National Forest Programme 2010 – Multiple Use of Forests.

The National Forest Programme 2010 is a strategic action plan approved by the Council of State. The programme aims to develop the management, use and protection of forests as one entity, as an extensive forest sector. The National Forest Programme is carried out through the measures of the regional forest programmes. The regional forest councils monitor the realisation of the aims and direct the activities. The significance of the programmes is measured through the practical work. In North Ostrobothnia, a clear link has been established between the forest programme and rural development. METSO is the Forest Biodiversity Programme for Southern Finland that complements the National Forest Programme. METSO is looking for new solutions for ensuring biodiversity in addition to traditional conservation. There are about 15,000 forest estates in Kainuu out of which only about 1,200 still practice also agriculture or farming. When agriculture or farming ends other substituting sources of income must usually be found. More extensive utilisation of forestry and other secondary sources of income provide an opportunity for the estate to remain habited and in active use.