The programme proposes a total of 33 new protected areas on city-owned land, covering approximately 850 hectares. Most of these new sites are designated in the master plan as recreational, hiking, and local green areas.
The aim of the conservation programme is to preserve both typical and rare species and habitats found in Lahti.
– In addition, we will strengthen the existing network of protected areas and maintain ecological connections that are vital for the movement of animals and plant species, says Juha Helminen, Director of Planning.
Currently, Lahti has 54 protected nature areas with a combined area of around 1,000 hectares. With the new programme, the area under protection will nearly double, and protected forests will account for 25% of the city-owned forest area.
The sites to be protected have been prioritised and scheduled for implementation. The city will propose the establishment of these protected areas to the licensing and supervisory authority, which will make a separate decision for each site and formally designate the protected status.
Increasing the number of protected areas is a goal set in Lahti’s council agreement for 2025–2029 and forms part of the city’s nature-positive roadmap.