The project “Green Stories. Society education and raising public awareness on the importance of flora to humanity” (No. LL-00188) brings together two partners – the Directorate of Aukštaitija National Park and Labanoras Regional Park in Lithuania, and Daugavpils University in Latvia. Together, they pursue a shared goal: through science, knowledge, and practical activities, to help society, especially children and youth, rediscover the importance of plants in human life and to strengthen a responsible relationship with nature.
During the past six months, Daugavpils University has implemented significant project activities in which natural sciences are closely intertwined with education, infrastructure improvement, and community engagement.
Plant Research – Knowledge That Becomes Education
One of the key project activities was a comprehensive inventory of rare plant species in the project areas of Lithuania and Latvia. The research was carried out in protected territories – Aukštaitija National Park, Labanoras Regional Park, and Silene Nature Park, including Ilgas Manor Park.
Experts not only compiled lists of rare species, but also prepared detailed descriptions, analysed their habitats, and provided recommendations on how these species could be presented in educational exhibitions and learning activities. The collected material will also serve as the basis for preparing catalogues of rare plants and developing engaging, scientifically grounded content for visitors.
“Ilgas” – An Open Space for Learning from Nature
During the project, the Daugavpils University Study and Research Centre “Ilgas” has been further adapted for learning in nature. An outdoor classroom has been installed, making it possible to organise activities for larger groups of students and schoolchildren directly in a natural environment.
Here, education takes place not in lecture halls, but among trees, meadows, and natural habitats—allowing participants to experience biodiversity first-hand and understand the importance of plants in everyday life.
Renewed Trails Invite Exploration
More than half a kilometre of educational trails in the centre have also been restored and improved. They have been adapted for visitors, with wooden footbridges installed across wet areas and information stands presenting the plant, insect, bird, and tree species found in the territory.
This is not only an infrastructure upgrade—it is an invitation for visitors to walk, observe, read, ask questions, and learn through direct experience.
Activities Continue: From Research to a Sustainable Relationship with Nature
In the upcoming stages, further management of the greenery in Ilgas Manor Park is planned to improve tree condition, safety, and biological value, alongside the implementation of new educational activities based on the methodological materials developed during the project.
These initiatives will help young people and local communities better understand the importance of plant conservation and foster a long-term, sustainable attitude toward the environment.
