www.pefcwatch.org > reindeer herding and forestry > logging in homelands of the Sámi > logging in 2004-2005 > Paadarskaidi in Muotkatunturi reindeer herding co-operative

Reindeer grazing forests being logged in 2005 in Inari, North Finland, Sámi area: Paadarskaidi

Area code in maps prepared by reindeer herders and NGOs: Inari 01, Muotkatunturi

Photosin thi page: Paadarskaidi old-growth forests, photographed 16 October 2005 by Greenpeace. Logging by Metsähallitus started in the area on the same week, ie week 42.

Metsähallitus refused to negotiate with the Sámi reindeer herding co-operative of Muotkatunturi about the logging plans. The reindeer herders were only notified about logging. There was no negotiations whatsoever. This happens despite of the fact that Metsähallitus is by law obliged to negotiate with the reindeer herders.

Forest that are been logged in autumn 2005 are partially earlier logged areas, partially logging however is taking place in intact old-growth forests that have never been logged before.

The forests in Paadarskaidi are of crucial importance for reindeer herding livelihood. Old-growth forests are important winter grazing grounds, as they are rich with both ground-growing lichen and tree-hanging lichen.

There are tens of IUCN-classified red-listed thereatened bracket fungi species in the forests that are now being logged.