; felling of trees; extraction of timber; partial collection and removal of branches; restoration of road infrastructure. Work may take place simultaneously or may be temporarily paused due to unsuitable weather conditions.

During forest operations, please do not approach the area where machinery is working and exercise caution! Please also be aware that for some time after the work is completed, individual branches from felled trees may still be caught in the canopy!

The forest surroundings near Dzidriņas are interesting as they include Karātavgrāvis, or the Gallows Ditch – most of its surroundings will also not be affected by the forest management work. Karātavgrāvis is a small stream which in the 16th century was used to dig a canal from Piķurga to Mazā Jugla to replenish the lake at Ulbroka mill.