2013

JSC “Latvia's State Forests” (LVM) nature trail was made 120 metres long, consisting of 393 trees and bushes, including 257 coniferous trees and bushes and 136 deciduous trees. The trail was laid next to the school's nature study centre. It will serve as an open air class for Valmiera students, residents and guests, offering to become familiar with the diversity of Latvia's nature, obtain practical knowledge about various nature processes, become aware of alternative energy opportunities, replenish energy and become inspired by Latvia's treasure – forests.

All trees and bushes were labelled in five languages – Latvian, English, German, Russian and Latin. A special sign, pointing towards the trail was erected in the school's yard. In addition, an informative stand was set up near the trail. By the beginning of summer, the trail will also be equipped with a park bench and a pond – with a wooden foot-bridge and steps to serve as a source of samples during studies.

Event participants:

• Laid and opened LVM nature trail

• Planted one of the first oxygen forests in cities

• Enjoyed soup and drinks

Participating in the event were:

• Inesis Boķis, Valmiera City Council Chairman

• Jānis Zemļickis, Valmiera State Gymnasium Principal

• Tomass Kotovičs, LVM Communications Department Head

• Nearly 200 Valmiera State Gymnasium students and parents

• Valmiera City Council representatives

Within the framework of the nationwide forest seeding and planting campaign “Oxygen”, LVM has launched a large-scale planting of oxygen forests throughout Latvia. LVM intends to plant approximately 30 million trees this year, renewing almost 16,000 hectares of forest. Oxygen forests will be planted not only in wooded territories, but also in city environments, regenerating and supplementing existing green areas and planting new groves.

To promote greater responsibility and respect for Latvia's treasure - forests – LVM wishes to establish a new tradition – an annual forest seeding and planting event with family members. Therefore, every resident was invited to participate and plant oxygen forests or at least a family tree in his/her garden, yard or country estate on May 18.

Moreover, within the framework of this year's Night of Museums, special LVM workshops were opened in 12 museums in many Latvian cities and towns, granting access to more than 20,000 fir and pine tree seeds, giving everyone a chance to plant his/her own oxygen tree.

Additional information:

Ilze Meirupska: phone – 28377234, e mail – This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.