Cherry Tree Park Celebrates Ovako Imatra’s 110th Anniversary

Ovako Imatra Oy Ab and the City of Imatra are joining forces to establish a cherry tree park in Imatra. The project is part of Ovako Imatra’s 110th anniversary celebrations, and the company is donating 11 ornamental cherry trees—one for each decade of its history. The trees will be planted in Kanavapuisto Park, located on the banks of the Vuoksi River opposite Fortum’s hydropower plant.

The idea for the cherry tree park originates from Ovako’s owners and their cultural heritage. Ovako is a subsidiary of the Japanese company Sanyo Special Steel and part of Nippon Steel Corporation, one of the world’s largest steel producers. In Japan, the cherry blossom, sakura, is a cherished symbol representing renewal, beauty, and the cycle of seasons. These same themes are also present in Finnish nature culture.

At the same time, the park responds to a long-standing wish of many Imatra residents—cherry trees have been repeatedly suggested as a way to liven up the cityscape.

“We wanted to celebrate our long history while giving something lasting and beautiful for the enjoyment of the local community. We believe a cherry tree park is the perfect gesture for this,” says Satu Tähkä, Communications Manager at Ovako Imatra.

The City of Imatra also welcomes the initiative.

“It’s wonderful to have such a beautiful and symbolically meaningful addition to our city’s greenery. Projects like this enrich our environment and bring joy for years to come,” says Erika Luhtanen, City Gardener for the City of Imatra.

The park will be planted during the spring.

For more information, please contact

Ovako
Communication Manager Satu Tähkä, p. +358 40 555 6171, satu.tahka@ovako.com

The City of Imatra
City Gardener Erika Luhtanen, erika.luhtanen@imatra.fi