Compensation available for damage to migratory birds

Migratory birds often cause damage to various agricultural crops during spring and autumn migration, and to cover this, farmers have the opportunity to apply to the Nature Conservation Board for compensation for damage caused by non-hunted species, such as geese, cranes, cormorants, etc.

The Nature Conservation Board has already received the first applications this spring and reminds that applications for compensation should be made as soon as possible after the damage is discovered, so that experts can assess the situation and decide on the extent of the damage and the award of compensation.

“Last year, the most frequently damaged crop in agriculture was winter wheat – 47% of reported cases and field beans – 27%. Peas, oats, summer barley and rapeseed were also damaged. In turn, geese (82% of reported cases), as well as swans and cranes, caused the majority of the damage,” says the Head of the Compensation Administration Department of the Administration Girts Baranovskis.

Fishermen who have suffered losses from piscivorous bird species and otters can also apply for compensation. Beekeepers whose beehives have been damaged by bears can also receive compensation.

G. Baranovsky emphasizes: “In order to receive compensation, protective measures must have been implemented at the site of the damage to prevent damage, for example, visual or acoustic deterrents must have been installed.”

Naturalists explain that geese and swans are migratory birds that gather in large flocks and periodically stop during their travels to rest, eat, and weather adverse weather conditions. Migrating to and from wintering grounds is a very “expensive” event for birds – it requires a lot of energy. Therefore, such regular stopping places are very important for birds to be able to reach their travel destination. In environments changed by humans – agricultural lands, migratory birds settle because they lack natural feeding and resting places, as well as in cultivated areas, food is more easily available to birds.

A more detailed explanation of the compensation award procedure and calculations, as well as the application form for download, is available on the Authority's website: https://www.daba.gov.lv/public/lat/pakalpojumi/#kompensacijas/.

The application can be submitted by sending it by mail, in person at the Department, as well as by e-mail, signed with a secure electronic signature. Additional information is available at the Nature Conservation Department by calling: 67509766 or by e-mail: nature@daba.gov.lv.