Estonian Environmental Board launched a new website www.natparks.ee, where you can find information about Estonian national parks and other protected areas in Estonia. The website is available in English and Russian and includes information about the natural, historical and cultural heritage of Estonian protected areas, as well as events taking place there.

Environmental Board nature conservation advisor Kaja Lotman said:

„18,7% of mainland and 26% of water is under protected to maintain our unique nature. The nature conservation system in Estonia is over 100 years old and has become more complex over the years. However with this new website we are striving towards gathering all the relevant nature protection information into one portal and to explain the system to our local inhabitants and also visitors in an understandable language.“

The first phase of the website included Estonian national parks - Matsalu, Lahemaa, Karula, Vilsandi and Soomaa - and 5 most important protected areas (Alam-Pedja Nature Reserve, Endla Nature Reserve, Haanja Nature Park, Otepää Nature Parkand Viidumäe Nature Reserve). The selection of these protected areas is based on the multiplicity of public events, visitor capacity and the active participation of local inhabitants.

Visitors can easily have access to a calendar of activities of each protected areas. At the same time protected areas are invited to report directly their activities, in a process that Kaja Lotman believes will bring a better connection between people and nature.

„Our wish is that this website enhances cooperation between local communities, different stakeholders, visitors and nature conservation officials. We also hope that people comprehend why a certain area is under protection and how various stakeholders can facilitate the maintenance of values in these protected areas,“ explained Kaja Lotman.

The website is permanently being updated and other Estonian protected areas will be added soon.