metsälaitumia
Metsälaitumia, a Finnish term often translated as "forest pastures" or "wooded pastures," refers to areas of mixed woodland and open grassland that have historically been used for grazing livestock. These landscapes are characterized by a mosaic of trees, shrubs, and open grassy areas, providing a diverse foraging environment for animals.
Historically, metsälaitumia were crucial for traditional agricultural practices in Finland and other Fennoscandian regions. Farmers would
The management of metsälaitumia typically involved a combination of grazing and limited human intervention, such as
In modern times, the extent and management of metsälaitumia have changed significantly due to agricultural intensification,