Within the LIFE Peat Restore project, the local management plan for fen restoration in Lake Engure Nature Park is being developed. Lake Engure Nature Park is one of the project areas and is also among the most valuable sites for conservation of alkaline fens in Latvia. By developing a local management plan, the LIFE Peat Restore project team aims not only at carrying out the actions proposed within the project, but also at providing a broader view on integrated management in the future. The plan is being developed by the project experts, additionally the relevant institutions – Nature Conservation Agency, JSC “Latvian State Forests”, and Lake Engure Nature Park Fund – are involved in discussing the proposed actions.
In 8 February 2018, a stakeholder meeting was held in Ķemeri, Jūrmala. The draft plan was discussed in detail by taking into account different practical aspects. A need for more detailed hydro-geological modelling, as well as alternatives for technical solutions in blocking the ditches and biotechnical measures were emphasized. In turn, the LIFE Peat Restore experts explained the proposed actions, their justification and practical aspects. The suggestions provided by the stakeholders will be carefully evaluated and taken into account to improve the plan.