Environmental organizations raise alarm over endangered freshwater mussel in Pirkanmaa, Finland

Environmental organizations are expressing concern over the endangered freshwater mussel, known as the “raakku,” in the Pirkanmaa region of Finland. The issue gained attention after reports revealed that thousands of these critically endangered mussels perished in Suomussalmi when forestry machinery operated by Stora Enso drove over them.

In Southern Finland, Pirkanmaa contains rare habitats suitable for the raakku. The Pinsiön-Matalusjoki river, flowing through Nokia and Hämeenkyrö, is one such habitat. Environmental groups have called for increased water levels in this river to help support the raakku population. Currently, the water levels depend on groundwater supply, much of which is used for human consumption.

According to these organizations, the low water levels in Pinsiön-Matalusjoki have already led to the death of raakku larvae during harsh winters, while summers bring water temperatures that are too high for successful reproduction. Additionally, the brown trout, which serves as an intermediate host for the mussels, is struggling to thrive in these conditions.

In January, local organizations approached the Pirkanmaa Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment (ELY Center) to request modifications to the permits governing water extraction from the Pinsiö intake. However, these permit conditions have not changed, and the situation remains dire, according to the chair of the Pirkanmaa Nature Conservation League, Antti Virnes.

The ELY Center stated it lacks the authority to alter the permits and that changes would need to be requested from regional administrative authorities. Water extraction for drinking purposes has been ongoing for nearly 50 years, with the Pinsiö facility supplying an average of 4,000 cubic meters daily, with a maximum allowable amount of 8,000 cubic meters. Efforts are underway to improve the situation through restoration projects in the region, particularly in the Ruonanjo and Pinsiön-Matalusjoki rivers.