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Safe Recreation in LVM Forests: Narrow Bog Trails and Observation Towers are Temporarily Closed

To take care of public safety during the period of emergency declared in the country, JSC “Latvia's State Forests” (LVM) has closed some of its tourist sites such as towers, bunkers and narrow bog trails, where COVID-19 precautionary measures cannot be implemented.

“Recently, we have seen a significant increase in people's interest and desire to go out in nature. We are pleased to be able to offer more than 340 tourist destinations in Latvia, which LVM has created and maintains every year. Therefore, we are also aware of the need to ensure safe and responsible rest in forests. Recreation areas where social distancing of 2 metres or surface disinfection is not possible are closed. Other nature trails and recreational areas are still open, and we ask people to be responsible and to keep a distance at these sites. This is for the benefit of all of us,” says Tomass Kotovičs, Head of LVM Communication Unit.

Information about the closed tourist attractions is available on LVM mobile application LVM GEO and www.mammadabakarte.lv. Please read the latest information before going to the forest.

LVM tourism objects temporarily closed from 28 March:

Edmunds Linde, LVM Silviculture Planning Manager, encourages every nature friend to find their own place of recreation in Latvia’s state forests: “There is enough space in forests! The hiking route in an area of 1.62 million hectares allows everyone to explore ever-new forest roads, trails, paths, mountains and plains - these are great opportunities for new adventures and safe recreation. Please do not damage the signs and comply with the restrictions in the places that are closed to visitors. The farther a road leads from the city, the safer and more fun it is!”

“Vehicles should be parked at their designated locations or in a way, which does not obstruct the movement of fire-fighting vehicles, forestry vehicles or any other tourists. It is also advisable to prepare a power meal at home so that you do not have to make a fire in the woods. But if you still choose to do it - remember that it can only be done in the designated areas. Be careful with open flames in this dry time. We should also remember mites - they are very active right now,” Edmunds Linde, LVM Silviculture Planning Manager, calls for mutual respect and compliance with safety measures in the forest.