RA Environment Ministry is planning to develop ecotourism in Khosrov Forest State Reserve. According to the press secretary of Environment Minister Edgar Arakelyan, a management plan has already been approved.
"The entrance of the reserve tourists will take place through appropriate ecotourism routes. There are 5 such ecotourism routes. There are restrictions, in particular, no more than ten people can cross each route at the same time. In addition, tourists must have a specialized guide provided by Khosrov Reserve. It will not be possible to cross those routes without a guide. "Besides, there are clearly defined hours, you must return from the routes at 19:00," he said.
According to Edgar Arakelyan, supervision will be carried out at two levels. One will be carried out by the rangers, the other by Nature Protection and Mining Inspection Body.
In reply to the question whether the impact of the tourism program on the reserve's fauna was studied, for example, the migration routes of the Caucasian leopard were taken into account, Edgar Arakelyan said, "All this was discussed with the environmental organizations, there was a consultation." The Caucasus Wildlife Fund (CNF) also provided consultations, only afterwards the decisions were reached. It seems to me that the possible crossing points of leopards in those eco-routes have been taken into consideration. Naturally, we cannot be 100% sure."
The public is concerned that the tourism development program in Khosrov Reserve may have unforeseen pressure on the reserve. Among the possible risks of tourism development in Khosrov reserve are as follows:
• Exceeding the number of tourists;
• Violations of the protection regime of the reserve zone by tourists;
• Risk of unintended actions by tourists that could lead to disaster, such as a fire;
• Damage to endangered species;
• Pollution of the area and others.
In case of tourism development in Khosrov reserve, RA Environment Ministry should exercise strict control, including with the participation of the interested public.
February 19, 2021 at 15:18