On June 20 this year, the first Latvian Fund for Nature Open meadow day of the summer will take place in the Abava Valley Nature Park, in Kandava parish, at the farm of nature farmers Linda and Jānis Priednieki. The event invites anyone interested to get closer to natural grasslands and discover their biodiversity and restoration story. The event is suitable for families with children, groups of friends, and anyone who appreciates nature.
During the day, visitors will have the opportunity to experience meadows in full bloom and learn how they are managed on the farm. The morning will begin with coffee at 10:00, followed by a session from 10:30 to 11:30 where Linda and Jānis Priednieki, together with Latvian Fund for Nature grassland expert Baiba Strazdiņa, will share their experience in managing and restoring semi-natural grasslands. From 11:30 until 13:30, participants will be invited to join a guided walk through the blooming meadows with experts. The day will conclude from 14:00 to 16:00 with a picnic hosted by traditional Latvian hostess Kitija Švīgere, a Midsummer wreath-making workshop led by Linda Priedniece, and informal closing discussions.
Photo: E. Fimbauere
Open meadow days introduce visitors to nature farmers – landowners and managers who, alongside their agricultural activities, actively care for the preservation and restoration of natural values. Natural grasslands are among the most biologically rich ecosystems in Latvia, and their conservation requires purposeful management.
Linda and Jānis Priednieki have been managing and restoring semi-natural grasslands in the Abava Valley for several years, while also preserving the cultural and historical heritage of the Kurzeme region. Their farm is a place where nature meets creativity – alongside meadow management, it hosts art workshops, educational excursions, and Linda’s ceramics studio, creating an environment where conservation is intertwined with creative and educational activities.
Photo: E. Fimbauere
Open meadow days are an opportunity to meet people who work daily to preserve biodiversity, gain a deeper understanding of natural grassland ecosystems, and acquire practical knowledge on how to establish natural meadows on your own land.
Participation in the event is free of charge; however, prior registration is required by filling out the form: https://ej.uz/plavudienaabavassenleja.
Address of the farm is Tukums Municipality, Kandava Parish, “Priedītes”: https://maps.app.goo.gl/x8QWYTtCFRXaUb8j9.
The event is supported by the Latvian Fund for Nature project “GrassLIFE2: Restoration of Priority Grassland Habitats of European Union Importance and Promotion of Their Diverse Use”. The project is funded by the European Union LIFE Programme and the Ministry of Smart Administration and Regional Development.