In September last year, the Finnish Forest Centre opened an observation site in Liutula, Ylistaro, on EPV Alueverkko’s 110 kV transmission line area. The site showcases practical ways to make use of power line corridors. It includes various observation plots designed to enhance local flora and fauna through plantings and feeding stations.
The site is part of the “Forestry and Wind Power” project implemented by the Forest Centre, aiming to promote the beneficial use of power line corridors in South and Central Ostrobothnia. The project has been funded by the European Regional Development Fund, private companies, and municipalities.
A unique site on a national scale
Liutula’s observation site consists of 20 plots along a 300-meter-long woodchip-covered trail. Each plot has its own sign explaining its purpose. The plots feature diverse elements, such as Christmas tree plantations, blueberry and sea buckthorn bushes, a wetland, duck nesting tubes, a game field, and an insect hotel.
“This scale of observation site does not exist anywhere else in Finland. The purpose is to comprehensively demonstrate the potential uses of power line corridors, which are typically left unused,” says project manager Jussi Laurila from the Forest Centre.
The plots have been designed with power line safety in mind. Visitors are provided with safety instructions to ensure they do not approach transmission line structures intentionally, explains Juha Viirimäki, an expert at the Forest Centre.
Ideal conditions for the observation trail
Why was EPV Alueverkko’s transmission line area chosen? The idea came from Viirimäki, who became the landowner of the corridor in July 2022 through a forest plot acquisition.
“I noticed the area was exceptional: it had natural elevation differences, old juniper growth, and an existing wetland, all supporting diverse development. Soil samples confirmed nutrient-rich conditions for planting. These factors reduced costs since minimal soil preparation was needed. Additionally, a forest road runs alongside the site, making access and maintenance easier,” Viirimäki explains.
The project began in November 2023 with clearing work for a future game field. Construction started in May 2024, and the trail was mostly completed by the end of summer. This summer, finishing touches were made, including installing signs.
The Forest Centre contacted EPV Alueverkko early in the planning phase and obtained the necessary crossing permit. Cooperation with EPV Alueverkko was excellent throughout the project, Laurila notes.
Promoting biodiversity through multi-use solutions
The main goal is to showcase methods for utilizing power line corridors while enhancing surrounding nature.
“The site demonstrates how corridors can be used for growing useful plants and providing food for various species. This is increasingly relevant as more power lines are built alongside growing wind power production,” Laurila says.
The concept has attracted significant interest since the trail opened. The opening event on September 4 drew over a hundred visitors, and groups have continued to visit throughout autumn, especially landowners.
“Feedback highlights how visitors have realized the potential of power line corridors. The idea is that landowners can adopt any concept, such as planting Christmas trees, which adds biodiversity and provides small economic benefits,” Viirimäki says.
The site has sparked nationwide recognition, and Laurila and Viirimäki are pleased that its benefits are already widely recognized.
“The attention shows there is demand for such concepts, especially in areas where terrain is harsh and unused. The site illustrates that anyone can contribute to biodiversity with relatively small efforts,” Laurila concludes.
In the main photo, Juha Viirimäki is on the left and Jussi Laurila is on the right.