Salamajärvi National Park. 02/02/04; Western Finland; 9,261 ha; 63°15'N 024°45'E. Natura 2000 SPA, SCI, National Park, Finnish Mire Conservation Programme. A complex of mires and water bodies of pristine character, representing the diversity of the aapa mire type. The forests are mostly barren and stony, dominated by pine. Threatened species include the Brown Beak Sedge and Early Marsh-orchid as well as the near-threatened moss species Sphagnum subnitens. Breeding waterfowls are abundant, including more than 400 pairs of 13 wader species, and the site also supports several endangered mammal species such as otter, wolverine and Wild Forest Reindeer, which was re-introduced to the area in the 1970s. Ditches of drained areas, which were dug in the past, are still affecting the quality of running waters in some parts of the site. In 1985 a master plan for the National Park was established, and restoration of mires was carried out under an EU Life project in the 1990s by filling ditches and cutting trees. The different tourist facilities, like accommodation cabins, camping sites, an observation tower and a network of trails, have been accepted very well in recent years. Ramsar site no. 1530. Most recent RIS information: 2005.

Last publication date: 01-01-2005