While it may not be immediately apparent, the artillery ranges and tank traps of Ādaži play host to a lot more than unexploded ordinance, providing a habitat to a surprising array of flora and fauna.
Nor is it just a matter of leaving things be: Ādaži is subject to regular mowing and controlled burning, all of which have helped create a diversity of habitats including unique heathland.
Vote for Adazi military training area for Natura2000Award:http://t.co/75QKLN4G7j One of inhabitants-European roller pic.twitter.com/729XsPh1UM
— AizsardzībasMin. (@AizsardzibasMin) April 16, 2015
The Ādaži conservation area is one of 23 finalists in the Natura 2000 awards which cover all EU member states.
Finalists will be judged by a jury in each of five categories - environmental protection, socio-economic benefits, communication, coordination of interests and cross-border cooperation.
However, the is also an online public vote for the European Citizen Prize, and that's where the army is hoping people will rally to the flag.
You can register your support and find out more about the Natura 2000 program HERE.
The vote closes on May 6 with winners announced on May 21.
