Plieņciems Dune is one of the most unique coastal areas in Latvia – a specially protected nature area and part of the Natura 2000 network of European importance. Here, in Engure parish on the coast of the Gulf of Riga, is a rare coastal dune ridge with Latvia's only dune deflation hollow, which makes this area scientifically and ecologically very valuable. More than 80% of the 61.9 hectares are occupied by a biotope of European Union importance – wooded coastal dunes, which are home to protected species of plants, birds, invertebrates and reptiles.
It is precisely because of these natural riches that significant improvement and habitat restoration work has been carried out in Plieņciems, Engure Parish, in order to reduce the impact of human activity and at the same time ensure that everyone can explore the area without harming the environment.
A modern and environmentally friendly viewing infrastructure has been built on the Plieņciems dune: wooden footbridges, viewing platforms, stairs, signs and information stands. Benches, playground equipment and changing rooms have also been added to make recreation comfortable and organized.
Special attention has been paid to accessibility – one of the footbridges has been adapted for people with mobility impairments and families with prams. Special turning areas have been created along the route to ensure safe and convenient movement for all visitors. This infrastructure helps to direct visitors along specific routes and reduces accidental entry into sensitive dune ecosystems.
In order to improve the quality of the biotope, comprehensive management measures have been implemented in the area, based on the nature conservation plan for the “Plieņciema kāpa” nature reserve. Waste and compost piles have been collected, gray dunes have been cleaned, invasive and inappropriate shrubs and trees have been cut down, and the spread of invasive plants along the banks of the Plieņupe River has been limited.
Undergrowth and scrub have been cleared from the coastal dunes, and branch fences have been erected to help reduce sand erosion and protect the dune surface. These works are essential to preserve the natural structure of the dunes and ensure their sustainable development, so that this unique coastal ecosystem can continue to exist for future generations.
All these measures have been implemented as part of Cohesion Fund project No. 5.4.3.2./22/A/003 "Management measures and infrastructure development in the Plieņciema dune nature reserve." The total eligible costs of the project are EUR 389,328, of which 85% or EUR 330,929 is financed by the European Union Cohesion Fund.
This investment is a significant step towards protecting coastal ecosystems and educating the public about living in harmony with the environment.
Ministry of Smart Administration and Regional Development: “Plieņciema Dune is a special place on the Latvian coast, both in terms of its natural diversity and its scenic value. The infrastructure created with the support of the Cohesion Fund allows people to safely enjoy this environment, while preserving the values of the coastal ecosystem and restoring its ecological quality. This project proves that responsible nature conservation and accessible recreation can coexist, benefiting both nature and society.
The Plieņciems Dune is the largest open dune in Latvia, and its preservation is our common task. We invite visitors to:
use the wooden walkways and not to walk outside them,
not to cross the area with motorized vehicles,
not to litter on the banks of the Plieņupe River,
to follow the rules and respect the surrounding environment.
A careful attitude will ensure that the new infrastructure will serve for a long time and that the coastal nature will remain unchanged, beautiful and valuable in the future.
