Environmentally sensitive areas

Areas that are sensitive in terms of natural values and traditional livelihoods have been marked on the maps of Enontekiö, Inari, and Utsjoki. Metsähallitus recommends avoiding motorized travel outside designated snowmobile routes and tracks in these areas during late winter. The areas marked on the maps are particularly vulnerable to disturbance. Disturbance‑free movement in accordance with permit conditions is still allowed in sensitive areas.

The local residents’ snow-covered season permit for Enontekiö, Inari, or Utsjoki allows, in accordance with the permit conditions, necessary travel and the use of natural resources on state-owned land, excluding national parks and nature reserves. Necessary travel includes, for example, commuting between home and workplace, going to the store, or accessing a property. The permit is also intended for access to recreational and ice-fishing destinations and for transporting equipment.

Metsähallitus recommends using established tracks as a priority and urges permit holders to avoid creating new tracks. The areas marked on the maps are particularly vulnerable to disturbance.

Holders of track permits may continue to drive on Metsähallitus’ designated snowmobile tracks even when they pass through sensitive areas. Metsähallitus asks track permit holders to pay particular attention to staying on the mapped tracks, as required by the permit conditions.