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The biodiversity of Estonia, and indeed of Europe as a whole, is fundamentally linked to its agricultural landscapes. Unfortunately due to intensive agricultural practices, Estonia’s diverse landscapes have been replaced by monoculture fields.

Finally, a cooperation between University of Tartu researchers and farmers interested in sustainable farming practices has been launched, testing different practices combining food production and nature conservation, with the aim of increasing soil fertility, enhancing pollination, increasing field biodiversity and promoting natural pest control.

The Estonian Environmental Board has begun working on its restoration efforts: a newly published tender is also looking for restorers for the coastal meadows in Aandi, Laheküla, Tohvri, Tärkma II, the project area of Taguküla islands in Hiiu County, Tahu project area in Lääne County and Rootsivere on the island Saarem

If we had to name one project that took off right from the start, it would be the restoration of amphibian breeding waters. This year, seven small water bodies were added to Ropka-Ihaste Nature Reserve, 15 to Otepää Nature Park and one to Alatskivi Landscape Reserve.

Starting this summer, we will be experimenting with innovative methods to combat four invasive alien species - reynoutria, goldenrods, false spiraea, and the snowberry. In addition to the usual mowing and trimming, we treat invasive species with hot steam and herbicide, cover them with durable geotextile and shred plants with a chain shredder.

In the framework of the "LIFE IP ForEst&FarmLand" project, the University of Tartu Landscape Biodiversity Workgroup has completed a guide on, planting hedges and shrub strips, aiming to provide recommendations on how to increase biodiversity in agricultural landscapes.

From September 12 to 14, the Baltic and Scandinavian people could be seen in Nuuksio National Park, interacting with each other vividly and exploring the natural treasures of the area. The annual meeting of the LIFE project teams from the Baltic States and Scandinavia was held to promote cooperation between the countries, exchange experiences and provide orientation on the new rules of the LIFE programme.