Žemaitijos nacionalinis parkas

Žemaitija National Park (ŽNP) was established in 1991 with the aim of preserving, managing and sustainably developing those areas of Žemaitija in north-western Lithuania, that are most valued for their natural and cultural qualities.

The Park's goals are: to conserve the main system of lakes and forests in Žemaitija, the existing cultural heritage and restore the damaged parts; to carry out scientific research, data collection and regular monitoring of the Park's environment and ethnic and cultural heritage; to cherish the cultural traditions of Žemaitija; to disseminate ideas and knowledge of environmental protection; to encourage traditional forms of farming; to promote appropriate recreation activities, and primarily cognitive tourism.

Park in numbers:

The total area is 21,720 ha: woodlands occupy 9683 ha (44,6%), water - 1857 ha (8,5%), wetlands - 963 ha (4,4%), natural meadows and pastures - 1614 ha (7,4%), farmlands - 6794 ha (31,3%), settlements - 360 ha (1,7%), other - 449 ha (2,1%).

The territory of Žemaitija national park is divided into the following functional zones: conservation (10460 ha, 48,1%), protection (3,140 ha, 15%), recreation (520 ha, 2%), farming (7,600 ha, 35%).

The Total Population is 3,500. There are 2 small towns (boroughs) and 53 villages.

1252 species of plants,66 of them are in the Red book Lithuania.
739 species of mushrooms, 50 of them are in the Red book Lithuania.
1975 species of animals, 79 of them are in the Red book Lithuania.
12 natural monuments: 4 botanical,5 hydrographical, 1 geomorphological, 2 hydro-geological.