The Swedish Arborist Federation SAF participated in an ERASMUS+ small-scale partnership project Nr. 2023-2-LV01-KA210-VET-000171501 in vocational education and training VETREE LV, implementation period: 01.02.2024–29.01.2026

The main objective of the project was to increase awareness and knowledge of the conservation and management of veteran trees in Latvia, targeting green industry specialists and organisations responsible for their management and protection.

The project focused on adapting the VETree educational materials and, under the guidance of experienced Swedish VETree and VETCert experts, implementing two VETree Train-the-Trainer courses in Latvia. The courses focused on training participants in the care and management of veteran trees and equipping them with the skills needed to train others at a foundation level.

The two Train-the-Trainer courses organised in 2024 were attended by 34 experienced arborists, biologists and educational staff.

In 2025, 34 one-day VETree training courses were organised across Latvia, reaching a total of 556 (instead of 320 planned!) participants. These included professionals from tree care and maintenance-related industries, specialists, representatives of municipalities and governmental organisations, as well as other interested individuals. In addition, an educational leaflet on Veteran Tree Management for a wider target audience in Latvia was produced as a project output.

The Erasmus+ project contributed to the practical transfer of knowledge and experience in ancient and veteran tree care and management from more experienced EU countries to Latvia, where this field had been largely undeveloped prior to the project.

By combining international expertise with local implementation and wide dissemination, the project ensured both immediate impact on professional practice and long-term sustainability through continued training, peer learning and knowledge sharing beyond the project duration.

At the same time, the Swedish Arborist Federation SAF and Stiftelsen Pro Natura gained valuable experience and increased their competence in  knowledge transfer and training management in the Baltic region, including increased familiarity with local legislation and practices related to veteran tree management. Particular attention was devoted to VETCERT promotion

As a result, new collaboration projects and training initiatives on veteran tree management are being planned in other Baltic countries, including Estonia and Lithuania.

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Project funded by the European Union. 

Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the granting authority. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.