The fifth annual festival "Olonia - the Goose Capital" was held in old Karelian Town Olonets (Russia).  

The festival was intiated within the framework of  WWF Sweden and Baltic Fund for Nature joint project aimed at sustainable rural development in Southern Karelia. From the very beginning the festival was supported by the Administration of Olonets district and local NGO "Ancient City".

Vast agricultural areas of Olonets plain represent one of the largest in northern Europe stop-overs of migrating geese. In spring since mid April till mid May every day one can observe up to 50-70 thousand geese and a number of other birds.

At the festival presentation talks were given by representatives of WWF Sweden, Baltic Fund for Nature, Karelian Research Center and local administration.  

Ornithological excursions to the goose fields were organised for all corners. Domestic geese participated in Goose Fashion Defile and in Goose Races. Eight schoolchildren teams presented their  drawings at the exhibition "Welcome Geese!".

The winners of competition among owners of private farms were awarded with  calves and packags of hay.  The competition was organised within the framework of WWF Sweden - Baltic Fund for Nature project "Green meat production on Olonets grasslands", started during this spring.

Traditionally agricultural fair was organised in Olonets during the festival. The boat races on Olonka river raised great interest among festival participants.  But the most  pleasant surprise for the participants of the festival was a big flock of geese which has flown in a blue sky over the crowd of people...
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