In the LIFE project REEF (LIFE19 NAT/LV/000973), researchers have identified three potential Natura 2000 marine areas in Latvia’s exclusive economic zone: Zēģelnieku shoal (near Ventspils), Alku shoal (near Pāvilosta) and Papes kalva (near Liepāja). The project is running from 1 September 2020 to 31 August 2025.
According to the results presented in the project, habitats of Community interest 1170 Rocky reefs (approximately 504 km²) and 1110 Sandbanks (approximately 74.5 km²) have been mapped. The research was conducted using side-scan and multibeam sonars, underwater video and diver samples.
The identified areas partially overlap or border the research areas for offshore wind farms specified in the Maritime Spatial Plan 2030.
The Ministry of Smart Administration and Regional Development has announced that the update of the Maritime Spatial Plan 2030 is planned, based on the latest research, including the results of LIFE REEF.
Sources: REEF projekts; prezentācija “Jūras biotopu izpētes darbi”; Ministry of Smart Administration and Regional Development (Republic of Latvia), 01.10.2024.; Maritime Spatial Plan 2030; Interim Assessment of the Maritime Spatial Plan 2030 2019-2030)