Tõrkeväljades

Tõrkeväljades is an Estonian term that translates to "tar fields" or "pitch fields." It refers to areas where tar, a viscous black liquid, has accumulated or been processed. Historically, tar production was a significant industry in Estonia and other parts of Northern Europe. Tar was extracted from wood, primarily pine, through a process of destructive distillation in kilns or pits. The resulting tar was a valuable commodity, used for waterproofing ships, preserving wood, and as a fuel.

These tõrkeväljades were often located in forested areas, near sources of wood. The process of tar making was labor-intensive and could leave behind significant residues. The soil in these areas might be stained with tar and have a distinct odor. Over time, as the use of tar declined with the advent of synthetic materials, many of these production sites ceased to operate.

Some tõrkeväljades may still exist today, either as abandoned industrial remnants or as areas where historical tar-making activities are commemorated. These sites can offer insights into Estonia's past industrial heritage and traditional resource management practices. Environmental studies might also be conducted in such areas to assess any lingering contamination from historical tar production. The term itself evokes a sense of historical industry and the natural resources that fueled it.