Compensation available for damage caused by 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 (hereinafter – the Board) for compensation for damage caused by migratory species, such as geese and cranes.

The Nature Conservation Board has already received the first applications in March and reminds that compensation applications should be submitted as soon as possible after the damage is detected, so that experts can assess the situation and decide on the extent of the damage and the award of compensation. The first application received is for damage caused by geese to winter wheat.

“The experience of previous years shows that geese and cranes are the most common causes of damage to crops. The most frequently damaged crops in 2018 were field beans and winter wheat. The amount of compensation depends on the damaged crop and the area of damage. The amount of compensation paid in 2018 ranged from 307 to 533 euros per hectare,” says Ģirts Baranovskis, leading expert of the Department of Strategic Management and Coordination of the Administration.

In order to receive compensation, protective measures must be implemented at the site of the damage to prevent damage, for example, visual or acoustic deterrents must be installed. It is important that the landowner contacts the Administration as soon as possible so that the extent of the damage can be recorded in nature.

Fishermen who have suffered losses from piscivorous bird species and otters, as well as beekeepers whose farms have been damaged by bears, can also apply for compensation.

A more detailed explanation of the compensation award procedure and calculations, as well as the application form, is available for download. On the administration's website.

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

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.

Source: Nature Conservation Authority