The map of the sanctuary is ready to be approved

The ADA funded component of “ENPI East Countries FLEG II Program – Complementary Measures for Georgia and Armenia” aims to support Georgia and Armenia in strengthening forest governance through improving implementation of relevant international processes, and enhancing their forest policy, legislation and institutional arrangements, and developing, testing and evaluating sustainable forest management models at the local level, on a pilot basis for future replication.

It complements the on-going ENPI East Countries FLEG II Program, funded by the European Commission in seven countries, including Armenia and Georgia.

In the framework of the ADA supported component a new Ijevan sanctuary will be established in Tavush Region of Armenia on the basis of three existing forest sanctuaries. At present, the mapping and optimization of the boundaries of three forest PAs has been finalized (see map). The other planned activities include development of management plan and preparation of draft legal documents for establishment of the sanctuary and approval of the map and charter, human and technical capacity building. The new sanctuary will incorporate existing valuable areas along with some modified areas, which can be subject to restoration.

“The sanctuary will also ensure connectivity with Dilijan National Park in Armenia as it is continuation of similar forest ecosystems”. Mrs. Siranush Galstyan, FLEG II Program Country Coordinator for WWF-Armenia, sais:”The mapping and clarification of boundaries of forest sanctuaries in Armenia is very important. It serves as a basis for management planning and improvement of management. Ultimately it will bring to protection of threatened species as well as contribute to socio-economic development of adjacent communities through improved ecosystem services in the area.   “