Field trips

To enjoy and learn from the surroundings of Tartu, different fields trips were organised. The field trips took place on 8 June 2021.

Two sites were selected for the field trip:

1. Estonian Wetlands: A natural carbon sink and a source of biodiversity

2. Cultural landscapes and heritage in Lahemaa National Park

 

Field trip description

1. Estonian Wetlands: A natural carbon sink and a source of biodiversity

Number of participants: 15 minimum, 30 maximum

Time: 8:00 in front of Theatre Vanemuine (see conference online map)

Bogs and mires are one of the many treasures of Estonian Nature. One fifth of the total area of Estonia is covered by these unique ecosystems. With an average peat thickness of 3 to 6 meters, bogs are a large natural carbon sink, but also a biodiversity hotspot. In this field trip we will hike through a pristine bog in South Estonia: Meenikunno bog. We will learn about the main ecological features of the bogs, and their unique flora. From Meenikunno observation tower we will have a view over the bog complex.

Near Meenikunno bog we can find another unique landscape feature: A group of meteorite craters formed around 6600 years ago. The locals call them 'Hell's Grave', 'Deep Grave', 'The Devil's Grave' and 'Ghost Grave'. A short 15 minutes walk will take us to the ilumetsa craters through a mossy pine forest

Length: Meenikunno trail 5.8 km

What to bring:

Hiking boots or sturdy footwear. A lunch pack is included

2. Cultural landscapes and heritage in Lahemaa National Park

Number of participants: 15 minimum, 30 maximum

Time: 8:00 in front of Theatre Vanemuine (see conference online map)

Lahemaa National Park, located in North Estonia, was the first area to be designated a national park in the former Soviet Union. The park comprises an extraordinary mix of landscapes, including coastal cliffs, bogs, semi-natural meadows, lakes, rivers and waterfalls. In Lahemaa we can also find some of the finest examples of 18th century manor houses, such as Sagadi Manor or Palmse Manor.

The Lahemaa National Park fieldtrip will showcase how history and cultural practices have shaped landscapes in North Estonia. We will have short hikes through the main landscapes of the park, including Viru Bog and Oandu old-growth forest. We will visit a Manor house, where participants will learn about the history of Baltic nobility.

Finally we will get to know Imbi and Taavi Jaetma, the owners of Sae farm. Imbi and Taavi keep Estonian Native sheep grazing in several Natura 2000 semi-natural habitats. The main mission of the farm is to contribute to the preservation of the Estonian Native Sheep breed and the valuable semi-natural habitats as a part of the cultural heritage of Lahemaa National Park.

What to bring:

Comfortable outdoor clothing. A lunch pack is included.