The location of Someron Koirametsä near wind turbines
Careful consideration of Someron Koirametsä’s location and environmental factors was an essential part of its planning. Before making the final decision on the location of the dog forest, we had two concerns that we wanted to investigate further for the sake of the dogs: the impact of the Palma wind farm on this area and the likelihood of encountering vipers in the forest.
Assessing the impact of wind turbines
We carefully weighed the proximity of the Palma wind turbines and, above all, the soundscape they create. According to the Finnish Wind Power Association, there is no legally defined minimum distance between wind turbines and residential areas in Finland. Still, the evaluation of the impacts primarily considers the amount of noise and, to some extent, the shadow flicker caused by the rotating blades.
When considering the impact of wind turbine noise on dogs, we contacted Ilmatar, read studies on wind turbine noise, and conducted a survey among dog owners walking their dogs near wind farms elsewhere in Finland. The results of our inquiries were encouraging. Our own dogs paid attention to the wind turbines the first time they visited the area, but after that, they have not been bothered by them.
In evaluating the noise, we also compared this forest to another plot of forest located next to a major road and found this location to be significantly quieter. Traffic noise is barely audible here. Additionally, there are no houses or cottages in the immediate vicinity of this area, so the dog forest should not cause excessive disturbance to neighbors either.
What about vipers
Vipers were another concern when we were considering a suitable location for the dog forest. Vipers are generally not aggressive and tend to avoid people and dogs, but their bite can be dangerous. Although everyone visits the area at their own risk, it was important to us that the dog forest was not located in an area where encounters with vipers are likely.
When considering the location of the dog forest, we compared this area to habitats typical for vipers. According to the Kyyatlas (Viper Atlas), vipers thrive at the boundary of two different environments, such as a rocky forest near a field or meadow. They are also found at the edges of swamps and in grassy areas of clear-cuts and young forests. These areas are characterized by abundant sunlight, which is vital for the diurnal vipers. Vipers have a relatively small territory where they spend their entire lives. The most important part of their territory is the hibernation site, which they leave every spring and return to in the fall to hibernate. Summer areas are usually only a few hundred meters from the hibernation site.
The southern slopes of Palma and the nearby fields are particularly favorable habitats for snakes. However, Someron Koirametsä is located along Tuulivoimatie in an area that is quite shaded, with old forest and no fields. Although snakes can always appear, we do not believe that this location is ideal for them.
We have not observed any vipers in this area, and we have cleared many piles of sticks and branches as a precaution. However, if you do notice a viper on the ground, leash your dog and remove it from the situation. Report your sighting to us as soon as possible so that we can relocate the snake. Also, read the guidelines for viper bites, such as those from Evidensia. Currently, the recommendation is that dogs should not be given snakebite tablets (kyytabletti in Finnish) unless they are experiencing breathing difficulties from a bite to the head area. Instead, the dog should be taken to a veterinarian as soon as possible.
While we have conducted thorough research and taken precautions, it is important for dog owners visiting in the area to always remain vigilant. When Someron Koirametsä opens, we wish everyone safe and enjoyable moments there!
