Biologist Myyri Sysivesi raises alarm over logging impact on Hukkajoki River in Finland

In mid-August, biologist Myyri Sysivesi witnessed a logging machine crossing the protected Hukkajoki River, sparking significant environmental concerns. Sysivesi captured the incident on video, leading to widespread media attention and public discourse regarding highly endangered freshwater mussels.

At the time, Sysivesi was cataloging species along the river when the machinery crossed directly over it. This incident has prompted discussions about the impact of logging on vulnerable mussel populations. Recent investigations revealed similar damage at another Stora Enso site in Kainuu, which the Finnish Forest Administration had anticipated due to numerous reported incidents over the years. Sysivesi noted signs of machinery crossing mussel streams, confirming her suspicions.

“I was shocked but not entirely surprised. On the flip side, I was excited that we now have concrete evidence of this happening,” she stated. Previous incidents had gone largely unnoticed, but Sysivesi is grateful that the Hukkajoki case has ignited broader societal dialogue.

Many are expressing frustration over the current government’s forestry policies, particularly regarding the classification of old-growth forests and protective measures. The recommended buffer zone around mussel rivers is 45 meters, but Stora Enso failed to comply near Hukkajoki, leaving only a 10-meter buffer.

Sysivesi advocates for legislative change, asserting that recommendations alone are insufficient. “Even if the environment minister suggests following guidelines, it hasn’t been effective thus far. We need legal protections and oversight to prevent such occurrences.”

With the endangered mussel populations struggling in many rivers, Sysivesi remains hopeful that the Hukkajoki incident will lead to a significant positive shift in perceptions and treatment of forests. “Now that people are awakening to the realities of logging practices, I hope this leads to real change in how we treat our woodlands.”