Old-growth Forest Reserves

Old-growth forests in Finland are coniferous forests (consisting of spruce and pine) that have remained in their natural state. Typical features of these forests are trees of different ages, an abundance of decaying trees and a continual chain of small changes. There are often other old trees like birch and aspen in these forests as well.

Especially in the southern half of Finland many forests are used for forestry and there are few old-growth forests in their natural state. It is important to protect the remaining old-growth forests in order to preserve their ecosystems and biodiversity.

There are 73 old-growth forest reserves established on state-owned lands. Their combined area measures 77 sq.km.

Walking in old-growth forest reserves is permitted as an Everyman’s Right but camping and lighting campfires are forbidden.