Minister of the Environment Ville Niinistö of the Green Party held a speech during the opening ceremonies of the Southern Konnevesi park, expressing gratitude for the change in atmosphere concerning national parks.
“Today, more and more country municipalities see national parks as a positive endeavour with widespread appeal, and which can strengthen local economies and help create jobs,” Niinistö said.
”An entire region’s identity is now more often linked to its national park. It is something to be proud of and to show off to visitors.”
The Southern Konnevesi National Park was declared such in June, and the opening ceremonies are being held from Oct 13 to Oct 14. The area is particularly rich in endangered species that are dependent on rocky habitats or decaying wood, according to the English Metsähallitus page.
Finland’s newest addition to the national park network will work to preserve nature by safeguarding its ancient evergreen forests and wilderness beaches.