Posted on January, 29 2008

The project aim is to conserve the unique biodiversity of the Javakheti-Shirak plateau in Armenia on the border to Georgia and Turkey at the same time as enhancing sustainable rural development in the northern Shirak region through establishment of the Lake Arpi National Park and implementation of a support zone programme, targeting around 15 villages. The project will explore new development opportunities in the region linked to summer and winter tourism, alternative energy production and climate change, but it will also explore how more traditional land use activities can fit into a more dynamic future perspective. The overall budget of the project is 2 mln. 200 ths. euros. The project will also promote the area internationally. To ensure a connection to the local and regional agenda, a Project Implementation Unit (PIU) has been established in the town of Gyumri – capital of the Shirak Region.

The project proposal was developed by WWF-Germany, WWF-Armenia and WWF Caucasus Programme Office. In September 2007, KfW and the Ministry of Nature Protection granted WWF the task of implementing the project in close collaboration with the Ministry. A Regional Advisory Council, with representatives from four Ministries, the Shirak Region, more than 15 communities, and other national and international stakeholders, serves as a reference body for the planning and implementation of the new national park and the support zone developments.

The Javakheti-Shirak plateau in Armenia is part of a large high mountain plateau of volcanic origin with mountain steppes, sub-alpine grasslands as well as lakes and wetlands. Due to its uniqueness in the Caucasus, the plateau was selected as priority conservation area “Javakheti-Shirak” in an “Ecoregional Conservation Plan for the Caucasus” launched at a Ministerial Conference in March 2006 with the governments of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia and Germany.

The Javakheti-Shirak ecosystem is recognized as a globally important area for birds, reptiles and plants, of which several are listed as endangered in the IUCN Red Data Book. Preserving this unique ecosystem calls for a coordinated approach to nature conservation and management across national boundaries, accompanied by sustainable development measures for local people.

WWF has also been asked to implement a similar project on the Georgian side of the Javakheti-Shirak region, which creates interesting opportunities for synergy, learning and co-operation across the border. A Transboundary Cooperation Board, with representatives from both countries, will be asked to facilitate the collaboration, supported by a Transboundary Joint Secretariat for Southern Caucasus with offices in all three countries, including Armenia.

 

For further information:
Arthur Khoyetsyan, Partnership Development Manager
WWF-Armenia
E-mail: akhoyetsyan@wwfcaucasus.am