Zilaiskalns has historically been a special place for nature lovers and those who go there to regain emotional peace and balance. That is why the implementation of the Cohesion Fund project "Reducing anthropogenic pressure and implementing complex management measures in the Zilaiskalns nature reserve" became an opportunity to responsibly transform the area, while preserving its natural value and making it more accessible to visitors.
This project created an opportunity to take a step closer to sustainable nature management – protecting specially protected biotopes and species, while also offering residents and visitors convenient, environmentally friendly infrastructure. That is why a publicly accessible observation tower was built at the top of Zilaiskalns and a health trail was created, which guides visitors through nature in an environmentally friendly way.
During the project, a modern tourism and nature education infrastructure was created, with priority given to the preservation of habitats and species. To reduce human impact, the health trail takes visitors along the western side of the hill, past the Zilaiskalns cultural history and visitor center, thus evening out visitor traffic and reducing soil erosion.
Another important step was the dismantling of the old fire observation tower. A new observation tower has been built in its place, which is not only safe and visually harmonious with the landscape, but also offers a wide panorama of forests and meadows – a view that often becomes the most vivid experience of this place for visitors.
The project also included ecologically significant habitat restoration work – diversifying the forest structure, removing old pine trees, increasing the amount of dead wood, and restoring the soil. These measures have improved the quality of the habitat over an area of approximately 64 hectares, promoting the restoration of the natural ecosystem.
This project is not the only step towards strengthening natural values. During the current European Union (EU) fund planning period, local governments have also been given the opportunity to apply for EU funding to develop nature conservation plans for specially protected nature areas and to implement protection and management measures in Natura 2000 areas. The regulations approved by the Cabinet of Ministers provide support for measures that help to reconcile the interests of nature conservation, regional development and resource use, thereby promoting the sustainable management of natural resources and the preservation of biological diversity.
Zilaiskalns – natural and cultural value
The Zilaiskalns Nature Reserve, established in 2004, is one of the most recognizable natural and cultural sites in the North Vidzeme Biosphere Reserve. Its 118-hectare territory is important for the preservation of two habitats of European significance – slope and ravine forests, as well as boreal forests. Many protected species live here, making Zilaiskalns a special center of natural diversity.
The project was implemented by the Valmiera District Municipality in cooperation with AS Latvijas valsts meži (Latvian State Forests) and the State Forest Service, ensuring a professional approach and scientifically based solutions. The work was carried out within the framework of Cohesion Fund project No. 5.4.3.2/22/A/006. The total cost of the project was EUR 1,227,619, of which 85% was covered by the Cohesion Fund. More than EUR 1 million was invested directly in the construction of the observation tower and the creation of the health trail – stairs, rest areas and amenities.
Ministry of Smart Administration and Regional Development: "Zilaiskalns is an excellent example of how thoughtful planning and a respectful attitude towards the environment can ensure both the preservation of biodiversity and a high-quality recreational experience for people. The project demonstrates sustainability by ensuring the preservation of natural values and the careful use of the territory.
Today, Zilaiskalns is a place that reflects the harmony between natural values and human presence. It is a story of cooperation, science, and responsible action—about the ability to preserve and restore what is unique. The project is proof that nature conservation is not an obstacle to development, but rather its foundation.
More about the project (in Latvian): https://www.valmierasnovads.lv/zilakalna-atverts-jauns-skatu-tornis-un-veselibas-taka/
