Efforts underway to revitalize declining luodonsiika population in Pietarsaari region

Efforts are underway to strengthen the declining population of the local whitefish in the Pietarsaari region. This species, known as the luodonsiika, has a long-standing history in the area. UPM, a forestry company, in collaboration with the fishing association of Ostrobothnia, has initiated a new project aimed at revitalizing this fish population in the marine areas of Pietarsaari.

The operation will involve test fishing to gather eggs, which will then be raised into fry. The project is set to commence in October-November at three key locations in Pietarsaari. The harvested roe will be sent to a breeding facility in Keminmaa. “The first fry will be released into the sea next spring. At the same time, we will investigate if local breeding can be done in natural conditions,” stated Tomi Heikkinen, UPM’s environmental manager.

The luodonsiika has adapted well to its local aquatic environment, showing greater resilience than other whitefish species against diseases and habitat changes. This initiative is part of UPM’s commitment to sustainable fishing practices, a responsibility it has upheld for several decades. “The annual cost of the project is approximately €90,000, which represents a significant expense,” Heikkinen added.

Despite previous stocking efforts, studies indicate that the luodonsiika population has continued to deteriorate, with most whitefish catches in the region consisting of migratory fish. Consequently, more sustainable solutions are necessary for the population’s preservation. Heikkinen anticipates that the new initiative will last at least five years. The project will utilize DNA testing in selecting suitable breeding fish and will assess potential spawning grounds for improvement. In addition, local fishing stakeholders, the West Finland Fisheries Center, and the regional Ely Center are also involved in the initiative.