Protected Plants and Animals
There are some valuable ridge areas in the Lappeenranta-Imatra area, where certain rare plants and animals can be found. The vegetation and birdlife of the area were mapped out in summer 2001. The distribution areas of rare plants will be marked and protected throughout the road construction. If necessary, vegetation can be relocated.
The Ukonhaudat Ridge area, near main road 6 in Joutseno, is a part of the Natura 2000 network. However, the road construction will not reach the Natura area and it will not diminish the nature conservation value of the area.
Among the protected plants growing on the ridge areas are the spring anemone, the broad-leaved helleborine and the lesser butterfly orchid. The road construction will affect the habitat of these plants to some extent, but for the main part, the growth habitat will remain outside the road area.
