• 90th Anniversary for~Russia'sFirst Nature Reserve , / • Focus on Lake Baikal's Barguzinsky ~apovednik • Leaders reflect on status of Zapovedniks today • .Update on Imperiled Zapovedniks Voice from the Wild Students Explore Zapovedniks (A Letter from the Editors) 1 in the Russian North 24 Voronezhsky Zapovednik: Through the Lens ~ PROTECTED AREAS of History 26 Celebrating the Ninetieth Anniversary . of Russia's Zapovednik System. 2 It!] NEWS OF THE DAY A Conversation with the Experts: New National Park Created in Karelia 28 Taking the Pulse of the Zapovednik System 3 Russian a winner in Wildlife Photographer Protected Areas History: A Chronology 8 of the Year Competition 28 Russian Zapovedniks Are 90 Years Old. Altai Foundation Receives International Will they Make it to 1OO? 11 , Environmental Prize 29 Then and Now: Updates from Russia's New Forest Legislation for Russia 29 Imperiled Zapovedniks 12 US Fish and Wildlife Service Continues SPECIAL SECTION: RUSSIA'S FIRST ZAPOVEDNIK Support for Russia's Protected Areas 30 On the Shores of Lake Baikal: Russia's First World Wildlife Fund Opens Office Zapovednik · i 6 on the Kamchatka Peninsula 30 Research and Conservation of Russia's Sable Population 18 ~ BULLETIN nOARD Despite Government Changes, Barguzinsky Track Movements of Steller Sea Eagle 31 Zapovednik's Work Continues 20 Barguzinsky Zapovednik: Anniversary Album A New Zoning Scheme for Lake Baikal's Published 31 Watershed 22 Long-Awaited US-Russia Polar Bear Treaty Report from the Altai Conservancy: Altaisky Legislation , 31 Zapovednik Retains Its Status 23

Russian Conservation News has been produced with support from many wonderful conservation-minded people! We would like to recognize the extraordinary support from: Harriett Crosby S. Todd Weinberg Chas Dewey Andrea Williams The mission of the Center for Russian Nature Winslow Duke Juliana Williams Conservation (CRNC) is to promote the conser­ Bernie McHugh vation of nature in Russia and throughout the Special thanks for their generous 2006 year-end donations . former Soviet Union, and to assist conservation, and support for this issue to: Susan Helms Daley, Wallace and groups in that region through information Jerryne Cole, Harriet Crosby, Geoffrey Harper, John cxdJ;mge, coordination of professional and edu­ Hemenway, David Heisler, George Johnson, Eliza K Klose, .,.. ation exchanges, and provision of technical 'Richard Lanier, Ivan Mina, Lois Morrison, Brooke Stevens, . • '2W"C' to protected areas. CRNC is a project Vance Martin, Peter Matthiessen, Mary Ann Mekosh, William :~ _dieTides center. Wasch, Don Weeden, Fredrick Welty, The Wild Salmon Center •1

'...... J1t*_Ji's·1IIIIIfriends in Russia, indud­ © Copyright 2007 CRNC/fides Center. *"lk:­ ' f p-~ rdJase mission is .aPARTNERSHIP .~. .,~ • 7 5 W*l,.1Jt!JtDfialJI.1II'Idjinancial help to FOR ZAPOVEDNIKS Voice from the Wild (A Letter from the Editors)

This issue goes to press at a bittersweet moment in the history of Russia's zapovedniks and, in fact, in the history of Russia. In December of 2006, Barguzinsky Zapovednik, the country's first nature reserve, marked its ninetieth anniversary. However, today's zapovednik leaders are apprehen- EDITORIAL BOARD sive about the current status of the territories entrusted to their care. They Executive Editor: Margaret Williams point to the erosion of administrative bodies responsible for supporting Managing Editor: Natalya Troitskaya the zapovedniks and parks, the constant threats and pressures to the Guest Editors: Jane Costlow, Chas wildlife and lands they should be protecting, and the lack of resources to Dewey, Karin Elliot, Melissa Mooza, Andrea Williams counter these attacks. Although the country's economic growth has sky- Maps: Maksim Dubinin rocketed in the last five years, few zapovedniks are reaping the benefits of Design and Layout: Design Group A4 the new Russia. Translation: Jane Costlow, Karin Elliot, Melissa Mooza, Mary Rees, Margaret Despite today's tough times, the rich history of the zapovednik system is Williams worth reviewing. In this issue we bring you excerpts of interviews with Subscriptions Manager: some of Russia's leading conservationists – each of whom has played an Sarah Millspaugh important role in defending these protected areas. Each one shares his or Contributing Authors: Phyllis Arata- her perspective on the zapovedniks. A chronology of events shows how Meyers, Evgeny Chernikin, Tatiana Golubeva, Tatiana Smolyakova, Natalia the zapovednik system unfolded against the backdrop of Russia's often Troitskaya, Margaret Williams, Lisa tumultuous political history. Woodson Contributing Artists and Taking a closer look at the zapovednik system's development over the last Photographers: Tatyana Golubeva, century, we provide a special focus on Barguzinsky Zapovednik, nestled Vadim Kantor, Aleksandr Kravtsov, Horst Machguth, Egor Mjacischev, Evgeniy between the Barguzin Mountains and the mythical Lake Baikal. As Russia's Potapov, Denis Rubanenko, Elena first zapovednik, its establishment was signed into law by the last emperor Rubtsova, Igor Shpilenok, Darya of Russia, Tsar Nicholas II -- an historic step that laid the foundation for Shkurckaja, Vasiliy Sutula, Evgeniya Russia's contributions to global conservation. Although initially aimed at Tantsireva, Valeriy Teterin, Vyacheslav Trigubovich, Sergeiy Usik, Lisa Woodson restoring the country's depleted populations of sable, a commercially val- Acknowledgments: Maps of Russia's ued species, Barguzinsky would become the heart of a national ecological protected areas that are featured in this monitoring and research program and its staff would also set the standard issue were prepared using the Protected for an ethic of dedication to the true mission of nature conservation. Areas GIS database of the Biodiversity Conservation Center/International Socio- Ecological Union. For more information, We also take a retrospective look at some imperiled zapovedniks. Through please consult http://oopt.info/gis/data- the decades RCN has reported on various threats to wildlife and wild lands base-eng.html protected by the designation of a zapovednik. We re-visit a few of those special territories to see how long-fought battles for conservation are far- ON THE COVER ing against the forces of resource development.

Although some of this news is discouraging, there are reasons to celebrate. The accomplishments of young talent within the zapovednik system are evident in the recognition of Altaisky Zapovednik Director Vyacheslav Trigubovich with an international conservation award, and of Igor Shpile- nok, founder of Bryansky Les Zapovednik (and current ranger at Kronotsky Zapovednik), with first place in the Urban and Backyard Wildlife category of the international photography competition sponsored annually by the Natural History Museum in London and BBC Wildlife Magazine.

It is also a time to celebrate the history of Russian Conservation News. The journal is now in its twelfth year of reporting on Russia's protected areas, endangered species, unique ecosystems, and NGOs. However, RCN is also at a crossroads. Constraints on our resources at the Center for Russian Nature Conservation have required that we begin to search for a new home to ensure more sustainable financial, administrative, and editing sup- port. We hope this search will be successful and will allow the journal to flourish, expand, and continue to serve as a voice for conservationists throughout Eurasia whose work may otherwise go unnoticed. We thank you for your long years of support, your patience during this transitional period, and most importantly – your understanding of northern Eurasia's ?????????? critical role in conserving the world's biodiversity.

Fall 2006 No. 42 Protected Areas Protected Areas

Celebrating the Ninetieth Anniversary of Russia's Zapovednik System

his issue of Russian Conservation News is Tdevoted to one of Russia's great contributions to the world: the system of strictly protected nature reserves, otherwise known as zapovedniks. In the following pages we highlight key leaders and moments in the history of the zapovednik system. We celebrate the 90th anniversary of the country's first zapovednik, Barguzinsky, with a special section describing its history, develop- ment, and current status. Although we cannot present an entirely rosy picture, readers will appreciate the many accomplishments of the zapovedniks in species restoration, habitat protection, science, and education.

For details on the size and date of establishment of individual reserves, please see the numbered table on pp. 32-33. Map by M.Dubinin.

2 Russian Conservation News Protected Areas A Conversation with the Experts: Taking the Pulse of the Zapovednik System

From the RCN editors' desk: The 90th anniversary of the zapovednik system sets one thinking about history, achieve- ments, problems and the system's current condition. RCN asked well-known zapovednik activists in Russia to share their thoughts on these issues. The journal's format doesn't allow us to include the full responses. Here are excerpts that were of particular interest to us and we hope to you.

The following people responded to the questionnaire:

Andrei Yablokov (AY) – chairman of the Green Russia Vitaly Tiagunin (VT) – Director of Bolonsky Party (“Green Council of Russia”) Zapovednik Natalya Danilina (ND) – Director of the Zapovedniki Victor Yashnov (VY) – Director of Sokhondinsky Ecocenter Zapovednik Evgeny Shvarts (ESh) – Director of Conservation Policy, Elena Korshunova (EK) – Director of Kerzhensky WWF-Russia Zapovednik Gennady Yankus (GYa) – Director of Barguzinsky Vyacheslav Trigubovich (VTr) – Director of Altai Zapovednik Zapovednik

RCN: What is near and dear to cal giants. It's the constant you about the zapovednik system? discoveries: new, interesting places, people who are able AY: Zapovedniks are one of the to solve problems that seem foundations of my worldview as a insoluble. It's impossible to biologist. My personal work experi- say what or who is nearest ence in the zapovednik system isn't and dearest in connection all that great, but it was exceptionally with the anniversary. To do important for my formation as a biol- that I'd have to write a book, ogist. I worked in the Astrakhan and not respond to a ques- Zapovednik tagging pelicans, I've got tionnaire! a permanent scar on my hand from a pelican's beak. When I was working ESh: Zapovednik work is in the Lapland Zapovednik I made something unconscious, the the acquaintance of an extraordinary most important thing that man – Oleg Semyonov Tian-Shanskii. lies within me, where my During my student years I worked in identity was formed in the Kandalakshski Zapovednik. I've childhood, what I've been been in a few dozen others as well - busy at since I was 14. in Russia, in Kazakhstan, Turkmenia, Kirghizia, in the Caucasus and GYa: By training I'm a Ukraine. wildlife biologist. That's no Aleksey Yablokov accident, since by the time I ND: For me zapovedniks represent was in fifth grade I was almost 30 years of my life. It's the already hunting and fishing. In those Zapovednik for 35 years. It is an obli- joy of participating in collective difficult years children helped their gation and duty, not heroism. action with those devoted to this parents put food on the table. So I work, who know and love nature, learned to live in the natural world, VT: Zapovednik work is my life's call- bright, talented people who carry the first of all out of necessity, and then ing – to preserve a corner of some- Russian zapovednik system on their through habit and conviction. I've thing near and dear, and as much as shoulders – like some kind of mythi- been Director of the Barguzinsky possible to show it to people, so that

Fall 2006 No. 42 3 Protected Areas

al times a day, like they're protected natural territories. Over your neighbors, then you many years a system of values and just don't think all that priorities has evolved in both theory much about the impor- and practice in zapovednik work. tance of your work, it just The principles of preserving seems necessary. But when untouched nature and the normal you make it out into civi- flow of natural processes comes into lization and see with your play here: severe restrictions on visita- eyes what's left of harmo- tion; complete conservation of signifi- nious natural processes and cant territorial areas; and the impor- how we're “rationally” tant role of scientific research and exploiting and preserving monitoring. natural resources, you begin to realize that such ND: One particularly important encounters with bears are achievement in Russian zapovednik almost all gone. That's work is the notion of non-interfer- when I begin to feel proud ence in natural processes on the of my profession. We're extensive territories of the zapoved- not wasting our time, and God willing we'll get through this difficult period without major losses, then maybe humans will truly live in harmony with nature. Next year it will be 30 years that I've worked in Evgeny Shvarts. zapovedniki, and of that I've spent 25 in Sokhondinsky. they can feel and understand the beauty of nature in its original form. EK: Zapovedniks are the one exam- Unfortunately, to attain these goals in ple I know of where people have Russia means constant struggle; it truly, not just in principle, renounced shouldn't be that way for reasonable their rights to natural resources in people. For some reason that's how it favor of the wilderness. is: Strictly Protected Nature Areas in Russia (not only the zapovedniki) VTr: Work in the zapovednik is first must constantly protect themselves and foremost a way to serve one's from someone: from higher-level native land. That's how it's always Vitaly Tiagunin. bureaucrats who undertake some been. Those who can handle the reform or other, government deci- work are resilient, committed, and sions that haven't been thought feel called to lives of service. Belief in through and which destroy the very the triumph of the good, hope for niks. Having said that, I don't exclude system of conservation, local officials something better, love for one's the possibility - and sometimes the who have their eyes on resources in native land – those are the main necessity - for intelligent develop- these strictly protected areas, local foundations of zapovednik work for ment of ecotourism, not only in the populations who are poaching, and me, and I'm certain it's the same for national parks, but in a number of our own workers who don't want to the majority of zapovednik workers. zapovedniks (of course not in all of fulfill their own obligations conscien- And also – there's something quite them). For historic reasons many of tiously. profound and sacred in the word the zapovedniks were created in “zapovednik,” something quite dear places that are traditionally attractive VY: No doubt this will sound banal, to our hearts/souls. for tourists, and their founders but zapovedniks and the work con- allowed for the development of nected with them are my life. When RCN: How do you see the role tourism in these spots. you live in a remote, relatively and significance of the Russian untouched corner of the wilderness, zapovednik system? This is a very complicated question; it where natural processes are running needs to be resolved; and it needs leg- their course, where you run into AY: Its worldwide significance is as islative consideration and the cre- bears, wild boar and musk deer sever- an outstanding example of strictly ation of a holistic governmental pro-

4 Russian Conservation News Protected Areas gram that would be reflected in where I've come in contact zapovednik development plans, etc. with Strict Conservation Without this, the zapovednik system Area organizations, you see will be unable to continue to develop. common reactions. The The possibilities for Russian Strictly system's uniqueness has Protected Nature Areas are no less been recognized world than for Canadian or American parks. wide, but unfortunately, so They can and I hope that in the not far it hasn't become a too distant future they will plan an source of national pride increasing role in the development of for Russians. The zapoved- tourism, ecological education, and nik system of values and sustainable regional development. priorities as it has evolved Russian society is beginning to under- in Russia must be pre- stand the value of such areas for served, it's a national maintaining human health. It's no achievement for Russia. accident that the word “zapovednik” is starting to be used in advertising VTr: I can't emphasize too products, housing, etc. much the value of Russia's zapovednik system for the ESh: The primary distinction is that preservation of living these strictly protected areas, whose wilderness in Russia. main function is monitoring, are a Without a doubt it's one of base of comparison for what's hap- the best (I'm personally pening in the country, in nature, and convinced that it's the on the planet. It's true that so far rel- best) of all forms of terri- atively few people are interested in torial nature protection in Gennady Yankus. this, but the country is developing, the world. But I see one sooner or later zapovedniks and additional crucial aspect of information about their status will be its significance - it's an in demand. example of the supremacy of man's of this body leaves much to be wisdom over his drive to consume, it's desired. Numerous promises from the VT: The zapovednik system in Russia a place where humans acknowledge country's leadership to clean these has been a guide post for other coun- their secondary stature in the face of things up have not be acted on. Thus tries in the realm of God's creation. I wish very much that all our respondents believe that the conservation. this example was recognized far zapovednik system is marking its Many places beyond the boundaries of Russia. anniversary in a crisis situation.

RCN: What are Aleksey Yablokov compares the the most acute current management system with a problems facing drunkard or bum who breaks into a the zapovednik jewelry store and doesn't understand system right the true worth of the jewels that sur- now? round him.

The majority of Vitalii Tiagunin adds: The current respondents crisis is a crisis of management, which answered this means it's the very existence of the question by noting zapovednik system that's threatened. the crisis in the If we don't begin immediately to alle- regulatory sphere viate the management crisis, it's possi- of federal Strictly ble we'll have a crash of the Strictly Protected Nature Protected Area system itself. Areas. The system is currently man- Natalya Danilina notes: The aged by an interim destruction of the system has begun group. The pro- from within. Any normal level of fessionalism, oper- financing is absent, and miserly salary ational standards, levels force valuable workers to leave Natalya Danilina. and work quality and discourage young people from

Fall 2006 No. 42 5 Protected Areas

tion (i.e., what you society, primarily for those at the would do if you were highest level of power in government. President of Russia…)? As a way of making that educational effort more effective, I'd stimulate AY: There are no objec- development of educational tourism. tive reasons for the Let's not have experienced naturalists decline of the Russian be the only ones seeing wild animals zapovednik system. in the Russian protected areas. There are “evil geniuses” Someone with absolutely no experi- – ideologues who want ence in ecology can look into a trust- to de-ecologize the ing animal's eyes and he'll understand country, and the “get why we need zapovedniks! rich quick” mentality that goes along with RCN: Are trends toward commer- that,of the decisionmak- cializing zapovedniks justified, or ers. Only a change of can – and should – the govern- regime will help serious- ment take on the burden of sup- ly address the current porting zapovedniks as a national problems of the treasure? zapovednik system – it needs political will. We can sum up the Directors' responses with Elena Korshynova's ESh: If I were words: Regardless of Russia's financial President, I'd make it situation, supporting the current sys- clear that improving the tem of zapovednik is not an undue ecological system is fun- financial burden. Just recall how damental to competi- much was simply stolen in this coun- tive economics. I would try during an inauspicious economic restore government period. For the zapovednik system, management of nature nothing could be worse that a system Victor Yashnov. protection I would cre- of self-financing. Revenue from paid ate a federal agency services should go into the federal interesting work in the Strictly charged with managing federal budget. Better still, business should Protected Areas system. The system Strictly Protected Nature Areas. The take care of such services rather than staff is aging, there's no generational government must undertake optimal zapovednik workers. They've got shift. The government, which management. more important things to do than receives significant income from the service the public! sale of natural resources, simply must ND: If I were President, I would issue preserve this natural inheritance. an executive order specifying the cru- Vyacheslav Trigubovich put it con- cial role of strictly protected areas in cisely and vividly: for me personally, Evgeny Shvarts remarked on the Russia's sustainable development. I commercializing the zapovedniks is lack of understanding of the zapoved- would outline a strategy for develop- like buying and selling in the Temple. nik system within the country, the ing the zapovednik system, I'd create absence of any obvious evidence of an Agency in charge of zapovednik RCN: What is the role of interna- the system's importance. affairs, which I'd give full control over tional charitable organizations and management in matters of Protected environmental organizations in Vyacheslav Trigubovich: Hard Nature Areas, and I'd create an inter- this area? times are a permanent feature of agency council charged with thinking zapovednik work in Russia. People about the development and exploita- Almost all of our respondents noted always confront difficulties. But today tion of protected areas' potential in the positive, important role of inter- as never before in the last 90 years, Russia's sustainable development. I'd national charitable organizations and we're faced with a break in the gener- invite effective bureaucrats, thought- environmental organizations in ational sequence, we're starved for ful scientists, and responsible public Russia's zapovednik system. workers. activists. But most importantly, I'd Vyacheslav Trigubovich remarked: facilitate long-term stability – let's “This is one of the effective forms of RCN: What might help solve cur- say five years, for the structure to cooperation between international rent problems and in some way function. I'd start developing envi- agencies and zapovedniks, from fundamentally change the situa- ronmental education for all levels of which both sides benefit – there's

6 Russian Conservation News Protected Areas assistance in resolving concrete con- zapovednik sys- servation issues, there's environmental tem. Together education, and a marvelous mecha- with his team, he nism for the larger society to help the created a mod- zapovedniks. ern, relatively effective legal Vitaly Tiagunin gave this striking basis for example: “Without such support, the zapovednik work. Bolonsky Zapovednik simply would- Despite complex n't exist. The project to create the economic and zapovednik was accomplished with a political circum- grant from WWF in the U.S., offices stances, Russia's were outfitted with a grant from national treasure WWF Russia, and basic facilities (a - her system of radio station, vehicles, boats, motors, Strictly Protected etc.) were purchased almost com- Nature Areas - pletely with a grant from the German has not only Eco Fund (GEF??). Foreign grants been preserved, also sustain scientific programs. A but has grown. Elena Korshunova. grant from the Fund for National Parks (?) supported a program to cre- RCN: What ate artificial nests for rare birds within would you like the zapovednik, and U.S. Fish and to wish the zapovednik system EK: Normal financing. Wildlife supported field work by two on its 90th anniversary? specialists in conservation and GIS VY: To have good contacts with the technology.” . AY: To survive difficult times. public and the government.

Gennady Yankus, Director of the ND: To finally get the support of the VTr: The same thing I wish for Barguzinsky Zapovednik, disagreed. government and understanding from Mother Russia: Faith, Hope and He feels that zapovedniks (like public the public. To be proactive, not just Peace. The rest will come of its prosecutors) shouldn't be allowed to reactive. Stability! To have just a tiny own. earn money from grants. bit of success!

RCN: Can zapovedniks count on GYa: One financial support from Russian hopes for stabi- business? What stands in the lization of the way of that process? political and economic situa- The respondents agreed that the tion in Russia, Russian tax code impedes business since those are support to the zapovedniks. The fundamental absence – or loss – of a tradition of conditions for benevolent giving in Russia is also sustainable natu- apparent. Vyacheslav Trigubovich ral conservation feels that Russian business has to and resource “mature” to a point of charitable sup- politics. port. Nonetheless many of the direc- tors believe that help from Russian VT: To be man- businesses will reach the zapovedniks. aged as a dynam- ic, developing RCN: Name some leading figures system in reality, in zapovednik work? and not just on paper. Felix Shtil'mark was most frequently mentioned in connection with the ESh: A second history of zapovednik work. Almost wind. We've every respondent noted Vsevolod come as far as Stepanitsky's contributions to the cre- the Putin ation and management of the plateau. Vyacheslav Trigubovich.

Fall 2006 No. 42 7 Endangered Ecosystems

Protected Areas History: A Chronology

Chronology created by RCN editor Natalia Troitskaya

ussia's zapovednik system was not built in a day! In fact, after three decades of growth, the system was drastically Rdiminished in the 1950's. To better understand the vicissitudes of zapovednik history and the addition of national parks to the system of federally protected areas, RCN presents the chronology of key zapovednik milestones in the context of Russia's history.

Decade Russian History Zapovednik History

1910-1919 World War I Under Tsar Nikolai II: 1917 Revolution 1912: A Council of Ministers' Resolution declared the urgent Against a backdrop of failures in WWI, hunger and need to create so-called “Zapovednik areas.” It created the tremendous losses of life, the monarchy collapsed and “Law On the Establishment of Limitations on the Hunting of so did the democratic interim government. The power Sable,” which stated that it was necessary to “organize in the country transferred to the Bolsheviks. zapovedniks.” Scientific research expeditions were organ- The scientific community, concerned about wildlife ized and plans for several zapovedniks were drawn up. conservation, welcomed the revolution, hoping that the new leadership would take charge of how nature was 1916: Barguzinsky Zapovednik was created for sable protec- used and put effective nature conservation measures tion. into effect. After the revolution chaos paralyzed the country's lead- After the 1917 revolution: Various documents related to ership, and the economy collapsed. nature conservation were adopted, such as the “Decree On One of the first laws passed by the new leadership was State Zapovedniks with Scientific Objectives, Protecting a Decree on Land that eliminated private ownership of Land Mass, Waters and Natural Resources;” Nature conserva- land. tion issues were transferred from one government body to The policy of “military communism” was based on vio- another. lence and a state of emergency, first and foremost with Financing for zapovedniks practically disappeared. regard to the peasantry. The villages rebelled against the Bolsheviks, threatening their ability to stay in power. 1919: Astrakhansky Zapovednik was created.

1920-1929 Civil War, Collapse of the Economy, New Confusion continued in nature conservation and zapoved- Economic Policy (NEP) nik management. The government agency in charge kept 1921: Amidst political chaos, the harvest failed. More changing. Laws and resolutions were passed and repealed than 30 million people were starving and five million (e.g., the Decree “On Protecting Natural Monuments, died, despite philanthropic efforts inside the country Gardens and Parks”). and from abroad. In August an agreement was signed “Virtual” zapovedniks were created. For example, the“Decree with the American Relief Administration (ARA). On the Creation of the Baikal State Zapovedniks,” developed

8 Russian Conservation News Endangered Ecosystems

1921-1924: NEP replaced “military communism.” NEP by Shillinger (see below) was signed by Lenin on January 31, represented an attempt to utilize market forces to revi- 1921, but never implemented. Financing for zapovedniks talize the economy. It had partial success, but beginning was only symbolic. in 1925 it was abandoned. 1923: The Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) However, there were some positive trends. Seven state was created. nature reserves were officially organized, including 1924: recognized by France and Great Britain recog- Il'mensky, Kavkazsky, Stolby, Voronezhsky, and Kedrovaya nized the USSR. Pad' Zapovedniks. Scientists conducted research in the zapovedniks.

1930-1939 This was the era of Stalin's political repression and The 1930's were marked by the tumultuous development of forced collectivization. Intelligentsia and class “enemies the zapovednik system. Fifteen new zapovedniks were of the people” were exiled or executed. Many scientists added, including Pechoro-Ilychsky, Laplandsky, Altaisky, preferred to work in zapovedniks far from the central Kandalakshsky, Kronotsky, Teberdinsky, Sikhote-Alin, and government and the lethal reach of the NKVD (the Tesntral'no-Chernozemny. predecessor to the KGB). Agricultural policy was characterized by the war against There was an influx of scientific personnel to the zapoved- kulaks (wealthy peasants), and industrial policy by five- niks. Permanent observation techniques of changes in nat- yer plans. ural processes in the zapovedniks evolved and introduced as Poland was divided between Germany and the USSR. the “Chronicles of Nature.” Fundamental scientific work was The USSR attacked Finland. developed, and zapovednik personnel began to publish on Large-scale research programs began. Scientific scientific methods. research institutes were created, leading to multiple dis- coveries in fundamental and applied sciences. Franz Shillinger exemplifies the zapovednik scientist who At the same time, many prospective areas of research suffered from repression but still worked in zapovednik (such as genetics and cybernetics) were suppressed. In management. He organized 20 zapovedniks, authored 20 the atmosphere of general denunciation and repression, government resolutions regarding nature conservation, was academic discussions often ended in reprisal. Real or a Laureate of the USSR Sovnarkom Award, and produced 50 imagined political opposition was often a death war- publications and 10 books. He was denounced for political rant. Leading scientists, such as the biologist and reasons in 1935, and he died in a labor camp in 1943. Also founder of Soviet genetics, N.I. Vavilov, scientist and arrested were his wife, who died in a camp in 1942, and his engineer of rocket science S.P. Korolev, and many others daughter. were victims of repression.

1940-1949 1941-1945 World War II in Russia Significant cutbacks were made in zapovednik personnel - More than 20 million Russians were killed. In European many left for the warfront. Russia, cities and industry were flattened. Zapovedniks carried out government orders and helped the Reconstruction of the economy ruined by war coincid- front by stocking up on medicinal herbs, berries, meat and ed with the rebirth of industry, etc. the like. 1946: The “Cold War” began. 1945: Two new zapovedniks were formed, Darvinsky and Prioksko-Terrasny.

1950-1959 1953-1956: Khruschev emerged as Stalin's successor, 1951: A Council of Ministers' directive signed by and Russia acquired the hydrogen bomb. Stalinliquidated 88 of the 128 zapovedniks. As a result, the 1956-1960: A “thaw” led to acknowledgment of total area was reduced from 12.5 million hectares to fewer Stalinist repression and the rehabilitation of victims. than 1.5 million hectares. 1956: Russia crushed the Hungarian uprising. After ten years of struggle, the area of the zapovedniks 1957: The first man-made satellite (Sputnik) orbited increased to nearly five million hectares. the earth.

Fall 2006 No. 42 9 Endangered Ecosystems

1957: one zapovednik, Lazovsky,was restored. 1960-1969 1961-1964: Space exploration continued, and the first cosmonaut went into space. 1961: Half the area of all zapovedniks was let go for “the East-West tensions reached a peak with the Cuban needs of the economy,” followed by stagnation lasting 15 Missile Crisis. years. 1964: Khruschev was deposed in a Kremlin power Seven new zapovedniks were created, including Baikalsky, struggle, and Brezhnev succeeded him. Khingaisky, and Bol'shekhekhtsirsky.

1970-1979 This era is noted for Brezhnev's “stagnation,” the arms The financing and management of the zapovednik system race, the gradual decrease in the rate of economic was stabilized. Beginning in 1976, the number and acreage growth, and the war in Afghanistan. of zapovedniks increased. Six zapovedniks were created, including Wrangel Island, Taimyrsky, and Sayano- Shushensky. Zapovednik science further developed: scientific centers on zapovednik affairs were created, and unified scientific themes were developed for the system.

1980-1989 1985: Gorbachev came to power which to led to 1983: The first national parks – Sochinsky, Losiny Ostrov, “Perestroika” as the Communist Party tried to revive the were created. In all, 10 national parks were formed in this economy and reduce tension with the West. decade. Twenty-three zapovedniks were created, including Magadansky, Kurilsky, Ust'-Leninsky, Daursky, Kosto- mukshsky, and Tsentralno-Sibirsky.

1990-1999 1991: The USSR collapsed and the Yelstin era began. The unified system of zapovedniks was destroyed, 32 This era was noted for privatization of state property, zapovedniks and 25 national parks in Russia were created -- the impoverishment of much of the country's popula- 67 new areas in total!. The acreage of individual areas is tion, and the emergence of oligarchs. quite significant – Bolshoi Arktichesky Zapovednik is more than four million hectares and the Yugyd Va National Park is almost two million hectares. Areas of some existing zapovedniks also were increased. 1995: Decree 91992 bolstered Specially Protected Areas (SPAs), as did the Law “On Specially Protected Areas” (1995). Funding for the system of specially protected areas dropped to a critical low. There was a sizable increase of poaching stress in SPAs, on the one hand, and significant increase in public support and of the involvement of non-governmen- tal and international organizations, on the other. International organizations contributed significant funding. A new Department of SPAs was created within Russia's Ministry of Natural Resources.

2000-2006 Putin's leadership has been marked by his attempts to These years have seen stagnation in zapovednik affairs, con- lift the country out of the economic crisis inherited stant changes in management of federal protected areas and from Yelstin, primarily by relying on Russia's energy a five-year hiatus in their creation. resources. Only three new federal protected areas have been created, two of which still lack top management. A serious staffing crisis exists. Many professionals have left the management system, there is a general aging of employ- ees, and there is a halt to an influx of young specialists due to low wages, lack of prestige in the profession, and limited future prospects.

Comparative areas of nature preserves and parks. Growth of Russian protected areas, 1917-2006.

10 Russian Conservation News Endangered Ecosystems Then and Now: Updates from Russia's Imperiled Zapovedniks

By Margaret Williams and Natalia Troitskaya

ver the last decade, RCN has verse two river val- Oreported on numerous factors leys. In its early threatening zapovedniks in Russia, stages, the project Ukraine, Central Asia, and other won the support of regions of northern Eurasia. From federal authorities. illegal forestry to road construction, poaching, and the dumping of used Today, there still is rocket parts, zapovedniks have faced no road. On April numerous crises. This status report 25, 2006, the Ministry provides information on several of Natural Resources imperiled zapovedniks. issued a decree adopting the findings of an environmental impact commission Kavkazsky Zapovednik advising against the planned road con- Thirty-five years ago, a major road struction. construction project was proposed to Environmentalists traverse Kavkazsky Zapovednik, one counsel a vigilant of Russia's oldest nature reserves (cre- watch, however. ated in 1924). Protests from scien- Leaders from two tists and others stopped that project. regions promoting However, in RCN's 12 year existence, the road, Karacha- the construction of a major road evo-Cherkessia and through the center of Kavkazsky Za- Adygea, continue to povednik has been proposed several lobby for the project. times. The nature reserve, consisting In November 2006, of several territories inthe northern with the passage of Caucasus, is recognized as a global the new Forest Code, center of plant diversity with a high this issue is again percentage of species (25% of the open, as the law per- species in the nature reserve) that are Photo courtesy of Tunkinsky National Park. mits the construction found nowhere else and as home to of roads and transportation routes endangered wildlife species, including through protected areas. the European Bison and the Cauca- sian tur, a mountain goat. A road Vladimir Cherpakov, then Director of Shulgan Tash Zapovednik would destroy unique habitats for the Adygeya unit of Kavkazsky And Bashiria National Park these important species. Biosphere Zapovednik, appealed to his Russian and international col- In 1998, preliminary construction In 1999, a high-mountain road was leagues for assistance in stopping the began on a major dam on the 550-km proposed, which would scale four project. No road was constructed, long Belaya (“white”) River in the mountain passes ranging in altitude but the threat remained. Several years southern part of the Republic of from 1783 m (Belorechensky Pass) to later, extensive plans for ecotourism Bashkortostan, also known as Bashki- 1956 m (Guzeriplsky Pass). (RCN development in the region included a ria, in the Ural Mountains. (RCN Issue Issue 19, Spring, 1999). The road road through the zapovednik. (RCN 21, Fall 2000). Many interest groups would have bisected the nature Issue 27, Fall, 2001). – environmental organizations, local reserve, passing through the Lagonaki communities, and leaders in neighbor- Plateau (a highly unique limestone More recently, regional authorities in ing regions (including the president of formation) and the Fisht-Oshtensky the Caucasus have promoted a major Tartarstan) – strongly opposed the Mountain Massif (the center of the highway with two tunnels five to construction and staged protests to region's famed plant diversity). seven kilometers long that would tra- stop the project.

12 Russian Conservation News Endangered Ecosystems

The dam's dimensions were signifi- cant. At 70 km long, the reservoir it would create would hold one billion m3 of water. Its purposes were to provide water for chemical and oil industries in the region, create a power source, and control the spring flooding regime of the river. A simi- lar, even larger, project had been pro- posed in the previous decade, but was abandoned in 1989.

Environmentalists adamantly opposed the project. The entire reservoir is sit- uated within Bashkiria National Park. The flooding of the Belaya River would directly impact this park and Shulgan Tash Zapovednik and would violate both regional and federal pro- tected areas legislation. Part of the park's territory to be flooded is desig- nated as an Important Bird Area by Bird Life International. This area pro- vides habitat for such endangered bird species as: osprey (Pandion hali- aetus), golden eagle (Aquila chrysae- tos), white-tailed eagle (Haliaetus albicilla), short-toed eagle (Circaetus gallicus), and black stork (Ciconia nigra). The park also harbors numer- ous rare plants, such as (Minuartia helmii) and (Schivereckia podolica) (listed in the Russian Red Data Book) as well as (Astragalus clerceanus), alpine woodsia (Woodsia alpina), (Tulipa biebersteiniana), and marta- gon lily (Lilium martagon) (listed in the Red Data Book of Bashkiria).

The Virgin forests of Kavkazsky Zapovednik, for now, remain protected. Photo by V. Kantor (Greenpeace of Russia).

Flooding would also likely ruin histor- region's hydrology would heighten ical-cultural monuments nominated environmental and public health as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. risks. In the event of a breech in the dam, over 80 communities would suf- Furthermore, the Bashkiria region is fer from the impacts of the flooding. vulnerable because of its karst land- scape. The region's limestone sub- Today, despite the violations of many strate is subject to erosion and other laws and the serious threats to Ural external pressures. In fact, the unsta- mountain biodiversity and human ble nature of the landscape was cited communities, dam construction is as one of the main reasons for halting complete. The hydropower station is the first project. Opponents feared working, although not at full capacity. the construction of a reservoir on this The waters of the Belaya River are territory could disrupt karst processes, now flooding the park. This summer The Virgin forests of Kavkazsky causing these formations to shift as they reached the territory of Shulgan Zapovednik, for now, remain protected. the water level rises or falls. Experts Tash Zapovednik, where forest and Photo by V. Kantor (Greenpeace of Russia). feared that interfering with the mountain steppe ecosystems meet

Fall 2006 No. 42 13 Endangered Ecosystems and where world renowned ancient dam has also destroyed riparian habi- southern Ural Mountains from the list pictographs are found in the Kapov tat for fish such as Arctic char and of World Natural Heritage Sites. caves. The flood zone includes 2000 trout, and the Siberia taimen and a Meanwhile, contrary to overwhelming hectares of forests with high conser- change in the micro-climate is antici- negative public sentiment, Vladimir vation value. Critical habitat areas for pated to negatively impact other Grachev, Chairman of the Duma 11 wildlife species included in the species, such as the rare Burzyanka Committee on Ecology, remarked that Russian Red Book (the equivalent of honey bee. the reservoir “has a right to exist” and the American Endangered Species will “solve problems related to the List) are being flooded. Already 30 Although there was little recourse for well-being of the population.” Red Book plant species and 13 cultur- opponents of the dam, its construc- al monuments are under water. The tion led UNESCO to exclude the

Tunkinsky National Park

In 1999, former billionaire and ex- chief of Yukos Oil company, Mikhail Khodorkovsky agreed with the Chi- nese government to lay a pipeline from the city of Angarsk, west of Lake Baikal, to Daqing, a city in northern China. Three routes for the oil pipe- line were considered. Environmen- talists adamantly opposed Yukos' sug- gestions. Two of the proposed routes (the “central” and “western” options) would run through Tunkinsky National Park.

Just 20 km southwest of the shores of Lake Baikal, Tunkinsky National Park comprises almost 1.2 million acres of large tracts of coniferous forests along with marshes, deciduous and mixed forests, meadows, and alpine high- lands. In addition to several endemic plant species, the national park also protects endangered fauna such as the Asiatic wild dog (Cuon alpinus), snow leopard (Uncia uncia), gray goose (Ancer ancer), Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra), the Siberian ibex (Capra sibirica), Daurian hedgehog (Hemie- chinus dauricus), two species of bum- blebee (Bombus schrenckii, Bombus modestus), the moor frog (Rana arvalis), and the Mongolian toad (Bufo raddei).

Existing legislation prohibited the construction of these pipelines through a federally protected area, and, on September 2, 2003, the Deputy Minister of Natural Resources Kirill Yankov declared the construc- tion of the oil pipeline to Daqing impossible.

Tunkinsky National Park: will environmental advocates be successful in protecting this With the downfall of Yukos, plans to wild place? Photo courtesy of Tunkinsky National Park. lay the oil pipeline were shelved tem-

14 Russian Conservation News Endangered Ecosystems Russian Zapovedniks Are 90 Years Old. Will they Make it to 100?

By Tatiana Smolyakova

Note from the editors: In November 2006, the Russian Ministry of Natural Resources held an All-Russia conference dedi- cated to the system of zapovedniks in Russia. Minister Yuri Trutnev congratulated professionals working in and for zapoved- niks and presented several outstanding achievement awards. The following opinion piece reflects the general sentiments of many of those who attended the conference.

ussians take well-deserved fishing. There are Rpride in the system of state many additional nature zapovedniks. Yet, its current examples. state of affairs raises concern in those familiar with its operation. Director of In 2000, the 100th zapovednik was Conservation Policy created. Not until the summer of for World Wildlife 2006, however – after a lull of six Fund Russia, Evgeny years – did Yuri Trutnev open the Shvarts, comment- 101st. ed, “Following the latest parliamentary The problem is not only the slug- hearings, an amend- gish rate of creating federally pro- ment was made to tected areas. Worse, in the last few the Forestry Code years, the management structure which allows the for zapovedniks has changed sev- Ministry of Economic Develop- control of the federal government. eral times. During these reorgani- ment to administer national park The new leadership supports the zations, there have been attempts lands. This is the same thing as proposal made by specialists and to remove valuable virgin lands chopping away at lands, and per- the public to create a dedicated from protection. haps even worse. In practical federal agency esponsible for the terms, all 35 national parks are in entire scope of these federal-levet In June of 2003 the Kabardino- jeopardy.” protected areas: science, managing Balkariya government cut back the government property, conserva- acreage of the Kabardino-Balkarsky No decision has been made with tion, and the development of eco- Zapovednik by 30 percent to 33 regard to governmental manage- tourism. hectares. In December 2003 the ment of protected areas. The fed- Cabinet of Ministers of the Adygea eral structure that once managed We understand that there have Republic agreed to give away land these areas has ceased to exist. been discussions within govern- in the Kavkazsky Biosphere There are only three people who ment relating to managing protect- Zapovednik to create an alpine ski remain in the former oversight ed areas and that the idea of creat- resort. A Supreme Court decision body for nature in Russia who are ing a single management center held the ruling illegal. That same responsible for managing 101 was considered. Hopefully the cre- year in western Siberia, the admin- zapovedniks, 35 national parks, ation of a single management body istration of Shilinsky district passed zakazniks (special purpose pre- will occur before the 100th anniver- a resolution to exchange lands in serves), nature monuments, and sary of Russia's zapovednik system the state Khakassky Zapovednik other protected areas. to guarantee that this system will for other lands. Although this res- still be around. olution was overturned, the gov- As long as two years ago, the new ernment nonetheless passed an leadership of the Ministry of Tatiana Smolyakova is a free- ordinance which transferred por- Natural Resources admitted that lance writer. Her article appeared tions of bodies of water within the the system of protected areas has in the newspaper Rossiskaya Gazeta zapovednik for use for commercial de facto fallen out from under the on Nov. 30, 2006.

Fall 2006 No. 42 11 porarily. But Russian oil company Sayano Shushensky Transneft resurrected the project It proposed to lay an oil pipeline – pas- In September 1994, four rangers sing within several hundred meters patrolling Sayano-Shushensky north of Lake Baikal – from the Sibe- Zapovednik, a large nature reserve in rian city of Taishet to the coastal city Sayan mountains of central Siberia, of Nakhodka in the Russian Far East disappeared. Their clothes, sleeping bags, and a half-full saucepan of To the surprise and great pleasure of soup remained at a campsite. environmentalists across Russia, on (RCN Issue 1, Fall 1994). April 26, 2006 (RCN Issue 40, Fall Encompassing over 400,000 2006), at a conference on the socio- hectares of taiga forest, mountain economic development in Siberia, steppe and hundreds of lakes, the Russian President Vladimir Putin de- reserve is in some of Russia's harsh- manded that the pipeline be moved est and wildest terrain. Despite an at least 40 kilometers to the north, extensive search, neither the rangers beyond the Lake Baikal watershed. nor the perpetrators were found. The subsequent investigation Russian conservation organizations revealed tense relations between the have welcomed this decision as a vic- local people residing in the region of ???????? tory for both the environment and Tuva (which borders the zapovednik) for civil society. At the same time, and the nature reserve administra- however, they will vigilantly monitor tion. the situation to ensure that plans to environmental education programs move the pipeline beyond the Baikal For years before the rangers' apparent for young people in the communities watershed are realized. murder, conflicts over property rights near protected areas. After a 1995 and access to pastures for the local conference of zapovednik directors, Today, the proposed northern oil cattle and sheep herders occurred reserves integrated public education pipeline route could adversely impact regularly. This tension likely started programs into their regular opera- the Lena River, one of the world's in 1971 when the Yennisey River dam tions. Today almost all zapovedniks longest rivers and another region rec- was built, flooding hundreds of have a staff person devoted to educa- ognized as important for wildlife con- hectares of fertile grazing lands, three tion. servation. Furthermore, the Russian- communities, and a burial ground of British oil joint venture TNK-VR (a the Tuvan people. Sayano-Shushen- In Sayano Shushensky Zapovednik, consortium including Transneft and sky Zapovednik had no program for rangers continue to patrol this vast British Petroleum) has announced its alleviating this tension and lacked the wild region, and now work closely intention to lay a gas pipeline from capability to enforce its protective with law enforcement inspectors the Kovyktinsky gas field in the regime at its borders. from two neighboring zapovedniks Irkustsk region to China, using a route Khakasky and Ubsurnrusky Kotlovina. that would cut through Tunkinsky Today, the zapovednik system still has They share information, communicate National Park. At a public meeting no formal conflict resolution training on the radio, and conduct joint raids held on November 1, 2006 in Mos- for staff to resolve resource use prob- in their efforts to protect wildlife, cow, representatives of TNK-VR advo- lems with local people. However, their prime focus being protection of cated that a “southern” option there is a broad-scale effort to develop the rare but coveted snow leopard. through the Lake Baikal World Heri- tage Site would be environmentally less dangerous than the northern option. Environmentalists have expressed concerns that, to accom- modate business interests, laws may be amended to change the boundaries of the national park or allow the pipeline to run through it. Tunkinsky Administrative District in the Republic of Buryatia, with a population of about 23,000 inhabitants, needs a gas supply, and this may be an additional political factor favoring gas pipeline development. ????????

Fall 2006 No. 42 15 Ecological Tourism On the Shores of Lake Baikal: Russia's First Zapovednik

By Natalia Troitskaya

mong Russia's 101 zapovedniks, ABarguzinsky has been one of the most beloved in Russia and abroad. Its popularity cannot be fully ex- plained either by the romance associ- ated with the name “Baikal” or the virgin nature preserved there. Bargu- zinsky Zapovednik is an object of national pride and a symbol of the conservation movement in Russia. It was the first zapovednik created dur- ing Tsarist Russia. Although the gov- ernment structures crumbled in the Russian revolution, the new regime recognized Barguzinsky, and the reserve remained intact. Later, during the two infamous periods of destruc- tion of the zapovednik system, nei- ther Stalin nor Khrushchev could stamp out Barguzinsky.

Early on, the zapovednik built its rep- utation in environmental protection. The spectacular landscapes of classical and unique Barguzinsky Zapovednik. Under the leadership of Zenon Photo by H. Machguth. Svyatosh, the reserve's first Director, Barguzinsky's employees frequently treasure. Under Ivan the Terrible (in my of Sciences dispatched three sci- risked their lives to stop poaching. the 16th century) it was a crime to entific research expeditions to the Their actions in the 1920s and 30s export live sable from Russia, the areas known to be the richest for created an unusual set of ethics and punishment for which was death. At sable: the eastern Sayan Mountains traditions that continued in subse- that time, up to 500,000 pelts would (south central Siberia), the Kamchat- quent generations of nature reserve be harvested annually, with 200,000 ka Peninsula, and Lake Baikal. staff. Even in periods of starvation of them paid as taxes to the state during the nation's civil war, Bargu- treasury. However, by the early 20th One of these expedition groups zinsky employees continued to century, unlimited sable hunting led arrived at the northeastern shore of observe this ethic. This high level of to the animal's nearly complete extir- Baikal on July 1, 1914. Here in one of integrity remains to this day. pation. By 1910 as the sable popula- the most inaccessible and remote al- tions diminished, just 27,000 sable pine taiga landscapes, they found sev- Restoring the sable (Martes zibellina) were harvested. eral dozen sable – a very small num- is one of the reserve's most important ber, but more than could be found in achievements. Barguzinsky took it In July 1912, the federal government any other place in Russia at that time. from the brink of extinction to com- passed a law entitled “On the Estab- The researchers discovered that, in mercial viability. Recognized as a valu- lishment of Sable Hunting Limits” addition to the sable's comparatively able fur-bearing mammal, this is one which laid the foundation for Russia's greater numbers, the animals had of the few obvious examples where a first federal nature reserve. It speci- some other special features. The fur zapovednik contributed directly to fied that zapovedniks must be perma- of this local sable population was the state's economy. Ironically, fulfill- nent, established at the federal level, exceptionally dense and its coloration ing an economic imperative set in and involved in science and the study extremely dark, two traits especially motion a system of strict nature pro- of nature protection. By 1913, the valued in the sable fur trade. tection valued on its own terms. very best scientists were called in to address the problem of the sable These features would prove to be im- The sable long played an important decline, and a complete ban on all portant factors in the site selection role in the economy of the Russian hunting was enacted for three years. for Russia's first zapovednik. As a empire and was valued as a national At the same time, the Russian Acade- result of the expeditions' work – pri-

16 Russian Conservation News Ecological Tourism marily that of the Baikal expedition – researchers developed a plan to res- tore the sable to a more viable popu- lation level and identified the best place to do so. Thus, here on the western slope of the Barguzin Moun- tain range, the first zapovednik in Russia was created.

Contrary to zapovedniks' current pur- poses (ecosystem research, conserva- tion and education), the early mission of Barguzinsky Zapovednik was solely the study and restoration of the sable to commercially sustainable levels. It was initially called the sable “hunting zapovednik” although no sable hunt- ing was permitted. Instead, the sable's predators, the so-called “ene- mies” and “foraging competitors” – Photo by H.Machguth. bears (Ursus arctos), wolvervine (Gulo gulo), lynx (Lynx lynx), Siberian weasel (Mustela sibirica) ermine remains a cornerstone of the zapo- Site. One hopes that its proud history (Mustela erminea), wolf (Canis lupus), vedniks' work today. and long conservation traditions will snowy owl (Nyctea scandiaca) and be recognized, appreciated, and sup- even the nutcracker (Nucifraga cary- This year Barguzinsky Zapovednik is ported for many years to come. ocatactes), were hunted. celebrating two anniversaries: its 90th birthday and the 10th anniversary of Natalia Troitskaya is Managing In time, the Russian scientific com- its designation as a World Heritage Editor of RCN munity realized that “harmful” preda- tors and “useful” species are part of a unified ecosystem. Gradually, Barguzinsky: Classical And Unique Barguzinsky shifted from a zapoved- nik focused on conservation of “valu- People In the late 19th Century, only five or six Evenk families retained the able” commercial species to one with rights to the land where the remnant sable lived. They leased it to Russian a comprehensive conservation mis- hunters, who over-harvested the fur-bearing mammals. Government sion of protecting the ecosystems of authorities moved this group of indigenous people out of the region to an the northeast Lake Baikal region and area about 200 km north of their traditional grounds. the western slopes of Barguzin Mountain Range. By the 1940's the Flora Baikal is the world's oldest, deepest, and coldest lake. Its cold tem- sable had been restored to its habitat peratures have led to an unusual zonation of alpine plant life and forest dis- around Lake Baikal. tribution. Whereas larch forests are typically found in upper alpine zones, and dark conifers in the lower altitudes, in this zapovednik those trends are As the first scientific research center reversed. Here one can find more typical landscapes as well, including taiga on Lake Baikal, the zapovednik made and colorful alpine meadows, impassable shrub thickets and wide sandy many scientific contributions. The beaches, high alpine lichen tundra and fields of grass as tall as a person, scientists developed many original solid Siberian pines (Pinus sibirica) with a diameter of more than four approaches to research which meters, wedge-leaf (Salix sphenophyll), Arctic (S. аrctica) and net-leaved wil- became classical, widely applied lows (S. reticulata) that are all of 10 centimeters. Endemic plant species are methods. For example, beginning in also found here, such as Craniospermum subvillosum and Astragalus trigno- 1937, Barguzinsky scientists initiated carpus. a monitoring program to track and record natural processes (appearance Fauna Barguzinsky is home to wildlife species commonly found in central of migratory species; the timing of Siberia, but is also home to a highly unusual mammal - the world's only flowering plants; climate patterns; freshwater seal, the Baikal seal. (Phoca sibirica). In spring, as the ice thaws, and more). This system of record- it is possible to see seals swimming in the zapovednik's waters or resting on keeping, now known as the Chronicle the shores at Cape Pongone. The thermal springs, with temperatures 76 of Nature (Letopis Prirodi), became a degrees Celsius, support species atypical for the region, such as Dione's rat unified program throughout the snake, which lays its eggs in the warm, heated sands along the lake. zapovednik system in the 1970s and

Fall 2006 No. 42 17 Ecological Tourism Research and Conservation of Barguzinsky Zapovednik's Sable population

By Y.M. Chernikin

he history of the sable (Martes munism. This upheaval even affected until large-scale capturing and mark- Tzibellina) is an example of man's remote areas of Siberia. Accordingly, ing were undertaken. Animals kept in sometimes fatal influence on the des- studying the sable progressed slowly. captivity yielded the first important tiny of animals. By the beginning of information. In 1928-29, in the the twentieth century, the protracted The sable is a secretive animal rarely Moscow Zoo, zoologists under the pursuit of its valuable fur brought the viewed by man. For this reason, leadership of Professor Petr A. sable to the brink of annihilation. direct observations in a natural set- Manteifel established that sable mat- The species could have disappeared, ting are essentially impossible. ing takes place in June and July and as did the Steller's Sea Cow Dissection and research of sable car- birth in April and May. A long latent (Hydrodamalis gigas) among others. casses harvested by hunters in the phase, which is difficult for a non- Fortunately, scientists concerned summertime yield useful scientific specialist to discern, is charac- about the Russian wilderness and the material, but information about the teristic of the animal's wild sable population were able to winter life of the animal can be gath- pregnancy. After these obtain a prohibition on sable-hunt- ered only by tracking in the snow, a discoveries, suc- ing, and urgent measures to save this difficult physical labor, requiring pro- cessful breed- valuable animal were undertaken. fessional skills. ing of

The creation in Siberia of Barguzinsky The life cycle of the sable Sable Zapovednik was part of this remained practically unstudied effort. As attempts to breed the ani- mal in captivity increased, it became clear that scientists lacked knowledge about the biology and ecology of the sable. Barguzinsky Zapovednik, along with other scientific institutions research- ing commercial game species, became a laboratory in which data about the life cycle of sable could be gathered. Unfortunately, attempts to study and stablize the sable population coincided with the social upheaval that enveloped the country - the Great October Revolution, the civil war, and difficulties in the early period of building com-

Thanks to Barguzinsky Zapovednik we are still able to see this amicable creature, the sable, in the wild. Photo by V. Sutula.

18 Russian Conservation News Ecological Tourism the sable on farms began, as did even if they were transported 20 to sometimes possible to extract them intensive laboratory research into its 30 kilometers away. from their dens, usually located in tree embryonic development. hollows, by chopping up the sides. Eventually the scientists concluded At Barguzinsky Zapovednik, scientists that catching sables on trees and in After years of research the scientists (members of the expedition of Georgi their dens with the use of sable-hunt- learned about the migratory patterns G. Doppelmeyer) roamed the winter ing huskies, rather than with traps, of the sable. When there was an taiga of Podlemorye with native sable yielded better results. Escaping from abundant food base, the sable settled hunters, observing the animal's habits the dogs, the animal would climb into in one place, and population density and capturing some for breeding. a tree. With the help of grappling attained maximal size. As the feed They kept a few captured animals in a irons, the hunter could climb up the base declined, marked animals were sable nursery, attempting to create tree and, with a slip-knot snare fas- caught by commercial hunters far conditions appropriate for their tened to the end of a small stick, from the zapovednik's borders in vari- reproduction. They also collected ensnare the sable around the neck ous directions – specifically, from biological material (carcasses, internal and put it in a sack. Capturing them Chitkan and Alla to the lower reaches organs) from sable harvested by on trees, like the work of a steeple- of the Upper Angara River and the hunters in the zapovednik's opera- jack, requires strength, bravery, and upper reaches of the Kirenga River. tional section. Later, the scientists skills, but it is effective. It was also Some sable remained in the marking created feeding areas to region after 10 or 11 years. attract and harvest certain The most mobile were the categories of sable, and in young. Some animals 1951-55 they conducted which had not been caught embryological research of in the marking region for some phases of the in several years then suddenly vitro development of reappeared and lived in a sables. settled way. Apparently the animals' behavior was deter- In recent decades wide- mined by their particular spread capture and mark- situation and individual ing for study has occurred. traits. This was difficult work as reliable methodologies did The scientists also gained not yet exist. The animals more limited information had to be caught alive and about the rearing of young. uninjured. The scientists, If young animals were cap- through observation, tured in late summertime, could gather information the mothers removed the and mark them, before litter to a den as much as releasing them back into three kilometers away. the wild. Thereafter, the However, these observa- animals were recaptured tions were permitted only if at various intervals and re the brood nest was not studied. Catching the damaged. The scientists sables was a challenge. determined the length of Capturing the animals at the mating and spring molt- feeding stations seemed ing seasons, as well as the the most feasible latter's dependence on the approach, but only starv- food base. During the mat- ing animals went to the ing season, females still bait stations, and they have their previous litters. were poor specimens for the study of a healthy Despite progress in this dif- population. Once they ficult scientific research, were caught in a trap, the many specific traits of the starving animals returned life of sable still remain repeatedly, because they unknown. perceived this as their only chance for survival. Evgeny M. Chernikin Already by the 1960's Evgeny Chernikin had chosen the focus of his They returned to the trap is Chief Scientist at scientific observations. Photo provided by E. Chernikin. Barguzinsky Zapovednik

Fall 2006 No. 42 19 Ecological Tourism Despite Government Changes, Barguzinsky Zapovednik's Work Continues

By Gennady Yankus

he zapovednik system has experi- quence, the tribe ceased to exist and Barguzinsky Zapovednik. The Tenced radical changes in purpose its name changed to “Evenk.” Zapovednik had its own airport with and administration in its 90 years. a dispatch service, its own airplane, Russia's zapovedniks and national Russia's policies toward zapovedniks motorboat, power plant, tractors and parks were created according to a change depending on the desires of cars. A shop, bakery, school, first-aid plan “from the top.” They often had those “at the top,” rather than being station, library, club and post office all a negative impact on the social and established by law. For example, in operated in the hamlet. Ten years of economic conditions of the local the 1970s and early 1980s, the effort went into creating an infra- population due to the removal of nat- Department of Zapovedniks actively structure. In the absence of dirt ural resources from their use. A sig- promoted (sometimes forced) the roads, materials were transported by nificant portion of Russia's rural pop- construction of settlements (central helicopters and along the ice road on ulation obtained its food supply “in farmsteads) for staff members on the Lake Baikal - about 200 kilometers. the forest.” For example, before territory of zapovedniks and the In the late 1980s Barguzinsky Barguzinsky Zapovednik was organ- expansion of the network of ranger Zapovednik was spending about 80 ized, the land belonged to the stations. This effort was expensive percent of its annual budget main- Shemagir tribe of the Tungus people, and diverted attention from the pri- taining the infrastructure, and the who hunted and fished there. After mary goal of protecting the ecosys- staff could devote little attention to the Zapovednik was formed, the tems. conservation and scientific research. Tungus were forced to the northern areas and later resettled beyond In that period about 100 people lived During the period of perestroika, Baikal in collective farms. As a conse- in Davsha, the central settlement of when the regional social-economic

Davsha, the central village for Barguzinsky staff from the 1950s to 1990s. Photo by V. Teterin.

20 Russian Conservation News Ecological Tourism system disintegrated, the leaders of the zapovednik system moved its management to the regional seat of government. The gradual de-popula- tion of the central hamlet and its eventual liquidation followed. As a consequence, many specialists left the Zapovednik. It fell to me to destroy the collective I had created. Carrying out the decision was extremely diffi- cult for morale, as well as presenting organizational challenges.

The absence of a consistent conserva- tion-development strategy based on scientific theory and legal norms remains a problem. Zapovednik heads must be able to rely on a clear vision, not subject to the ever-chang- ing views of bureaucrats and special interests within the staff. Bureaucrats advocate adopting foreign practices into our conditions, sometimes with- out realizing the harm they may cause.

The development of tourism in spe- cially protected territories, specifically, in Barguzinsky Zapovednik, can serve The most reliable form of transportation for Barguzinsky Zapovednik is the ferry, tradi- as an example. The physical remote- tionally named in honor of Zenon Svyatosh, the reserve's first director. Photo provided by ness and related large transportation N.Troitskaya. costs, the lack of infrastructure, the short tourist season, and the absence of any kind of activity and entertain- a natural phenomenon, and, on small ing, we cannot now terminate this ment unavoidably nullifies the opti- areas of the Zapovednik's territory, right, but this practice must be ad- mism of promoters of tourist activity. from the scientific point of view, they dressed in the future if the purposes Even if Zapovednik staff were to should be allowed to burn. But, as of the zapovednik system are to be improve the tourist infrastructure of one of the leaders of the Russian realized. the preserve materially, using it for Ministry of Natural Resources put it, just three months a year (since the “People would not understand us if In the midst of everyday worries, it is climatic conditions of Siberia don't we did not put out fires; there's no important to remember and appreci- lend themselves to travel in the cold norm regarding what is the correct ate the people who work for the seasons) would not be rational. What action to take, and we should not preservation of our country's natural can a remote zapovednik so difficult give the “Greens” any reason for hys- riches. People who dedicate them- to visit offer vacationers? After being terics….” selves to nature and advocate its pro- subjected to a ten-hour aquatic jour- tection are the heart of the zapoved- ney, they encounter millions of mos- The problem of legal use of the nik system. The Barguzinsky Zapo- quitoes and minimum conveniences. Zapovednik's natural resources is vednik staff is no exception. More We need to offer basic services to even more serious. Specifically, the than 80 scientists, office workers, people who have traveled hundreds law permits people living on inspectors, and physical workers labor of kilometers. At present this activity zapovednik land to use the zapoved- in his or her own way to preserve their not only distracts staff from their pri- niks' natural resources. Zapovednik homeland's heritage. New people mary jobs, but it places them in a employees are allowed to catch fish, come to join those already committed moral quandary - to preserve the nat- gather fruits, mow hay, pasture live- to the cause, and with them - new ural riches of the Zapovednik or stock, etc. on its territory. This situa- ideas, hopes, and results. Work and life make money. tion invites distrust in the zapoved- in the Zapovednik, despite the numer- niks' staff and the zapovednik system ous problems, continue. Other issues confront Barguzinsky among the residents of neighboring Zapovednik. For example, brush territories. Considering that zapoved- Gennady Yankus is the Director of fires caused during thunderstorms are nik employees are paid next to noth- Barguzinsky Zapovednik.

Fall 2006 No. 42 21 For Discussion A New Zoning Scheme for Lake Baikal's Watershed

n November 27, 2006, Russia's no teeth or specific measures to en- of activities which could potentially OPrime Minister Mikhail Fradkov, force the zones, and simultaneously adversely affect the unique ecosys- signed Order 1641-R (published on overrode an existing law that limited tems of the lake. December 2, 2006) which provides activities within a one-kilometer implementing legislation for a series buffer zone around the lake. • The ecological zone of atmospheric of zones that include nearly the entire influence is the area outside the watershed of Lake Baikal. The goal of The new law includes: watershed of Lake Baikal, up to 200 this Order is to preserve the unique • The Central Ecological Zone of the kilometers to the west and north- ecosystems of the lake and to prevent Baikal Natural Area includes Lake west of it. In this area, construction negative impact by economic or Baikal and its islands, aquatic pro- of new commercial buildings, or the other activity. tected zones adjacent to Lake expansion or reconstruction of Baikal, as well as specially protected other structures will be prohibited This recent order is significant in the areas adjacent to Lake Baikal. unless these projects have been detail it provides, particularly regard- Regulations governing this zone reviewed favorably by a state envi- ing the various zones and the stricter provide the mechanism to prevent ronmental impact assessment. level of protections than those which industrial development on the had been put in place in 1999. At shores of the lake. It has taken seven long years to final- that time, a federal Law “On Protec- ize this Order, requiring research, ting Lake Baikal” was passed which • The buffer ecological zone of the lengthy negotiations with regional divided the Baikal natural area into Baikal natural area is the area governments, and environmental fea- three zones with different levels of beyond the central ecological zone, sibility studies. Meanwhile, unregulat- conservation. However, the 1999 law including the watershed for the ed development on the shores of was problematic, in that it provided Lake Baikal area and limits a variety Baikal and logging have occurred.

Another step forward has been taken to save the world's oldest, deepest, and longest lake – Baikal. Photo by H.Machguth.

22 Russian Conservation News For Discussion Report from the Altai Conservancy: Altaisky Zapovednik Retains Its Status

By Phyllis Arata-Meyers

n 2006 Altaisky Zapovednik with- ing to Altaisky Istood an effort to convert it to a were blown up, less protected national nature park. and the zapoved- Altaisky Zapovednik, the third largest nik office build- zapovednik, located in southern ing was set on Siberia, encompasses 880,000 fire. The director hectares and in 1998 was declared a of one of the World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The tourist resorts boundary of the preserve includes (Taiga Cove) shoreline and approximately half the pressed charges waters of Teletskoye Lake. Teletskoye of criminal is a 1000-foot-deep gem situated high assault against in the boreal-forested mountains, and Trigubovich. The its mild micro-climate and intense Ulagan court, beauty make it attractive to tourists however, on and real estate developers. three separate occasions, Teletskoe Lake is recognized as a United Nations World Heritage Site. A zapovednik is a federal strictly pro- returned the case Photo by S.Usik. tected area affording protection of a to the prosecutor's complete ecosystem from human office for lack of substance. Eventu- declared that Altaisky would remain incursion with the exception of scien- ally the two-year statute of limitations protected as a zapovednik. tists and anti-poaching rangers. Des- ran out, and the case was dismissed. pite the zapovednik's strict protection, In addition to his role as director, in the 1990s 11 tourist camps were In 2006 the current governor of the Trigubovich is the president of a constructed along the Teletskoye Lake Altai Republic, Alexsander Berdnikov, Russian NGO, the Altai Foundation, shore within Altaisky Zapovednik. In interested in making protected which advocates for environmental 1994 the local authorities illegally wilderness available to private enter- conservation at the Ministry of Natural withdrew approximately two hectares prise, criticized the management of Resources for both Altaisky Zapoved- from the zapovednik and, in 1996, Altaisky Zapovednik and accused nik and his country's environment. It constructed a road inside the zapoved- Trigubovich of a number of viola- promotes environmental education nik, which made the construction fea- tions. He appealed to the Russian efforts in the Altai and supports anti- sible. In 2003, Vyacheslav (Slava) Minister of Natural Resources and poaching and scientific expeditions to Trigubovich became the director of proposed a change in the status of research the biodiversity of the region this zapovednik and began challenging Altaisky from a strictly protected and to protect endangered species, the development. After discovering zapovednik to a national nature park. including the snow leopard and argali that the tourist camps lacked proper Reclassification would enable the sheep. Trigubovich remarked, “This permitting documents, Trigubovich Altai Republic governor to exercise reserve belongs to the whole country, asked for their removal and subse- full authority over the territory that to all of us. And, clearly, we are obli- quently challenged the legality of these now lies within the zapovednik, with gated to preserve it for our descen- properties in court. This year the first the degree of protection to be deter- dents.” The problems and pressures three cases were decided in Altaisky's mined by the governor. faced by Altaisky represent the more favor, declaring the incursion illegal general challenges of maintaining and requiring the eviction of the own- Berdnikov demanded Trigubovich's zapovedniks in the new Russian econ- ers and demolition of the structures. resignation, prompting another inves- omy. Altaisky can stand as a model - tigation. As reported in “Vremia and an inspiration – for the entire The situation was volatile. Trigubo- novostej” (Time News), August 2, zapovednik system. vich was repeatedly threatened. In 2006, several violations were discov- 2006 three men broke into the ered, but all of these resulted from Phyllis Arata-Meyers is Executive h-ome of Vladimir Trulayev, a deputy actions of Trigubovich's predecessors. Director of the Altai Conservancy, a director of the reserve, beat him, and Trigubovich was commended. Altaisky Vermont-based NGO which raises attempted to hang him. He was was inspected by a team from the funds to support the Altai Foundation. saved by a neighbor who raised an Ministry of Natural Resources in Its work is described at www.altaicon- alarm. Two motor launches belong- Moscow, and the Deputy Minister servancy.org.

Fall 2006 No. 42 23 For Discussion Students Explore Zapovedniks in the Russian North

By Tatiana Golubeva

he American Association for the The first group TSupport of Ecological Initiatives traveled to Vodlo- (AASEI) provides an unparalleled zersky National opportunity to explore Europe's park an area of northern reaches for international pristine lakes, university-level students interested in rivers and forests Russia and conservation of its nature. in Northeastern Karelia. The Since 1996, AASEI has offered pro- Vodlozersky grams concentrating on Russia's envi- Director/ ronment and culture. In a four week Coordinator, program, they introduce students to Elena Kuznetsova, the unique Russian system of protect- accompanied the ed areas (called “zapovedniks”) students on where they meet Russians working in excursions in the the reserves and Russian students park, coordinated also interested in the environment. several work proj- Before the traveling across Lapland reserve spaces In cooperation with its Russian part- ects and provided Photo by T. Golubeva. ner from St. Petersburg, the Center an exceptional for the Support of Ecological opportunity for the Initiatives (called ADONIS), headed students to carry out educational and Eljnjun. The students asked for luck by Dr. Alexander Karpenko and recreational activities with a group of at Said, a sacred stone of the Sami, Larissa Karpenko, AASEI organizes children at the Summer Nature Camp the indigenous people of the Kola scientific research projects, academic (for kids ages 8-17). As one of the Peninsula. internships, work camps, environ- AASEI students wrote: “However, my mental exchanges, and eco-tourism. experience there will be one that I will The students visited places of interest AASEI's goal is to provide practical never forget. There is no better way to in the Murmansk region. They toured support to Russian Zapovedniks, improve your language than by speak- the Polar-Alpine Botanic Garden- expand opportunities for interna- ing with children, and I found the peo- Institute, one of the oldest institutes tional scientific research, and pro- ple at Vodlozersky to be so open, of the Russian Academy of Sciences mote international understanding of warm, and welcoming with their on the Kola Peninsula and traveled to these unique protected areas. knowledge, kindness and and culture. Monchegorsk, on the banks of Lake Not only was the nature and wilder- Imandra, now a centre of the nickel The summer program provides a base ness there unbelievably beautiful but I and copper industries, to see the for future scientific and professional formed many new friendships with Museum of Local Lore, Museum of activity. The students work with children and other Russians.” Colored Stone, and the Holy employees of the zapovedniks and Ascension Cathedral. local specialists to conduct research The second group traveled to investigations, addressing both politi- Laplandsky Biosphere Zapodvednik, The students also took an excursion to cal and educational issues impacting established in 1930 to protect a por- Vikis waterfall on the Kola Peninsula. the environment and managing its tion of the European Far North's vir- The way was long and difficult. natural resources. gin forests. Their program, called Hidden in the Chingls-corch Canyon, Talisman of Lapland, includes hands- situated above Lake Vikis, the waterfall The students in 2006 hailed from on ethnography with participants crashes down as a narrow stream from Moscow, St. Petersburg, the United taking part in Russian folk games, the ledge, falls 40 meters, and turns States, and Holland. The first two customs, and traditions. Most of the into a river rapidly flowing into the days of the program included getting program, however, is devoted to lake. Chingils-corch means “deep to know the other students, taking studying the nature of the Kola canyon” and Vikis means “through excursions in St. Petersburg, and Peninsula and Laplandsky Biosphere lake.” The deep canyon separates training on handling conflict situa- Zapovednik. On the second day, the Monche and Volchya Tundras. Lake tions. The students were then students hiked the eco path to the Vikis is 100 meters deep despite of its assigned to one of two groups. top of a 514-meter mountain, small circumference. Inspired by the

24 Russian Conservation News For Discussion waterfall's natural power and energy, In addition to these outdoor adven- critical stopover areas for migratory the students then traveled by motor- tures, the students worked with birds along the North Atlantic flyway. boat across Chuna Lake to Lake reserve specialists. Inspectors from There the students hiked on reserve Kenzis. the security department (managed by territory, took an excursion along the Natalia Mulikina) showed them Svir River, participated in practical This trip created lasting memories. around the reserve; employees of the trainings with research employees, Bert Bratton, a student from research department described the and talked with ecological depart- University of Alaska, recalled, “During reserve's flora and fauna; and library ment employees. our trip to the waterfall, we felt the department employees demonstrated strong conditions of the North - it was how to use the card index of the sci- Filled with memories, the students raining, hard wind was blowing but entific activity carried out in the returned home, realizing that “there the senior inspector V. Kurgansky sup- reserve. Sergei Shestakov, the [in Russia] is majestic nature” and “the ported and inspired us the whole way. reserve's Director, informed them people who really love the nature It's hard to imagine that we were so about the development, goals, and work at the reserves.” far away from populated areas, in the objectives of the protected area. For depth of Lapland forests.” the first time this summer, Inspector Tatiana Golubeva is a program G. Sipko spent an evening reciting his manager in the ecological education Olga Afanasieva, a Russian agriculture poems, to the students' delight. department of Laplandsky Zapovednik student, reflected, “The trip to Vikis and camp leader of the Talisman was the main event of this camp, this After 11 days, the two groups met in ethnographical camp of Lapland. She summer, and maybe this year. This the Nizhnesvirsky Zapovednik. Less traveled with the students to the journey united everything: the beauty than a five-hour drive from St. Peters- Laplandsky and Nizhnesvirsky of northern nature, a small test of our burg, bears, wolves, and lynx find Zapovedniks. For more information solidarity, and, of course, meeting peo- sanctuary in this nature reserve's about the program, visit ple working in the reserved.” secluded forests. This reserve protects http://www.wesleyan.edu/aasei

On the slopes of Elyuyun Mountain Photo by T. Golubeva.

Fall 2006 No. 42 25 Conservation History Voronezhsky Zapovednik in the Lens of History

By Lisa Woodson

and bred them in captivity- founded two dynasties at the the first experiment of its zapovednik. kind in the world. By the late 1930s, the zapovednik Like many zapovednik staff in the was sending beavers to other 1930s, Leonid Lavrov was the child of parts of the Soviet Union for pre-revolutionary nobility. As a boy introduction into the wild. he joined a young naturalists' club Over next 40 years, nearly and later studied at the prestigious 3,000 beavers were trans- Moscow Fur Institute. In 1932 he vis- ferred from Voronezhsky ited the zapovednik, and, upon grad- Zapovednik to other areas. uating two years later, he came to stay. His distinguished scientific Unlike zapovedniks now career took him across the Soviet which function as strict Union and neighboring countries, and nature reserves, zapovedniks his articles and monographs on and zapovednik science in beavers are seminal works in the field. the mid-20th century were more utilitarian: they made Vitaly Romashov's path to the forests more “productive” zapovednik was not so direct. Born and increased the numbers in 1921, he served in the Soviet army of economically “valuable” during World War II. Taken prisoner species, such as deer, in a battle near Kiev, he was held in through artificial means. concentration camps in Poland and Voronezhsky Zapovednik's Germany. When he was liberated goals following its establish- from Dachau on April 29, 1945, he The author, Lisa Woodson, with beavers from the ment included studying and weighed 101 pounds. The experience Voronezhsky Zapovednik captive breeding facility. fostering beaver populations was so harrowing that he decided on Photo provided by L.Woodson. - in captivity and in the wild the most peaceful and peace-promot- - with a view to establishing ing profession he could think of: he beaver colonies in other became a veterinarian. In 1952, hav- areas; studying and increas- ing just graduated from a Moscow ince first visiting zapovedniks in ing the populations of game animals; institute, Romashov and his wife Sthe Russia seven years ago, I have and protecting and improving the moved to the zapovednik. They realized that each zapovednik has its condition of the zapovednik's forests. arrived in late summer and were met own story about the people who live warmly. In anticipation of their and work there as much as about the Those early decades brought fascinat- arrival, the staff had planted a garden landscapes and animals they protect ing people to the zapovednik system that spring so the young family would and study. who were in Russian slang fanatiki. have potatoes and other vegetables As explained by Nikolai Nikitin, who for the fall and upcoming winter.. On a sunny May morning, walking in came to Voronezhsky Zapovednik in Voronezhsky Zapovednik in western 1971 catching the tail end of the hey- In those years, the beaver farm Russia, I find myself in front of a gate day of the beaver farm and beaver included a large house with over 20 and a small concrete building, all that science, “They were fanatics of their beaver pens that extended into the remains of the beaver farm that once work, not just anyone off the street, river. The staff studied all aspects of made this zapovednik one of the but people who were indeed pur- beaver biology, including the practi- Soviet Union's flagship nature posefully coming to give something, calities of raising them in captivity, reserves. Thanks to these animals and to receive something, to create some- transferring them to other locations, their prized pelts, the zapovednik was thing to be remembered.” Not only domesticating them, and treating established in 1927. Expeditions in were the science director, Leonid their parasites. The social and scien- the early 1920s had uncovered several Lavrov, and his colleague Vitali tific environment birthed many dis- beaver colonies in this area. Staff sci- Romashov beaver specialists with coveries. For example, before a entists caught wild beavers and raised regard to these animals, but they beaver could be transferred to anoth-

26 Russian Conservation News Conservation History er location, it had to be treated for parasites. Beavers bite-so Romashov and his team of scientists and lab assistants developed an umbrella mechanism for opening a beaver's mouth so it could receive medication. The Komarov tranquilizer bullet was also developed at Voronezhsky Zapovednik.

That environment also affected the scientists' children. Leonid Lavrov's son Vladimir, a noted beaver expert who currently heads the beaver farm, helped his father catch wild beavers from the time he was in the eighth grade. Similarly, Vitali Romashov's son Boris followed in his father's footsteps, becoming the zapovednik's resident veterinarian and a distin- River valleys provide prime beaver habitat. Photo by L.Woodson. guished expert on parasites and para- site-related health concerns, work he shares with his wife Natasha. Both ly, from 85-year-old Vitaly Romashov research, but is disappointed in the the Lavrov and the Romashov family to his 6-year-old granddaughter. post-perestroika ruin of the beaver have now seen three generations liv- Boris Romashov speaks with great farm from four buildings with 200 ing in the zapovednik. energy and affection about the beavers and 15 staff people to one zapovednik; his wife Natasha refers to building with just a handful of staff, he There was a fundamental difference him as an “enthusiast.” Their three tells me: “it's not all about the money between these two distinguished men children associate the word “zapoved- of course, but it's not unimportant.” and their families: the Romashovs nik” with “home.” Boris Romashov Lavrov purposefully sent his son to were warm, open, and optimistic, the hopes his children-the eldest is now study in a military academy in hopes Lavrovs more reserved and less in college-will follow in his footsteps. that his future would be brighter out- “romantic.” I note this difference side the zapovednik than within it. myself during my stay at the zapoved- Vladimir Lavrov does not share this nik, when the Romashovs invite me optimism or from-the-soul affection The original utilitarian ideals of to their home repeatedly to meet for the zapovednik. Like his father, he nature conservation as a kind of man- every member of their extended fami- is a true devotee of science and agement of nature have largely given way to the concepts of noninterven- tion and observation of nature. Zapo- vednik science and science in general no longer have their former prestige, privileged position or economic sup- port. Today the beaver farm supplies animals to zoos rather than leading the world in cutting-edge research. As I walk away from the beaver farm, I think of the elder Romashov and Lavrov, of their teachers, and of their children and students, of the legacy they built, and the picture of its demise symbolized in the decay of the old beaver farm. Fortunately, other scientists and other areas of sci- ence - botany, soil science, wildlife ecology - still keep the flame of scien- tific research in the zapovednik.

Lisa Woodson is a former editor Voronezhsky Zapovednik's main building at Graphskaya Station. Photo by L.Woodson. of Russian Conservation News.

Fall 2006 No. 42 27 Conservation History News of the Day

New National Park Created in Karelia On November 30, 2006 the Russian Government created Kalevalsky National Park in the Republic of Karelia, the north- western province which borders Finland. The park is comprised of 74,400 hectares, almost all of which are forest land. Kaleval- sky is the first national park created in Russia in the last seven years and took 11 years to create. The idea of a national park gained popularity in recent years among those living in the city of Kostomukshka and nearby villages to help preserve the last remaining Karelian wild forests and create new tourism-related employment. Kalevalsky National Park was created to protect one of the last large areas of natural forest preserves in Karelia, which is a rem- nant of the natural-cultural landscape central the Karelian epic Kalevala. The park encompasses taiga (northern forests) ecosys- tem, providing a model of nature undisturbed by humans. Kalevala National Park. Photo by V. Kantor. Kalevalsky Park is unparalleled in Finno-Scandinavia in the extent to which it preserves many types of forest ecosystems – species of vascular plants, five of which are included in the particularly the dry pine forests on rocky substrates and glacial Russian Federation's Red Book of endangered species (similar to deposits. Aboriginal flora and fauna flourish in the park, which the Endangered Species list in the United States). The diversity serves as a gene pool for forest species. In addition to its unique of animals is also considerable, including 26 species of nesting forests, the park contains a wealth of rare bog and lake ecosys- birds such as the Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetus) and Peregrine tems which need special protection. The park harbors 429 Falcon (Falco peregrinus) also listed in the Red Book.

Russian a winner in Wildlife Photographer of the Year Competition Igor Shpilenok, founder of Bryansky Les Zapovednik and a wildlife pho- tographer, won the Urban and Garden Wildlife category in this year's BBC Wildlife Photographer of the Year Competition. The Competition, owned by the Natural History Museum in London and BBC Wildlife Magazine, received more than 18,000 entries from 55 countries which were judged for their composition and originality in 12 adult and two youth categories. Shpilenok's photo called Still life and bear shows a brown bear peering through a cabin window. While the category conjures up images of backyard cats, Shpilenok says this was his backyard in the Kronotsky Zapovednik on Kamchatka, home to the famed Valley of the Geysers. Photo by I.Sphilenok. In the contest's 40 years, Shpilenok is the first Russian to win a prize depicting wildlife in Russia. How did Shpilenok get his photo? While working early one morning in his cabin, he heard a noise in his porch. Thinking it was his colleague who lived next door, he invited her in. Receiving no response, he pushed the door open with his foot. When the door bumped against something, he stuck his head through to apologize. It wasn't a person but a bear which had pried open the outside door and was nosing around. “It looked up at me in a seemingly friendly manner,” says Shpilenok, “but I quickly closed the door.” The bear turned to leave, knocking things over. As Shpilenok reached for his camera, there was the bear, peering at him through the window. “This was the only photo I had time to take before the bear left. I had put out the lemons on the window sill to ripen, never imagining they would add the final touch to such a surreal still life.” The exhibit of all the winning and commended photos is at the Natural History Museum in London until 29 April 2007. For more information about the exhibit, go to www.nhm.ac.uk/wildphoto. Shpilenok's winning photo, and the other winning photos, can be viewed in the Online Gallery at that site. Shpilenok's body of work is on view at www.shpilenok.com. This information was provided in a press release issued by the British Natural History Museum.

28 Russian Conservation News Conservation History

WANGO calls the work of the Altai World Association of Non-Governmental Foundation “truly inspiring and critical.” Organizations (WANGO). The prestigious WANGO awards committee chairman, Dr. WANGO awards recognize non-govern- Noel Brown, is the President of Friends of mental organizations (NGOs) throughout the United Nations and the former North the world “that demonstrate exceptional American Regional Director of the United effort, service, innovation, and excellence.” Nations Environment Program (UNEP). A Founder of the Altai Foundation, as well He first met Mr. Trigubovich and the as the Altai Conservancy, and the Director Executive Director of the Altai Conservan- of Altaisky Zapovednik, Slava Trigubovich, cy, Phyllis Arata-Meyers, this past May in will accept the award at WANGO's World New York. Discussion centered around Congress in Amman, Jordan. the scope of the Altai Foundation's work The Awards Committee was “particularly and the critical role Russia's conservation impressed with the unprecedented activi- efforts have on the global environment. ties of the Altai Foundation to protect the Among past recipients of WANGO awards nature reserves of the Altai Republic and are the Arias Foundation for Peace and promote a more balanced and sustainable Human Progress (2002) and Roots of ecological approach.” The Foundation's Peace (2005). For 2003, WANGO recog- work includes environmental education nized the Green Belt Movement of Dr. initiatives, scientific research, anti-poach- Wangari Maathai with the Environment ing patrols, sustainable enterprises for Award, the year before she received the local peoples, and advocacy for Russian Nobel Peace Prize. conservation and the zapovednik system. Its dedication to protecting the biodiversi- WANGO is the world's largest internation- al association for non-governmental Kalevala National Park. Photo by V. Kantor. ty and habitat of Altaisky and surrounding areas, despite intense challenges from organizations. With members in over 140 those who would like to exploit these countries, and close to 70,000 members resources for personal gain, is “remark- and subscribers, the Association encom- able.” The Foundation is also engaged in passes the vast spectrum of the NGO Altai Foundation Receives the process of proposing a new zapoved- world, ranging from small nonprofits International nik, specifically designed to protect the focused on their local communities to Environmental Prize Russian snow leopard and its last known major international organizations with breeding habitat. The Altai region, located global agendas. By Phyllis Arata-Meyers in southern Siberia, is a globally significant The Altai Foundation of Novosibirsk, Phyllis Arata-Meyers is Executive center of biodiversity, including the Russia and Altai Conservancy of Director of the Altai Conservancy, endangered snow leopard, and is desig- Woodstock, Vermont announced that the a Vermont-based NGO which raises funds nated by UNESCO as a World Heritage site Altai Foundation was the recipient of the worthy of UNESCO biospheric status. to support the Altai Foundation. 2006 Environmental Award from the

New Forest Legislation for Russia On December 4, 2006, Russia's President Vladimir Putin signed into law a new Forestry Code for the Russian Federation, which became effective on January 1, 2007. The first reading of the law in the federal Duma had been in April, 2005. In the subsequent period over one thousand amendments had been proposed (but many rejected). The code is comprehensive, addressing issues such as the classification of forest types; property rights; division of management authority between the federal and regional governments; and utilization of forest resources. In general, the new code transfers considerable authority for forest management from the federal government to the regions. Environmental experts anticipate that this development will complicate the process of creating new protected areas – and will make nearly impossible the concept of ecological networks and connective “corridors” – in certain parts of Russia, where authority for for- est management is divided between regions or provinces. At the same time the Forestry Code was adopted, the Federal Law “On Implementing the Forestry Code of the Russian Federation” was also passed. This law abolishes the requirement to conduct state environmental impact studies of draft documentation related to the use of forests. It likewise removes the necessity for public hearings, which had been required by law under the law on environ- mental impact assessments. In essence the new Forestry Code will lead to a fundamental reconstruction of the entire forestry system. Moreover, many experts are convinced that the results of these reforms are unpredictable and feel it is unlikely that the uncertainty of these forestry reforms will be capable of stimulating more effective conservation, protection and use of forests. The same goes for responsible use of forest- ed areas, the development of advanced technologies to manufacture forestry products, and rational use of forested areas. For more information on the new forest code, visit: http://www.wwf.ru/about/what_we_do/forests/codecs/eng

Fall 2006 No. 42 29 US Fish and Wildlife Service Continues Support for Russia's Protected Areas In October of 2006, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced the results of its Sixth Small Grants Competition under a partner- ship program with federal nature reserves (“zapovedniks”), national parks, special purpose preserves (“zakazniks”) and regional nature parks of the Russian Federation. Of 102 proposals received, 96 met the competition criteria and were forwarded for assessment to a six-person review panel in Moscow. The Moscow panel referred its 88 highest ranking proposals to a four-person review panel in Washington, D.C. The results of those independently conducted evaluations were then compiled, with the opinion of the Moscow panel constituting 2/3 and the Washington, D.C. panel 1/3 of the final score. Applicants receiving the highest combined rating were select- ed for awards. The average grant is $7,132. Examples of some of the successful proposals include those from Astrakhansky Zapovednik on the Volga River delta, which won $7,401 for a boat, video camera, and night vision scope. Oksky Zapovednik, known for its role in captive breeding and reintroduction of rare crane species, received $7,500 for a patrol vehicle and digital video camera. In the remote southern steppe regions of Russia, Cherniye Zemli Zapovednik received $7,459 for field uniforms and boots, spare parts, and a camera. Siberia's Shushenksy Bor National Park received $7,470 for construction of land-based & floating ranger stations. In its announcement of the awards, the USFWS recognized that “Russia's protected natural areas play a crucial role in biodiversity conservation on our planet. The Fish and Wildlife Service is confident that these grants will serve to strengthen ties with Russian col- leagues under a program of cooperation which has continued uninterrupted for more than 30 years.” For more information about the results of the grants program, contact: Steven Kohl, director of the US-China program within the International Affairs Division at the US Fish and Wildlife Service. Email: [email protected]. Telephone: 703/358-1762

World Wildlife Fund Opens Office on the Kamchatka Peninsula In September, 2006, World Wildlife Fund-Russia celebrated the official opening of its newest field office in Elizovo, Kamchataka, just outside the city of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatksky. Under the direction of Laura Williams, conservationist and long-time resident of Russia, the office will coordinate all of WWF's terrestrial activities on the Kamchatka Peninsula related to improving management in the region's federal and local protected areas; developing socioeconomic incentives as a tool to increase support for nature reserves such as Koryaksky Zapovednik; conservation of brown bears and other wildlife species; and addressing threats to Kamchatka biodi- versity such as overhunting, mining and unsustainable resource use. The office will also coordinate WWF's work in the western Bering Sea, including a major salmon conservation initiative; reducing seabird bycatch in the longline fishing fleet; illegal fishing in the salmon and groundfish fishery; and protection of marine habitat, particularly in the Commander Islands, an archipelago globally reknown for its diversity and abundance of seabirds, marine mammals, fish, and marine invertebrates. The Commanders, home to a community of about 700 people, are protected as a Biosphere Zapovednik and are considered a high con- servation priority for WWF. The new Kamchatka field office is a new addition to the WWF's Kamchatka/Bering Sea ecoregion, which has US field offices in Anchorage and Homer, Alaska. For more information and a recent copy of the ecore- gion's annual newsletter, visit:

30 Russian Conservation News Bulletin Board

Track the movements of one of Russia's rare eagles!

RCN friend and colleague, ornithologist Dr. Mike McGrady, reports on a new web site that allows viewers to track the migrations of Steller's sea eagles, Haliaeetus pelagicus. The eagle, listed in Russia's Red Book of Rare and Endangered Species, has a limited range, spending summers in Russia's Far East, and wintering mostly in Japan. One of the world's largest raptors, with a wing span of nearly nine feet, the Steller's sea eagle inhabits Russia's Magadansky Zapovednik, where Dr.s Irina Utekhina and Eugene Potapov have been researching the bird's natural history, population status, and distribution for over a Photo by E. Potapov. decade.

To track a Steller's sea eagle, visit: http://www.natural-research.org/news/SSE_SDZ_news.htm

Barguzinsky Zapovednik: Anniversary Album Published

A new series of colored photographical collections of Russia's famous zapovedniks and national parks is being launched with the publication of an edition commemorating the 90th anniversary of Barguzinsky Zapovednik. The Protected Wilderness of Russia: Barguzin Zapovednik includes photos of Lake Baikal, and other wild landscapes in the nature reserve as well as the plants and animals it protects. It promises to be a volume that will appeal to younger and older generations alike. Russian and English text.

For more information, or to order the album, contact: Ekonomika Publishers, 40, Dolgorukovskaya Street, Moscow, 127006. Tel: +7 (499) 973-39-19; E-mail: [email protected]

Long-Awaited US-Russia Polar Bear Treaty Legislation Just before the 109th United States Congress adjourned in 2006, long-awaited implementing legislation was passed that enacted the US-Russia Agreement on the Conservation and Management of the Alaska-Chukotka Polar Bear Population. The treaty, which had been signed by both nations in 2000, and ratified by the US Senate in 2003, was supported by indigenous people's organizations and environmental groups alike. The treaty will allow for Russian indigenous people residing in the north to hunt polar bears -- for subsistence only - for the first time in 50 years. Although Alaska Natives have been allowed to harvest bears for subsistence, the hunt was banned in Russia completely. As a result, illicit hunting occurred anyway, and there was no mechanism to collect observations about these animals. The treaty will involve Russian and Alaskan natives, as well as scientists and government officials, in setting and enforcing quotas. Other provisions will improve conservation of the transboundary polar bear population in this Arctic region of the Bering and Chukchi Seas, such as the establishment of a joint US-Russia commission to develop joint research. As climate change has dramatically altered the Arctic sea ice, understand impacts to polar bears and developing measures to reduce stress on the species, are paramount.

For more information, see: http://www.fws.gov/international/pdf/pbearagmt.pdf http://www.worldwildlife.org/wildplaces/bs/updates/polarbears.cfm

Fall 2006 No. 42 31 Table of Russian Zapovedniks and National Parks

32 Russian Conservation News