Nature Protection Area in the Heart of Helsinki

Two thousand five hundred pairs of birds representing one hundred and ten different species nesting in the heart of Helsinki?

As unbelievable as it may sound, it´s true! The Viikin-Vanhankaupunginlahti Nature Preserve covers over 250 hectares in the centre of Helsinki. It is an oasis not only for the thousands of birds and other wildlife living in the area, but also for people who want to take a relaxing break and enjoy the nature within their city.


Birdwatching in the Viikin-Vanhankaupunginlahti Nature Preserve almost in the heart of Helsinki.

Photo: Jari Aho

In August 1997, Centre of the Environment City of Helsinki launched a project to further develop the area and inform the citizens about it. The project is financed by the EU´s Life-fund, the Finnish Ministry of the Environment, Centre of the Environment City of Helsinki and Building and Construction Department of the City of Helsinki. The total budget for this three-year-project is close to 500 000 ECU.

The project aims at restoring blocked meadows to better correspond to the needs of especially shorebirds. Also, the need for cutting down reeds to create more open water areas as well as the effects of the nearby power line will be examined.

Information directed to the public shall be increased. This means producing general brochures and information packages for distinct target groups as well as scientific reports. New information boards are to be erected in the area, and the number of guided, free-of- charge excursions shall be increased.

As the number of visitors is expected to rise due to enhanced promotion, action will also be taken to guarantee the ecological durability of the area and nesting peace for the animals inhabiting it. This means building two new towers for birdwatching in addition to an additional nature trail for visitors and employing a guide for the summer season.

For further information, please contact Ms Camilla von Bonsdorff at the Centre of the Environment City of Helsinki, fax: +358 9 7312 2675.

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