This spring, “Rīgas Meži” will begin creating scenically valuable, or recreational, areas near the village of Priedkalne (Ropaži Municipality, Gauja forestry district, Krievupe forest range). The creation of these areas will take place as part of forestry operations in accordance with the “Forest Management Plan” approved by the Riga municipality, as well as the forest landscape ecological plan and the site design plan.

(...)

In this range, the functional zoning of the forest stands includes a scenically valuable, or recreational, area. Its purpose is to improve leisure opportunities for residents, as well as to ensure the preservation and development of pine, the characteristic main tree species of this forest mass. In these areas, the oldest pines will be protected and more favourable conditions will be created for young pines, while trees with bird nests and hollows will also be preserved. These areas are also significant from the perspective of other non-timber forest values, as they are popular spots for local residents to pick mushrooms and berries and to spend their leisure time.

By carrying out gentler forestry operations, junipers, wild apple trees, understory oaks, spruces, pines, and second-storey spruces will be preserved in the undergrowth. Meanwhile, in areas where other forestry works are to be carried out, it is planned to remove shrubs and trees that are uncharacteristic of and disruptive to a pine forest – such as maple, birch, and serviceberry.