Caring for Nature Together with the Ketosirkka Project

In summer 2025, Nordkalk continued nature management work across Finland. In Pargas and Vimpeli, the work followed the same model as last year, and in addition, a new collaboration was launched with the Ketosirkka project of the Finnish Association for Nature Conservation’s Uusimaa District, covering Tytyri, Mustio and Sipoo.

Diverse vegetation thrives on open calcareous rock meadows.

Small but important habitats

In and around Nordkalk’s operating areas there are many calcareous rock habitats, which are rare and highly endangered in Finland. Lime-rich soil provides a home for many demanding species that cannot thrive elsewhere.

A Shared Goal: A thriving natural environment

The Ketosirkka project aims to protect species-rich habitat types such as traditional rural biotopes and calcareous rocky meadows. When these areas become overgrown, many rare plant species lose their living space. Through active management, the landscapes are kept open and the habitats remain diverse.

In Tytyri and Mustio, the focus was on keeping the rocky meadows open, while in Sipoo efforts also targeted the removal of invasive alien species. This gives valuable native species more room and light to grow.

A rocky meadow in Mustio before and after clearing.

Can You Recognise These Lime-Loving Species?

Several plants favour lime-rich soil. Here are a few examples of species supported by the management work:

Asplenium trichomanes subsp. quadrivalens – a rare fern growing in rock crevices.

Epipactis helleborine – a striking orchid found in shady groves.

Origanum vulgare – a familiar herb, important for pollinators in the wild.

Results through collaboration

Nordkalk aims to promote biodiversity and care for vibrant environments in its areas of operation. The collaboration with the Ketosirkka project is a good example of this commitment.

Teresa Lindholm
Environmental Manager
Nordkalk