Suomen luonnonsuojeluliitto

Suomen luonnonsuojeluliitto, SLL (The Finnish Association for Nature Conservation) has been active since 1938, but its Saimaa ringed seal conservation work gained momentum in the 1980s and 1990s, first carried out by its district organizations in the Lake Saimaa region. Since 2008, Suomen luonnonsuojeluliitto has had a designated Saimaa ringed seal employee and an active and planned Saimaa ringed seal conservation work strategy, since then further bolstered by partnerships and seal conservation projects.

The association’s multifaceted approach includes distributing seal-safe fish traps to fishers in the Lake Saimaa region to encourage them to stop using fishing nets hazardous to the seals, giving out “stoppers” to fish traps with loose openings to prevent pups from entering dangerous fish traps, constructing artificial snowdrifts during mild winters to support newborn survival, and advocating for restrictions on shoreline development and human activity during the sensitive pupping season. Their outreach extends to schools, public events, and summer programs, fostering awareness and stewardship among younger generations. They also collaborate with scientists and other conservation specialists to monitor population trends, nesting success, and emerging threats.

As Finland’s largest and oldest environmental NGO, Suomen luonnonsuojeluliitto plays a vital role in shaping national conservation policy, protecting biodiversity, and mobilizing citizen action. Their work with the Saimaa ringed seal is just one example of their enduring commitment to safeguarding Finland’s natural heritage.