New entity established in Latvia to tackle the Spanish snail infestation
In Latvia, a new organization called "Spanijaskailgliemezis" has been established to combat the increasing problem of the large Spanish slug[1]. This invasive species has been causing significant damage to gardens and crops for about 16 years[2].
Founded by Aina Jēkabsone, Haralds Jēkabsons, and Ilze Mājeniece, the association aims to coordinate efforts to manage and reduce the impact of the Spanish slug on Latvian ecosystems and agriculture[1]. Their website can be found at www.spanijaskailgliemezis.lv, and they also have a Facebook group at @Spanijaskailgliemezis.
This year's warm winter and wet summer have contributed to a massive spread of Spanish slugs[1]. The association's strategies include seeking funding and participating in project competitions to implement its plans[1].
The association's goals extend beyond its property to involve municipal and national efforts in limiting the spread of Spanish slugs. They believe that the problem of Spanish slugs can be overcome through cooperation and systematic work[1].
The association's main activities include public education, volunteer network creation, lobbying, and organizational and financial support for Spanish slug control. They will engage in lobbying activities to achieve necessary legal changes for Spanish slug control[1].
The association aims to attract funding from various environmental and public initiative support funds[1]. They also plan to organize educational events and workshops with donated funds[1]. However, there have been doubts expressed that the Spanish slug can be eradicated now that it has become established[1].
Despite these challenges, the association has gained significant support, with over 2,500 members from all over Latvia[1]. They are open to cooperation with people and organizations aiming to limit the spread of Spanish slugs at the municipal or national level[1].
References: [1] Spanijaskailgliemezis. (n.d.). Retrieved from www.spanijaskailgliemezis.lv [2] Latvian Agriculture Ministry. (2019, March 12). Retrieved from https://www.zm.gov.lv/lv/aktualitates/zinatniskie-artikli/2019-03-12-gadzivas-sluks-latvijai-veido-vairak-problemu
- The association, Spanijaskailgliemezis, established in Latvia, has expanded its focus from addressing the Spanish slug issue in gardens and crops to involving broader societal and science-based approaches, integrating environmental-science, climate-change, and lifestyle aspects in their fight against this invasive species.
- In an attempt to curb the escalating problem of the Spanish slug, the association has planned to reach out to home-and-garden enthusiasts, expanding their strategies beyond agriculture to incorporate home-based prevention methods, aiming to create a comprehensive approach to manage this pest.
- The association's efforts to combat the Spanish slug extend beyond their own initiative, as they strive to engage with local and national authorities, encouraging policy changes for the betterment of Latvian society and environmental health, remaining committed to a collaborative and systematic approach in eradicating the impacts of the Spanish slug.
