During
our visit (15.1.2000) to Miilukangas and other parts of Pylkömäki
we found, in the areas now being discussed, relatively old forests
significantly more valuable than the normal forests of the region.
It is difficult to say anything about Miilukangas itself, as it has
been shattered by loggings during the winter.
A short
trip by ski revealed the area closeby to contain populations of both
siberian jay and Haploporus odorus fungi, neither of which is found
in normal forests of the region. Already this says much about the
value of these areas. In the same forest section bordered by managed
forests we found also capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus), treecreeper
(Certhia familiaris) and crested tit (Parus cristatus), which are
all species preferring old forests.
The forests
on the moor west of Miilukangas, as those at Lepikkokangas and the
forest patch west of Mäkelänkytö, are relatively old, mixed forests
dominated by coniferous trees. The areas contain moderate amounts
of dead trees, single standind dead trees, large burnt standing tree
stubs and a ground layer of trees. Sufficient time has passed from
the previous fellings or other forestry activities that no traces
of these can be found, at least not in winter. All of the above areas
are rapidly developing into even more valuable natural forests.
Forests
such as these have a great significance for, among other things, the
old-growth favouring bird fauna of the region. Together, the areas
form a quite coherent entity, which due to its size might even ensure
the preservation of the siberian jay in the area. Preserving forests
like these should today be self-evident.
We therefore
state that the old-growth areas in question should be left outside
economic forest management procedures.
Risto
Sulkava, birdlife protection officer of the Suomenselkä Ornithological
Association
