Lithuanians planted 2 million trees
National Tree Planting Day took place in Lithuania on Saturday, April 23. This year, over 1500 Lithuanians participated in the event – more than ever before. They planted nearly 2000 acres of new forest in 50 plots throughout Lithuania, where no forest had grown before. In all, over two million birch, fir trees, pine, oak, mountain ash and alder saplings were planted.
The project was supported by various organizations, businesses, community groups and anyone who appreciates nature and wished to contribute to growing Lithuanian forests, which now cover 33.7% of the country. Participants ranged in age from toddlers to seniors, who braved heavy rainfall in some areas of the country. The forestry department encouraged everyone to remember their plantings and to visit them and observe their growth.
Forestry experts tell us that new plantings require checking by forestry personnel at least 60 times before they reach maturity. In autumn, the saplings will be treated with repellants to prevent damage from wild animals. For about 7 years, the plantars will be kept clear of weeds and overgrowth to allow the trees to grow stronger.
During the month of April the National Forestry Department will plant another 22,670 acres with 30 million saplings. Alkas.lt
