Loode-Eesti Metsaühistu: Joined Forces and Broader Experience
On 14 May 2025, a new chapter began for Läänemaa and Põhja-Eesti Metsaühistu as the two forest associations merged to form Loode-Eesti Metsaühistu. This is a significant step for both us and our members, as the merger allows us to continue offering high-quality services to forest owners.
Why Did We Merge?
As a small forest association, it can be difficult to maintain high service standards and retain experienced specialists. That’s why we began merger discussions in the second half of 2024—to become stronger together and offer better solutions in forest management and advisory services.
The merger was approved by the general meetings of both associations: Läänemaa on 8 January and Põhja-Eesti on 23 January. Now that the process is officially completed, we are operating under the name Loode-Eesti Metsaühistu.
The new association brings together 21 years of experience from Põhja-Eesti Metsaühistu and 15 years from Läänemaa Metsaühistu—a combined wealth of knowledge and best practices.
A Unique and Leading Forest Association
With the merger, Loode-Eesti Metsaühistu has become one of Estonia’s largest forest associations by member count, currently bringing together 1 486 members and 35 259 hectares of forest land. Our service area covers Harjumaa, Raplamaa, Järvamaa, Läänemaa, Hiiumaa, and Saaremaa, offering forest owners a full range of services from consultation and forest management to applying for forest subsidies.
What sets Loode-Eesti Metsaühistu apart is our diverse membership. Many of our members are forest owners of Swedish descent, descendants of coastal Swedes who historically settled in Läänemaa. We also have a large number of members living in Tallinn who own forest properties in Northwestern Estonia. As a result, our working languages are Estonian and English.
A New Team with Familiar Faces
Loode-Eesti Metsaühistu is led by Rainer Laigu, who joined as managing director in November. Rainer brings long-standing forestry experience from both RMK and the Environmental Agency.
Our office manager is Kärt Ollema, who joined the Läänemaa Metsaühistu team earlier this year. She has a background in nature tourism and a passion for photography.
Allar Luik joined us on 17 March as a forest management specialist. He previously worked for Läänemaa Metsaühistu for over six years and, most recently, spent five years in a government role shaping forestry legislation.
Veljo Kütt, a long-time forestry consultant at Põhja-Eesti Metsaühistu, continues to offer guidance to forest owners alongside Henrik Leibur, who has worked with the association for several years.
After leading Põhja-Eesti Metsaühistu for many years, Kalle Põld is stepping back from daily operations to enjoy a well-deserved retirement. We hope to convince Kalle to stand as a candidate for the new board at the upcoming general meeting in June.
You can find contact details for all our staff on our website.
Where to Find Us
Our offices in Haapsalu and Tallinn will remain in their current locations for now:
- Tallinna mnt 78, Uuemõisa, Haapsalu
- Pärnu mnt 142, Tallinn
Please book an appointment in advance to ensure we’re available to meet.
First General Meeting in Early June
In early June, we’ll hold the first general meeting of Loode-Eesti Metsaühistu, where we will elect a new board, commissioners, and audit committee.
We encourage all members to actively participate! We welcome candidates who are eager to contribute to the development of the association and the wellbeing of our forests. Put yourself forward—or nominate a trusted friend or neighbour!
This merger marks a big step into the future, enabling us to offer stronger support and more professional services to our members.
Thank you to all members who have been part of this journey with us.
See you in the forest!