Let’s get to know the people behind FutureScapes better. This time, the five questions are answered by Kadri Runnel, head of our Ecosystem Management Team.
Kadri Runnel, head of FutureScapes Ecosystem Management Team.
1. Describe in one sentence what your working group works on at FutureScapes.
We have two main roles. First: to organize large and systematic datasets on the biodiversity and forest structure of Estonian forests. These are used as input for spatial modelling. Second: to carry out biodiversity and forest structure measurements within the centre’s network of experimental sites.
2. What do you think is currently the biggest challenge in land use in Estonia?
As a forest ecologist: the increasing intensity of logging pressure on Estonian forests.
3. Why is Estonia a good place to live?
Estonia is small and green, and there is plenty of space here. And the forests are special and diverse. Every walk in the forest is like an adventure story: how did this landscape become what it is, and what was here before?
4. Millist raamatut soovitaksid kindlasti lugeda?
Iida Turpeinen’s “Surelikud”. While reading it, I was very surprised by how mature and deeply thoughtful the book is about the nature of conservation.
5. Which place in Estonia would you definitely recommend visiting, and why?
Alutaguse eskers and Padakõrve Nature Reserve near Alatskivi. The reason is the same: natural forest landscapes where you can observe the patchwork of our hemiboreal forests — bog woodlands, herb-rich forests, groves, and dry pine forests side by side. These places offer a great opportunity to experience the diversity and uniqueness of Estonian forests.