L-8. Aitatsivaara, municipality of Salla, Pohjois-Salla reindeer herding co-operative

Finding: old-growth forest logging allowed and planned

The forests of Aitatsivaara are old-growth forests situated in high altitude areas (over 300 metres above the sea level). Logging in high altitude forests has been criticized widely by researchers and specialists because the regeneration of the forest in such conditions is uncertain.

Tens of hectares in Aitatsivaara were logged (in February-March 2000), and more logging is due in the winter of 2000-2001 by the FPS. Local reindeer herders oppose the logging.

Source of information: The Finnish Nature League field trips and discussions with reindeer herders and other local people, information given by the FPS, newspapers and local radio stations.

More information available: An announcement of the Northern Salla Reindeer Herders to the Forest and Park Service opposing the planned loggings in the Naruska-Tuntsa - area June 22, 1998 (appendix 9).

Probable buyer of the timber: StoraEnso

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L-8. Aitatsivaara, municipality of Salla, Pohjois-Salla reindeer herding co-operative
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