The proposed logging restrictions were on Tuesday presented in the parliament and they include restrictions on logging in forest reserves and recreational forests as well as a ban on clear cut belt in protective forests.
“Forests have two functions, including the farming and the recreational functions. The forest policy is the balance of the two functions. The public concern represented the recreational side. The changes are proposed to balance the environmental aspect,” the minister told the Žinių Radijas news radio on Wednesday.
The changes will apply to both state and private forests, he added.
The forest logging issue was raised in late August after reports of logging in Labanoras regional park sparked public resentment.