Forests
Latvian forests are located in a mixed forest zone consisting of northern coniferous and southern deciduous trees. You will find a pine forest next to a linden tree forest, and throughout a diverse spectrum of other species. Because of the unique climate and terrain nearly one quarter of Latvia's forests grow on wetlands. Many plant and animal species which can only survive in constant habitats have found a home here. It is the existence of the wetlands forests that insures a high standard of biological diversity. About 10% of Latvia's forests meet the criteria for a natural forest. Latvia's forests also harbor a rich supply of berries, wild strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and loganberries. The berry-picking season lasts from late June until late September. It is also the time for gathering mushrooms. The most popular mushrooms are the edible boletus, orange cap boletus, chanterelles and rusulla. If in the 1930s Latvia was known for its butter and bacon exports, then today it is known for its export of chanterelles. Apart from clearly marked private lands, the wealth of Latvia's forests, berries, mushrooms and hazelnuts is accessible to anyone.
Text: Valdis Pilats, The Gauja National Park
Photographers: A.Eglitis, J.Pigoznis, V.Pilats, J.Zalans
© The Latvian Institute, 1999-2000
This fact sheet can be freely printed from homepage of the Latvian Institute, distributed and cited, on condition that the Latvian Institute is acknowledged as the source. The Latvian Institute is a non-profit organisation (a State Corporation with limited liability) established to promote knowledge about Latvia abroad. It produces publications, in several languages, on many aspects of Latvia.
