2019

A Forest Day Event to Take Place in the Sap Tree Park

On 15 May, JSC “Latvia’s State Forests” (LVM), Smiltene Municipality local government and SIA “Kainaiži” will host an event for planting of North American silver maple seedlings in the first sap tree park in the world.

“Once we have planted the North American silver maple seedlings, there will already be three maple tree species growing in our park, which will complement the birch and walnut trees that already grow there. When the trees have reached the diameter of the trunk suitable for drilling, those interested will have an opportunity not only to see the trees, but also to taste the sap of the trees,” says Ervins Labanovskis, the owner of SIA “Kainaiži”, the manufacturer of the sparkling birch juice “Birzī”.

Although the company's cooperation with the local government in the establishment of the park in Kainaiži was started only last year, there are already 110 black walnut trees, 100 sugar maples, as well as birch trees and common or Norwegian maples growing in the park.

The well-groomed park area provides the opportunity for those interested to relax in the nature and explore the species of trees that give sap in spring, as well as get to know the birch sap “factory” in the form of lectures and excursions.

“Historically, Forest Days did not take place in forest. Foresters went to places of public interest where they planted young trees. This is precisely how the pine forests that protect the dunes of the Baltic Sea, many parks and dendrological plantations are made. That is why the Latvia’s State Forest team is especially enthusiastic to participate in the establishment of this new sap tree park in Smiltene Municipality,” says LVM representative Tomass Kotovičs.

Participants should take along shovels and dress according to weather.