I. The Chuisk Zone (North Kyrgyzstan)
1. Econet elements in the Chuisk Zone:
- No. 35: a planned complex zakaznik reserve including the existing Yablonevaya Schel
botanical zakaznik reserve;
- No. 40: the existing Ala-Archa national park with a planned extension;
- No. 41: planned zones of limited nature use, strict protection, and sustainable nature
management;
- No. 42: a planned core of zapovednik reserve.
Existing SPA:
- two tracts of the Keminsky national park
- the Dzharly-Kaindinsky complex zakaznik reserve
- the Ak-Suisky zoological zakaznik reserve
- the Chon-Kurchaksky botanical zakaznik reserve
- the Chon-Aryksky botanical zakaznik reserve
2. Compilers:
Shukurov, Emil Dzhaparovich – The ALEINE Environmental Non-governmental Organization;
Ionov, Rostislav Nikolayevich – The Biological and Soil Institute of the Kyrgyzstan National
Academy of Sciences, senior researcher;
Lebedeva, Lyudmila Petrovna - The Biological and Soil Institute of the Kyrgyzstan National
Academy of Sciences, senior researcher;
Balbakova, Farida N. – a SPA expert;
Shikhotov, Vladislav Mefodievich – International University of Kyrgyzstan, head of bioecology
department
Zhumashev, Kasymaly Zhumashevich – Kyrgyz National University, head of tourism
department;
Domashov, Ilya – the BIOM international environmental NGO (phone: (996312)650136,
(996312)586782);
Kankuliyev – representative of regional agency for environmental protection;
Medvedev - representative of regional agency for environmental protection;
Asangariyev, Eldiyar – Kyrgyz Agency for environmental protection and forestry.
3. Protected zone area
The existing SPA’s in the Chuisk zone cover approximately 80,000 ha. The total area of planned
core zones is estimated at 100,000 ha. The total area of econet elements in the Chuisk zone is
600,000 ha.
4. Altitudes above sea level
The Chuisk zone is a mountainous area that follows the Kyrgyz Ala-Too ridge (1500 to 4400 m.
a.s.l.). The highest mountain of the ridge is the peak of Zapadny Alamedin (4875 m a.s.l.)
5. Justification of econet criteria
The Chuisk zone stretches along the Kyrgyz Range, with its gliding intergradation of co-existing
species characteristic of the North and West Tien-Shan. It supports habitats and migration routes
of many wild animals (the snow leopard, black vulture, bearded vulture, hawk-type raptors, lynx,
wild boar, Siberian ibex, Himalayan snowcock) as well as archa and spruce forests that need
protection. It is also a riverhead formation zone. A dense river network is inhabited by many fish
species.
6. Suggested protection status
A zone of limited nature use, with strictly protected core zones (zapovednik reserves) and a zone
of sustainable nature use.
7. Physiographical description (topography, hydrography, climate, soils)
The Chuisk zone stretches to 375 km along the Kyrgyz Ala-Too Ridge in the North Tien-Shan
(North Kyrgyzstan and, partly, at the Kazakhstan border). Altitudes reach up to 4875 m. The
Tyoo-Ashuu pass at the height of 3,586 m divides the Kyrgyz Range to the eastern and western
parts. Just west of the pass, the range is bordered on the south by the Talassky Alatau ridge. The
western part of the Kyrgyz Range, with altitudes of up to 3817 m, has a coarse topography and
little glaciation. The eastern part of the range has an alpine topography and is extensively
glaciated, with about 600 glaciers that cover an area of up to 500 km2. Slopes of the Kyrgyz
Range that face the Chuisk valley have a very rugged topography. Its spurs up to 50 km long
vary in elevations from 1500 to 4000 m. The southern slope of the eastern Kyrgyz Range has
short (up to 25 km) valleys with altitudes of 3000 to 4000 m.
The climate varies from temperate continental and subarid (in piedmonts) to boreal and mountain
tundra type (in highlands). The climate formation is affected by Arctic, Atlantic, and tropical air
masses. Mountains hold moisture and bring about local winds that blow from the mountains to
the valleys at nights (mountain winds) and in the opposite direction during days (valley winds).
The Chuisk zone belongs to young mountain structures, where seismic processes are still active;
ongoing tectonic processes are a factor of rock evolution in the North Tien-Shan.
There, as altitudes grow and hydrothermal conditions change, grey and chestnut soils typically
give way to mountain medium-humus chernozem soils. Spruce forests on slopes grow on
mountain brown forest soils, while archa forests and fruit trees prefer mountain cinnamon soils.
Slopes above the tree line are dominated by mountain meadow soils and mountain peaty soils.
8. Ecological overview
The area is dominated by nival and subnival landscapes, alpine meadows (150,000 ha), subalpine
meadows (100,000 ha), and highland meadows. The mountain belt is represented by highland
savannoids (over 300,000 ha) that are mainly used for cattle grazing. Piedmont stretches of archa
and spruce forests are occupied by zoological zakaznik reserves, game reserves, and game
husbandries. Present are also small-leaved forests and deciduous scrubs. Anthropogenic
landscapes used for crop production have an insignificant proportion.
9. Important and protected objects
Highlands of the Chuisk zone are inhabited by animals and birds of prey that are listed in the
Red Data Book of the Kyrgyz Republic, such as the snow leopard, black vulture, bearded
vulture, and lynx. Forest steppe areas are home to indicator species like the wild boar, Siberian
ibex, and Himalayan snowcock. Habitats of these animals are spruce and archa forests that need
special protection too. The Orsini’s viper and a few endemic mollusks can be found in piedmonts
and at medium heights. The most important vegetation communities of medium heights are
andropogon-and-wheatgrass savannoids, and feather-grass-and-fescues steppe associations. The
Chuisk zone comprises the Ala-Archa national nature park (22,000 ha), Chon-Kurchaksky and
Chon-Aryksky botanical zakaznik reserves (100 ha each), the Yablonevaya Schel botanical
zakaznik reserve (100 ha), the Aksuisky complex zakaznik reserve, and the Dzharly-Kaindinsky
zoological zakaznik reserve.
10. Land tenure/ownership
The Chuisk zone comprises 11 raions (administrative units), whereof most are located in the
Chuisk Oblast (province). Settlements come down to 10 small villages. Agricultural lands
covering about 100,000 ha are private or communal property used for agriculture and as highland
or medium-height grazing grounds. 400,000 ha are state reserve lands, with 5% belonging to
state forest lands, and 3% being designated as SPA.
11. Current land use
Lands used for growing crops are sparse in the Chuisk zone, with just a few business entities in
the area. There are deposits of complex ore, ornamental stones, and construction materials in the
west of the Chuisk zone; mining plants next to the Chon-Keminsky national park in the northeast of the Chuisk zone; and mineral springs that are intensively exploited.
12. Threatening factors
Geographically, the zone is located in the Chuisk Oblast, which is the most populous province
nationwide (over 1.5 million people). The proximity to the capital city of Bishkek makes the
Chuisk zone more vulnerable because of a heavy recreation pressure from city dwellers visiting
the nearest national park, mountaineer camp, zakaznik reserves, ski resorts, thermal springs etc.
The anthropogenic impact on natural ecosystems is especially pronounced in summer, as
domestic cattle (over 100,000 heads of cattle, over 250,000 of sheep and goats) are put to
pastures in the piedmonts of the Kyrgyz Range. The commonest violations of land use are
unsystematic cattle grazing, illegal hunt and forest felling. Mining puts a considerable
technological impact on natural landscapes, so activities of private miners may be a certain
problem, as far as future econet coordination is concerned.
13. Conservation measures taken
Compared with the total contour area, the Chuisk zone comprises some 3-5% of existing
zapovednik reserves and national parks; and some 6-10% of game, botanical, and complex
zakaznik reserves. Game zakaznik reserves and private game husbandries are protected by
security rangers. The Ala-Archa national park has security staff. Botanical zakaznik reserves are
not protected.
Officially, natural resources of the Chuisk zone are controlled by inspectors of the Chuisk
provincial section of the Environment and Forestry Department, mainly with respect to illegal
forest felling and illegal hunting.
14. Suggested conservation measures
- No. 35: To extend the area of the existing botanical zakaznik reserve of Yablonevaya Schel by
5000 ha;
- No. 40: To extend the area of the existing Ala-Archa national nature park by 90% and divide it
into functional zones;
- No. 41: To organize a zone of limited nature management with strictly protected core zones
(zapovednik reserves) and a zone of sustainable nature use. Game husbandries should control the
observance of bugging quotas of game and commercial animals, as well as provide protection of
the ecological corridor along the Kyrgyz Range. It is suggested that a nature park be established
in the chasms of Shamsi and Kegety. The Alamedin and Ala-Archa river catchments should be
designated as a zone of limited nature management, because they affect an environmental and
sanitary well-being of Bishkek.
- No. 42: To organize a zapovednik reserve.
15. Social and economic overview
The Chuisk zone is close to Bishkek, the capital city of the Kyrgyz Republic. Many of its
inhabitants that live in villages work in agriculture, while others have jobs in towns and suburbs.
The main problem of the Chuisk valley is the forced immigration from other provinces and, as a
result, a high unemployment rate and expansion of settlements, which may threaten econet
elements in the focal zone.
16. Active environmental organizations and projects
Not any large-scale conservationist actions or projects have been carried out in the focal zone.
17. Scientific research
No recent botanical or zoological research has been carried out in the Chuisk zone. Earlier data
are available.
II. Western Tien Shan
1. Econet elements in the Western Tien Shan zone:
- No. 3: Includes existing SPA – the Kara-Buurinsky zapovednik reserve, Sandalashsky
zoological zakaznik reserve, Sandalashsky portion of the Besh-Aralsky zapovednik reserve;
- No. 4: the Besh-Aralsky state zapovednik reserve with an extension;
- No. 5: includes existing SPA – the Sary-Cheleksky state zapovednik reserve, Padysha-Atinsky
state zapovednik reserve, and Batrakhansky forest zakaznik reserve;
- No. 6: includes existing SPA – the Besh-Tash National nature park, Chychkansky zoological
zakaznik reserve, Uzun-Akhmatsky forest zakaznik reserve;
- No. 7: the planned buffer zone of the Zapadny Tien-Shan biosphere reserve includes existing
SPA’s – the Miskin-Saisky forest zakaznik reserve and Kuru-Kolsky forest zakaznik reserve.
2. Compilers:
Shukurov, Emil Dzhaparovich – The ALEINE Environmental Non-governmental Organization;
Asangariyev, Eldiyar – Kyrgyz Agency for environmental protection and forestry.
Balbakova, Farida N. – a SPA expert;
Bektemirov, Alymzhan Kazybayevich – head of biodiversity and SPA sector, National Forest
Service of the Kyrgyz Republic;
Chyngozhoyev, Abdymital Turgunaliyevich – regional coordinator of the EuropAid project on
biodiversity conservation in the West Tien-Shan;
Ermatov, Askar – head of Forest Protection and Conservation Station;
Zholdoshev, Maksat – deputy head of Forest Protection and Conservation Station;
Ionov, Rostislav Nikolayevich – The Biological and Soil Institute of the Kyrgyzstan National
Academy of Sciences, senior researcher;
Lebedeva, Lyudmila Petrovna - The Biological and Soil Institute of the Kyrgyzstan National
Academy of Sciences, senior researcher;
Shikhotov, Vladislav Mefodievich – International University of Kyrgyzstan, head of bioecology
department
3. Protected zone area
The existing SPA’s cover a total area of 285,116 ha. Planned core zones cover about 200,000 ha.
Planned zones of limited nature management cover 700,000 ha. The total area of the Chuisk zone
is about 1,4 million ha.
4. Altitudes above sea level
It is mainly a mountainous area that includes the Chatkalsky, Sandalashsky, and Talassky ridges,
with maximal altitudes of 3500 to 4200 m. a.s.l., and medium-height valleys in the catchments of
the Chatkal and Ters rivers (1800-2000 m a.s.l.)
5. Justification of econet criteria
Especially valuable in the area are unique forests: walnut and wild fruit tree forests, archa and
spruce/fir tree forests, broad-leaved and tugai forests, pistachio and almond tree forests. Thanks
to these, the Western Tien Shan is considered one of the world’s most important ecoregions
having a special importance for conservation of the biological diversity and support of stable
environments. Also present are communities typical for continental deserts, mountain steppe,
savannoids, and meadows.
The wildlife is very diverse and concentrated in a relatively small area. There are about 2000
species of vascular plants, with 600 genera and 100 families. The flora is to 12% endemic. Over
a hundred local species are ancestral forms and relatives of agricultural crops (about 50% of the
total species number in Central Asia).
Rare animal species listed in the Red Data Book of Kyrgyzstan include the Menzbier’s marmot,
snow leopard, bear, marten, argali, vultures, hawk-type raptors, falcons, Himalayan lynx etc.
The vertebrate fauna is represented by some 40 mammal species, 300 bird species, 10 reptiles, 3
amphibians, and 20 fish species. The invertebrate fauna is studied to 15-80% depending on
species groups. Registered are about 10,000 insect species of 25 orders. Many groups of
invertebrates have a high endemism at the species, order, or higher taxonomic levels.
The Western Tien Shan discharges about 10 cubic km of fresh water per year to adjacent areas.
6. Suggested protection status
Buffer zones and core zones of the Western Tien Shan transboundary biosphere reserve and a
zone of sustainable nature management.
7. Physiographical description (topography, hydrography, climate, soils)
The focal zone stretches over the Talassky Alatau ridge and its spurs: the Chatkalsky,
Sandalashsky, Pskemsky, Maidantalsky, and Ugamsky ridges that trend almost parallel in a
south-westerly direction. The Chatkalsky ridge, in its turn, has large spurs of Sargardon,
Kumbel, and Kuraminsky. The Pskemsky ridge produces the Koksuisky spur, while the
Ugamsky ridge is extended by the Korzhantau mountains. Numerous streams flow from the
Western Tien Shan mountains to feed main water arteries of the area – the Chatkal and the
Pskem rivers.
The geographic situation and topography of the Western Tien Shan determine principal natural
and climatic features of the region. Its remoteness from oceans is responsible for the severe
continental and generally arid climate. Its surroundings are extremely arid, with evaporation
being twice greater than precipitation. High mountain ridges that condense moisture from the
upper atmosphere mitigate the arid and continental character of the climate and therefore support
abundant and diverse organic life. Medium-altitude mountains have a warm forest climate, with
mean air temperature of the coldest month being -8 °C and that of the warmest being +20 – +26
°C. Upper mountains are dominated by a cold continental climate with virtually no frost-free
period. The snow line in the Western Tien Shan is as high as 3700 to 4000 m a.s.l., which can be
explained by the general aridity of the climate. Since most of the ridges rise just above the snow
line, the glaciation is not so expansive there, as it is in the higher Central Tien Shan. As it has
been observed in recent decades, most glaciers have retreated in the Tien Shan and smallest ones
have disappeared completely. The contraction of mountain glaciers may negatively affect the
ecological well-being of the area, because the glaciers attract and accumulate much of the
atmospheric moisture. The main soil type in the Western Tien Shan is mountain grey soils.
8. Ecological overview
The Western Tien Shan is very diverse as far as its landscapes and natural ecosystems are
concerned. The most widespread forest ecosystems are archa forests (arboreal and elfin forms)
covering about 600,000 ha and spruce-and-fir and nut-bearing forests (150,000 ha) that are
especially valuable in this zone. Maple and small-leaved forests grow in some areas. Medium
heights are occupied by deciduous shrubs (130,000 ha) that have grown on forest felling sites
and overgrazed pastures. Alpine, subalpine, and medium-altitude meadows (500,000 ha) are
primarily used as summer grazing grounds.
Medium-height savannoids covering about 1 million hectares dominate in the Western Tien Shan
and occupy all over it on altitudes from 1300 to 3000 m a.s.l. This ecosystem is especially
abundant at altitudes between 2000 and 2500 m a.s.l.
9. Important and protected objects
Endemic species of animal and plant listed in the Red Data Book of the Kyrgyz Republic are as
follows: the Menzbier’s marmot, snow leopard, bear, marten, argali (Ovis ammon polii),
Himalayan lynx, Himalayan Griffon Vulture, Saker, Paradise Flycatcher, Golden Eagle, Bearded
Vulture, White-winged Woodpecker, porcupine, Black Stork etc. Other animals include Siberian
ibex, stoat, least weasel, red marmot, Chukar Partridge, Himalayan Snowcock, wild boar,
badger, relict suslik, Bearded Partridge, White-throated Robin, Rose Starling. Relict nut-bearing
forests, pistachio forests and almond forests. Spruce and fir-tree forests, archa forests, scrubs.
Established in the area are:
1. Sary-Cheleksky state zapovednik reserve (23,000 ha);
2. Padysha-Atinsky state zapovednik reserve (15,000 ha);
3. Kara-Buurinsky zapovednik reserve (59,000 ha);
4. Besh-Aralsky state zapovednik reserve (82,000 ha);
5. Sandalashsky tract of the Besh-Aralsky state zapovednik reserve (25,000 ha);
6. Sandalashaky zoological zakaznik reserve (19,000 ha);
7. Besh-Tash national nature park (12,000 ha);
8. Chychkansky zoological zakaznik reserve (36,000 ha);
9. Uzun-Akhmatsky forest zakaznik reserve (14,000 ha);
10. Batrakhansky forest zakaznik reserve (600 ha);
11. Miskin-Saisky forest zakaznik reserve (483 ha);
12. Kuru-Kolsky forest zakaznik reserve (33 ha).
10. Land tenure/ownership
The zone comprises 4 raions (administrative units) of the Zhalalabat Oblast and 3 raions of the
Talas Oblast. About 15% of lands (mainly in Chatkalsky and Toktogulsky raions) are owned by
raion akimiats (local authorities), 50% are state reserve lands, 10% are state forest lands, and
25% are specially protected areas.
11. Current land use / 12. Threatening factors
Surroundings of the Western Tien Shan belong to the most populated areas in Central Asia,
which may threaten biodiversity conservation in the zone. It is a purely rural area. A shortage of
energy resources makes the local population use forest trees for fuel and construction purposes.
Lack of statutory regulations prohibiting cattle grazing in mountain forests negatively affects
young trees and undergrowth, but also leads to a selective feeding of domestic animals on certain
groups of plants. Lack of pasture rotation in high mountains results in the degradation of
intensively used pastures and substitution of primary natural vegetation by secondary ruderal
associations. Illegal and legal hunt by local population and visitors is a reason for a decline of
populations of the most valuable large mammals.
Deposits of precious metals were discovered in the Western Tien Shan zone. They have been
exploited with a growing intensity, new mines have being founded. Natural attractions of the
zone, such as Lake Sary-Chelek, mountain parklands, healing mineral springs, and pilgrimage
places imply a high recreation pressure that is virtually impossible to control.
13. Conservation measures taken
The area includes 15 to 20% of zapovednik reserves, and 10% of zakaznik reserves, as compared
with the total contour area. All existing state zapovednik reserves and national parks have
organized security programmes. Reserve staff are well enough trained and technically equipped
with the support of the GEF/World Bank project on biodiversity conservation on the Western
Tien Shan.
Botanical zakaznik reserves are virtually not protected. Forest zakaznik reserves are protected by
rangers of respective forestry divisions. Zoological zakaznik reserves are protected by rangers of
game husbandries; the Kyrgyzokhotrybolovsoyuz Society; and the State Glavokhota Service of
the Kyrgyz Agency for Environmental Protection and Forestry.
14. Suggested conservation measures
To establish buffer zones and a core zone for the Western Tien Shan transboundary biosphere
reserve and a zone of sustainable nature management.
It is suggested:
- No. 3: To expand areas of existing SPA’s with a buffer zone. To establish a core of the West
Tien Shan biosphere reserve;
- No. 4: To expand the area and the buffer zone of the existing Besh-Aralsky state zapovednik
reserve;
- No. 5: To expand areas of the following existing SPA’s: the Sary-Cheleksky state zapovednik
reserve, the Padysha-Atinsky state zapovednik reserve, and the Batrakhansky forest zakaznik
reserve with a buffer zone;
- No. 7: A zone of limited sustainable nature management.
15. Social and economic overview
The focal zone includes a small number of villages, mainly along its eastern border. The
population is dominated by the Kyrgyz and the Uzbek. It is a hardly accessible area, with many
villages isolated from the outer world in winter. Communications are poorly developed. Main
occupations of the people are cattle husbandry, collecting nuts and fruit. High migration rates to
the Chuisk Oblast can be observed, while employable people become seasonal migrants to
neighboring countries of the former Soviet Union.
16. Active environmental organizations and projects
The GEF/World Bank Central Asian Transboundary Project has been running from 2000 to
2006. Its primary goal is to establish a network of specially protected natural areas of various
levels, to establish an integrated network of the Great Ecosystem of the Western Tien Shan that
will provide conservation of 80% of the regional biodiversity; to carry out an ecological and
economic demarcation, with establishing nature management zones beyond the protected areas,
where regimes of limited economic activities compatible with the purpose of biodiversity
conservation can be applied.
In the framework of the WWF ‘Gifts to Earth’ project, The Padysha-Ata state zapovednik
reserve was established, the Besh-Aralsky state zapovednik reserve expanded, and state acts for
land tenure obtained.
The Kyrgyz-Swiss Forestry Support Programme has been implemented since 1995 and is
aimed at provision of favorable conditions for various institutions and private persons working in
the field of Kyrgyzstan forestry; at conservation of forests and forest biodiversity; expansion of
forest cover and sustainable use of forest resources. The project donor is the Swiss Agency for
Development and Cooperation.
Since 2001, the EuropAid (TACIS) project ‘Biodiversity Conservation at the Western Tien
Shan’ rendered assistance to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan in conservation of
biodiversity and landscapes, in the establishment of a transboundary park, and in social and
economic development of local communities situated in the buffer zones of protected natural
areas. The general goal is to decrease dependence on natural resources and to mitigate threats to
biodiversity by means of social and economic development and a more effective selfadministration in the borders of the (planned) Western Tien Shan Transboundary Nature Park
and in adjacent areas.
Since 2004, a Kyrgyz-Norwegian programme of ‘Sector Forest and Environment’ has been
implemented with the support of the Norway’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It focuses to
monitoring forest ecosystems in Kyrgyzstan.
17. Scientific research
1. Among modern complex studies of the Western Tien Shan (flora, fauna, land use, social and
economic studies), one should mention regional expeditions along main ridges of the Western
Tien Shan (2001-2004): (The Kyrgyz portion of the Western Tien Shan: V.M. Shikhotov, B.K.
Kumushaliyev, T.Z. Tokmergenov, V.O. Peshkova, G.A. Laz’kov, A.I. Kurmankulov et al.) and
works of E.Dj. Shukurov.
2. Golovkova, A.G. 1990. Vegetation in Kirghizia. (Rastitelnost Kirgizii Frunze: Ilim 1990. 455
p. (in Russian).
3. Ionov, R.N., Lebedeva, L.P., Sultanova, B.A. Rare unique and endangered vegetative
associations of the Tien Shan and Alai in Kyrgyzstan. (Redkiye unikalniye, nakhodyaschiyesya
na grani ischeznovenia rastitelnye soobschestva Tyan-Shanya I Alaya Kyrgyzstana. Izvestiya
NAN KR. Ilim, No. 1-2. 2001. p.p. 48-50 (in Russian).
4. Pavlov, V.N. Vegetation cover of the Western Tien Shan. (Rastitelny pokrov Zapadnogo
Tyan-Shanya. M: Izdatelstvo MGU. 1980. 246 p. (in Russian).
III. The Inner Tien Shan
1. Econet elements in the Inner Tien Shan zone
- No. 12: the planned Toguz-Torouzsky national park with strictly protected core zones
(zapovednik reserves) and a zone of limited sustainable nature use; includes the existing ToguzToroussky zoological zakaznik reserve covering 26,000 ha;
- No. 13: a zone of limited environment friendly nature management (part of the planned buffer
zone of the Western Tien Shan biosphere reserve);
- No. 39: a planned complex zakaznik of Kyokyomeren with areas of strict protection;
- No. 58: a planned zone of limited environment friendly nature management with zakaznik
reserves;
- No. 59: the planned Kara-Kainsky landscape zakaznik reserve;
- No. 60: a planned complex zakaznik reserve;
- No. 61: the Donussky forest zakaznik reserve with a planned extension;
- No. 62: the planned Srednenarynsky seasonal zakaznik reserve;
- No. 63: a planned zone of limited environment friendly nature management with existing cores;
existing parts of the Karatal-Zhapyryksky zapovednik reserve with a planned zakaznik reserve;
- No. 64: a planned seasonal (April to September) ornithological zakaznik reserve;
- No. 65: a planned buffer zone of the zapovednik reserve;
- No. 66: a planned natural nature park;
- No. 67: a planned forest zakaznik reserve;
- No. 68: the Narynsky zapovednik reserve with a planned buffer zone.
The existing SPA:
- the Karatal-Zhapyryksky zapovednik reserve covering 6,000 ha;
- the Son-Kulsky tract (8,000 ha) of the Karatal-Zhapyryksky state zapovednik reserve.
2. Compilers:
Shukurov, Emil Dzhaparovich – The ALEINE Environmental Non-governmental Organization;
Balbakova, Farida N. – a SPA expert;
Bektemirov, Alymzhan Kazybayevich – head of biodiversity and SPA sector, National Forest
Service of the Kyrgyz Republic;
Chyngozhoyev, Abdymital Turgunaliyevich – regional coordinator of the EuropAid project on
biodiversity conservation in the West Tien-Shan;
Domashov, Ilya – the BIOM international environmental NGO (phone: (996312)650136,
(996312)586782);
Shikhotov, Vladislav Mefodievich – International University of Kyrgyzstan, head of bioecology
department
Asangariyev, Eldiyar – Kyrgyz Agency for environmental protection and forestry.
Kokumov, Bakyt – the Narynskoye forestry, a silviculture engineer;
Ostaschenko, A.N. - The Biological and Soil Institute of the Kyrgyzstan National Academy of
Sciences, ornithologist;
Davletbakov, Askar - The Biological and Soil Institute of the Kyrgyzstan National Academy of
Sciences, ornithologist;
Tokmergenov, Tynychbek - The Biological and Soil Institute of the Kyrgyzstan National
Academy of Sciences, theriologist;
Ionov, Rostislav Nikolayevich – The Biological and Soil Institute of the Kyrgyzstan National
Academy of Sciences, senior researcher;
Lebedeva, Lyudmila Petrovna - The Biological and Soil Institute of the Kyrgyzstan National
Academy of Sciences, senior researcher.
3. Protected zone area
Total area of existing SPA: 87,000 ha;
Total area of planned core zones: about 200,000 ha;
Total area of planned buffer zones: about 70,000 ha;
Total area of planned zones of limited nature use: 200,000 ha;
Total area of the Inner Tien Shan zone: about 1,8 million ha.
4. Altitudes above sea level
It is mainly a mountainous zone with many ridges, such as the Song-Kyol, Naryn-Too, MoldoToo, Kekerim-Too that rise up to 4100 m a.s.l., and upland plateaus at altitudes of 2000 m a.s.l.
5. Justification of econet criteria
The wetland system of Lake Son-Kyol is an important stopover site of migrating waterbirds,
such as the Demoiselle Crane, Bar-headed Goose, Black Stork, and Great Black-headed Gull.
The mountain lake is a spawning site of fishes (in particular Diptychus sewerzowi) that have a
very narrow habitat range.
Mountain systems of the Inner Tien Shan are habitats of many animal species listed in the Red
Data Book of Kyrgyzstan.
The zone comprises valuable high alpine and subalpine meadows; spruce, archa, and floodplain
forests; ephemera-ephemeroid communities.
The cultural heritage comprises medieval towns dating back to between 11th and early 13th
centuries.
6. Suggested protection status
Zone of limited environment friendly land management with strictly protected core zones;
zoning is planned during the implementation.
7. Physiographical description (topography, hydrography, climate, soils)
Most part of the focal zone is occupied by mountain ridges that alternate with deep
intermountain troughs, vast forests, and water bodies. Characteristic of the area are deep loose
sediments and flat plains dissected by a sparse network of river valleys and shallow gullies.
Valleys of the Inner Tien Shan (Kochkorskaya valley, Djumgalskaya valley, Suusamyrskaya
valley, At-Bashynskaya valley etc.) are located at altitudes of 2000 to 3000 m a.s.l. and
surrounded by high szyrt plateaus that carry mountain ridges rising up to 4500-4700 m a.s.l. The
climate is continental, with cold and long winters; absolute lows reach -50 °C. Summers are
short, cool, with mean July temperature +15 °C. Mean annual precipitation is low on the plains
(200 to 300 mm) and becomes somewhat higher in the mountains.
The largest rivers of the area are the Naryn, Bolshoi Naryn, Maly Naryn, On-Archa, Kokomeren,
and Ala-Buga. They are mainly fed by meltwater of seasonal and permanent snows, and glaciers.
Therefore, the rivers swell in summer. The area includes a large natural freshwater body – Lake
Son-Kul – located at an altitude of 3013 m a.s.l.
8. Ecological overview
Slopes of the Inner Tien Shan above 2000 m a.s.l. are occupied by conifer forests of Tien-Shan
spruce, fir trees, and archa. Above 3000 m a.s.l., elfin wood groves of archa and rhododendron
can be observed. Subalpine and alpine meadows that normally do not form a continuous belt are
located at altitudes of 2800 to 3400 m a.s.l., alternating with almost barren rocks and screes; they
are widely used as summer pastures. Typical of szyrts are elevated cold deserts that are used as
winter pastures. Nival and glacial-nival landscapes are widespread at altitudes above 3200 m
a.s.l.
9. Important and protected objects
Protected animals include the brown bear, lynx, Golden Eagle, Black Vulture, Bearded Vulture,
Saker, Gyrfalcon, Great Black-headed Gull, Lesser Kestrel, argali, relict suslik, Bar-headed
Goose, Black Stork, Demoiselle Crane, Daurian Partridge, Snowcock, Chukar, osman fishes
Diptychus maculates, D. dubowskii, and D. sewerzowi, trout Salmo trutta oxianus, and whitefish
Coregonus peled and C. coregonus.
The left-bank area of the Kokomeren River, ridges of Kavak, Akshiirak, and western Moldotoo
are inhabited by 15 species of rare plants, of which two are endemics. The Shrenk spruce, Tien
Shan spruce, archa (arboreal and elfin forms), dog rose, honeysuckle, willows, currants, and
buckthorn can be found there. Floodplain forests, subalpine and alpine meadows.
Established in the area are:
1. The Toguz-Torouzsky zoological zakaznik reserve covering 26,000 ha;
2. the Karatal-Zhapyryksky zapovednik reserve (6000 ha);
3. the Son-Kulsky tract of the Karatal- Zhapyryksky zapovednik reserve (8000 ha);
4. the Narynsky zapovednik reserve (36,900 ha);
5. the Salkyn-Tor nature park (10,500 ha).
10. Land tenure/ownership
The zone comprises 1 raions (administrative unit) of the Zhalalabat Oblast and 5 raions of the
Naryn Oblast. About 20% of lands are owned by raion akimiats (local authorities), 30% are state
reserve lands, 10% are state forest lands, 10% are specially protected areas, and the rest belongs
to the category of Lands under industries, transport, communications, defense and others.
11. Current land use
Pastures are intensively used mainly for grazing by sheep, but also by musk oxen and horses.
Lake Son-Kul is used in the economy as a fish farm for growing whitefish (Coregonus peled and
C. coregonus). For now, over 30 natural and borehole outlets of mineral and thermal waters of
variable content, temperature, and healing properties were discovered in the area.
The interior of the focal zone is rich in fossil minerals. Large coal deposits concentrate in the
Kabaksky basin of the Djumgalsky raion; there are deposits of lead, zinc, other non-ferrous and
rare earth elements, and richest salt deposits. Sited everywhere are deposits of construction
materials, such as clay, gyps, gravel, shingle, marble, and construction stone. The fossil minerals
have been intensively exploited by private and national enterprises.
12. Threatening factors
Lands of this zone have always been considered the best medium-height pastures for sheep,
goats, and horses. However, they are currently used without any system, with no rotation of
pastures, which leads to the degradation of landscapes. Medium-height slopes are intensively
used for hay harvesting. More and more lands are ploughed for growing crops. Forests are felled
uncontrolled for construction timber.
An intensive economic use of Lake Son-Kul is a dramatic disturbance factor for migrating and
wintering birds and may as well cause a depletion of fish stock. Surroundings of Lake Son-Kul
are also used for recreation, especially for mountain tourism. Hunting is popular with the local
population. Deposits of coal and other fossil minerals have been exploited in the area; gold
mines are planned to be exploited.
13. Conservation measures taken
The focal zone comprises about 7% of zapovednik reserves and 5% of zakaznik reserves.
Organized security measures are taken in state zapovednik reserves, forestries, zoological and
game zakaznik reserves.
14. Suggested conservation measures
It is suggested to establish a zone of limited sustainable nature management with a buffer zone of
the Karatal-Zhapyryksky zapovednik reserve and core zones around the existing SPA.
Suggestions are as follows:
- No. 12: to expand the existing Toguz-Toro zoological zakaznik reserve and to designate it
as a national nature park with a buffer zone;
- No. 13: to establish a zone of limited environment friendly nature management (part of
the planned buffer zone of the Western Tien Shan biosphere reserve);
- No. 39: the Kara-Kainsky complex zakaznik reserve with tracts of strict protection;
- No. 58: a zone of limited environment friendly nature management with zakaznik
reserves;
- No. 59: the Kara-Kainsky landscape seasonal zakaznik reserve;
- No. 60: a complex zakaznik reserve;
- No. 61: a zapovednik reserve;
- No. 62: a seasonal zakaznik reserve;
- No. 63: a zone of limited environment friendly nature management;
- No. 64: a seasonal ornithological zakaznik reserve (April to September);
- No. 65: a buffer zone of a zapovednik reserve;
- No. 66: a national nature park;
- No. 67: a forest zakaznik reserve;
- No. 68: to expand territory of the existing Narynsky zapovednik reserve and the SalkynTor national nature park with a buffer zone.
15. Social and economic overview
The focal zone includes about 30 settlements. The population is mainly occupied in cattle
husbandry and, to a lesser extent, in crop production. It is a promising industrial area that holds
most of the Kyrgyz coal deposits.
16. Active environmental organizations and projects
The Kyrgyz-Swiss Forestry Support Programme has been implemented since 1995 and is
aimed at provision of favorable conditions for various institutions and private persons working in
the field of Kyrgyzstan forestry; at conservation of forests and forest biodiversity; expansion of
forest cover and sustainable use of forest resources. The project donor is the Swiss Agency for
Development and Cooperation.
The LIFE Programme and GEF/SGP UNDP have financed small projects of local
conservationist communities.
A red deer (Cervus elaphus) farm was established in the Narynsky zapovednik reserve.
17. Scientific research
Sociological and ecological studies were carried out in the framework of the project ‘Public and
Business Forum’ (Fauna and Flora International).
IV. The Issyk-Kul Basin
1. Econet elements in the Issyk-Kul Basin:
- No. 43: a zone of limited nature management, with strictly protected (zapovednik) core
zones and a zone of environment friendly nature use;
- No. 44: a zapovednik reserve with a buffer zone;
- No. 45: the Chon-Aksuu national park (planned);
- No. 46: an entomological zakaznik reserve;
- No. 47: a zapovednik reserve;
- No. 48: a zapovednik reserve;
- No. 49: the Zhyrgalan paleontological zakaznik reserve;
- No. 50: an entomological zakaznik reserve;
- No. 51: a transboundary nature park with strictly protected cores (existing SPA’s);
- No. 52: the Turgen Aksuu nature park.
Existing SPA’s:
- Tracts of the Issyk-Kulsky state zapovednik reserve: Ottuk (11,500 ha), Toru-Aigyr (2400
ha), Kamenka (65 ha), Uryuktu (100 ha), Sukhoi Khrebet (200 ha), and Koi-Sary (2000
ha);
- the Teploklyuchinsky game zakaznik reserve;
- the Dzhety-Oguzsky game zakaznik reserve;
- the Karakolsky national park;
- the Tyupsky zoological zakaznik reserve (19,000 ha);
- the Ken-Suisky zoological zakaznik reserve (8,700 ha).
2. Compilers
Shukurov, Emil Dzhaparovich – The ALEINE Environmental Non-governmental Organization;
Balbakova, Farida N. – a SPA expert;
Domashov, Ilya – the BIOM international environmental NGO (phone: (996312)650136,
(996312)586782);
Asangariyev, Eldiyar – Kyrgyz Agency for environmental protection and forestry;
Alpiyev, M. – ichthyologist, the Kyrgyz Agency for environmental protection and forestry;
Toktorbayeva, Zhumabubu – head of recreation department, the Karakol state national nature
park;
Barykin, A. – chairman of the Issyk-Kul society of hunters and fishermen;
Bektemirov, Alymzhan Kazybayevich – head of biodiversity and SPA sector, National Forest
Service of the Kyrgyz Republic;
Shikhotov, Vladislav Mefodievich – International University of Kyrgyzstan, head of bioecology
department
Ostaschenko, A.N. - The Biological and Soil Institute of the Kyrgyzstan National Academy of
Sciences, ornithologist;
Davletbakov, Askar - The Biological and Soil Institute of the Kyrgyzstan National Academy of
Sciences, ornithologist;
Tokmergenov, Tynychbek - The Biological and Soil Institute of the Kyrgyzstan National
Academy of Sciences, theriologist;
Ionov, Rostislav Nikolayevich – The Biological and Soil Institute of the Kyrgyzstan National
Academy of Sciences, senior researcher;
Lebedeva, Lyudmila Petrovna - The Biological and Soil Institute of the Kyrgyzstan National
Academy of Sciences, senior researcher;
3. Protected zone area
Total area of existing SPA: 87,000 ha;
Total water surface area of Lake Issyk-Kul: 620,000 ha;
Total area of planned core zones: about 500,000 ha;
Total area of planned zones of limited nature use: 700,000 ha;
Total area of the Issyk-Kul zone: about 1,8 million ha.
4. Altitudes above sea level
It is primarily a zone of medium-high mountains. The lake basin is located at an altitude of 1608
m a.s.l. Mountain tracts rise as high as to 3000 m a.s.l.
5. Justification of econet criteria
A wetland system of Lake Issyk-Kul and its tributaries is an important stopover site of migrating
waterbirds (the Demoiselle Crane, Bar-headed Goose, Black Stork) and wintering birds (the
Coot, Anas spp., Greylag Goose), as well as about 850 mute and whooper swans.
A long history of isolation of Lake Issyk-Kul (disconnection from the Chu River) led to the
development of some new features in fish and, thus, to the formation of new fish forms
characteristic of Lake Issyk-Kul. Typical Issyk-Kul fishes are marinka (Schizotorax
intermedius), chebak (Leuciscus schmidtii), chebachok (Leuciscus bergii), gubach
(Noemacheilus strauchi), Issyk-Kul Minnow (Phoxinus issykkulensis), and gudgeon (Gobio
gobio latus).
Mountain ridges are crossed by migration routes of a small population of red deer and support
habitats of the manul cat.
Most birds of prey, such as the Saker, Ibisbill, Bearded Vulture, Cinereous Vulture, and Imperial
Eagle, breed in the piedmont steppe.
The zone includes natural occurrence ranges of the Shrenk Spruce, tragacanth deserts, valuable
entomocomplexes – relict species of pollinizer insects, and endemic mollusk species.
Paleontological findings (woolly rhinoceros, mammoth, Senonian horse) have been made in the
Issyk-Kul zone. The lake shores are rich in historical monuments of ancient times, such as
petrogliphs and remnants of old towns.
6. Suggested conservation measures
A zone of limited nature use, with strictly protected (zapovednik) cores and a zone of
environment friendly nature management.
7. Physiographical description (topography, hydrography, climate, soils)
The Issyk-Kul basin belongs to the North Tien Shan geographic province (Kyrgyzstan). It is
located at an altitude of 1608 m a.s.l. (the water surface). The lake basin extends in a west-to-east
direction for a distance of 240 km. It is 75 km across at its widest point.
Being of a tectonic origin, the lake was formed as a result of faults, downthrows, and depressions
of the earth surface; its large part sagged and was filled with water, while surrounding areas rose
to 3000 to 3500 m above the lake level and formed the Terskei-Alatau mountain ridge south and
the Kungei-Alatau north of the lake. Uplands of Chaar-Jon (2722 m) and Ala-Bel border the lake
on the east, while Kara-Koo and Kyzyl-Ompol fringe it on the west. The mountain circle is
interrupted on the west by a narrow Boomsky gorge that comprises the Chu River. The Chu does
not enter Issyk-Kul, but it is connected to the lake with a 4-km-long Kutemaldy Channel and
sometimes discharges floodwater into it.
Lake Issyk-Kul is 182 km long and 58 km across at its widest point, and averages 280 m in
depth. The maximal depth of 702 m is registered approximately in the lake’s center, closer to the
southern shore. With the surface area of 6206 km2, it is the world’s second largest lake lying at
altitudes of above 1200 m a.s.l. (after Titikaka in South America). At the same time, it is the
deepest one and having the greatest water volume.
Issyk-Kul does not have an outlet, which results in a slightly brackish water. Because its surface
temperature does not fall below +3° - +4° C, the open surface of the lake never freezes.
The Issyk-Kul basin has a flatland, piedmont, and mountain topography complexes. The lake is
fringed by a typical piedmont flatland built by river and lake sediments. Boulders, gravel,
pebbles, and debris predominate in the west of the basin, while clay and sand are more common
in the east. The flatland is bordered by steep, dissected slopes of mountain ridges, and only at the
eastern and south-western parts of the basin, a belt of foothills screens the flatland from high
watershed ridges.
As it approaches the mountains, the lakeside flatland gives way to piedmonts called adyry.
Sometimes the piedmonts protract as isolated plateaus rising to 300-1100 m (mean 700 m) above
the flatland; they are built by loose sediments and dissected by river valleys and dry gulches
(sai).
8. Ecological overview
The Issyk-Kul shore up to piedmonts (1630 to 1850 m a.s.l.) is occupied by a flatland-piedmont
desert in the west and semi-desert in the east. Heights between 1850 and 2100 m a.s.l. are
occupied by a piedmont-medium height zone. Small areas at altitudes above 2800 m a.s.l. are
covered with alpine and subalpine meadows.
9. Important and protected objects
Oxygen-rich water of Lake Issyk-Kul is inhabited by 13 fish species of the families Cyprinidae,
Cobitidae, and Salmonidae, such as the scaleless osman, common carp, grey loach, and trout.
Typical fishes of Issyk-Kul are marinka, chebak, chebachok, gubach, Issyk-Kul minnow, and
gudgeon.
Up to 50,000 various ducks (mainly red-crested pochards), coot, teal-type ducks, and greylag
geese as well as about 850 mute and whooper swans winter in the ice-free waters of the lake,
mostly in its western corner. The Demoiselle Crane, Grey Heron, Dalmatian Pelican, swans,
Pallas's Sandgrouse, White-tailed Eagle and other waterbirds stage there during migration
periods.
The fauna of the Issyk-Kul basin, especially in its mountain belt, is rich and diverse. The
western, desert part of the basin is inhabited by typical desert animals, such as the Mongolian
five-toed jerboa, tamarisk jird, Libyan jird, and Eremias spp. The eastern part of the lake basin
up to the treeline is inhabited by the relict Tien Shan suslik. Pheasants can be found in thick seabuckthorn groves at the shore. The cape hare and the Armenia hamster occur in the piedmonts.
Typical of the foothill forests are the Northern Wheatear, Common Redstart, Egyptian Vulture,
Bearded Vulture, Golden Eagle, and Goshawk. High mountain ecosystems are habitat of many
large mammals listed in the Red Data Book, such as the manul cat, Tien Shan brown bear,
Turkestan lynx, red deer, and argali. Relict species of pollinizer insects can be found there on
alpine and subalpine meadows.
Sediment rocks with fossils of the woolly rhinoceros, mammoth, and Senonian horse should also
be included in the list of protected objects.
The zone comprises the following specially protected natural areas:
- Tracts of the Issyk-Kulsky state zapovednik reserve: Ottyk (11,500 ha), Toru-Aigyr (2400
ha), Kamenka (65 ha), Uryuktu (100 ha), Sukhoi Khrebet (200 ha), and Koi-Sary (2000
ha);
- Teploklyuchinsky game zakaznik reserve;
- Dzhety-Oguzsky game zakaznik reserve;
- Karakolsky national park;
- Tyupsky zoological zakaznik reserve (19,000 ha);
- Ken-Suisky zoological zakaznik reserve (8700 ha).
10. Land tenure/ownership
The focal zone is located in the Issyk-Kul Oblast (province) and covers 6 raions (administrative
units). About 30% of zone are state reserve lands, about 15% are specially protected areas, 6%
are state forest lands, 7-10% belong to local administrations, and 20% are private property
(villages and farms) and privatized vacation hotels. State vacation hotels are owned by the state
and managed by the government, as they are especially valuable lands.
11. Current land use
Alpine and subalpine meadows are used as summer pastures, while medium- and low-altitude
savannoids are used for cattle grazing in winter.
Lake Issyk-Kul is intensively used in the economy. Annual fish catches exceed 12,000 tonnes
and include marinka, osman, trout, common carp, chebak, but 90% of the catches are chebachok.
The lake is a recreation site of international importance. The northern shore is built up with
recreation facilities.
12. Threatening factors
The main threatening factor in the Issyk-Kul zone is the great recreation pressure. Over 200
vacation hotels and other recreation facilities are located at the lake shore. Several thousand
tourists visit Issyk-Kul every year. They also visit the mountain tracts of the area and disturb
wild animals.
The economic use of the lake and introduction of several fish species led to a disbalancement of
the fish fauna. In recent years, stocks of osman, chebak, and common carp decreased noticeably
as a result of robbery fishing at shallows in spring (at spawning time) and mass felling of
mountain forests, which have altered hydrological regimes of mountain rivers. They became
shallower and some of them, for example the Targa, do not reach the lake any longer.
Signs of land degradation are clearly visible at the shore. Cattle overgrazing in the mediumaltitude zone and lack of pasture rotation resulted in the depauperization of ecosystems.
Illegal hunt and forest felling are the most common land use violations.
The Issyk-Kul zone has a dense network of roads.
13. Conservation measures taken
The Issyk-Kul zone comprises about 7% of zapovednik reserves and 5% of zakaznik reserves.
Organized protection measures have been taken in state zapovednik reserves, forestry enterprises,
zoological and game zakaznik reserves.
14. Suggested conservation measures
- No. 43: to establish a zone of limited nature use with strictly protected (zapovednik) cores and a
zone of environment friendly nature management;
- No. 44: to expand the Issyk-Kulsky zapovednik reserve;
- No. 45: to establish the Chon-Aksuu national park;
- No. 46: to establish and entomological zakaznik reserve;
- No. 47: to establish a zapovednik reserve as a tract of the Issyk-Kulsky zapovednik reserve;
- No. 48: to expand the Issyk-Kulsky zapovednik reserve;
- No. 49: to establish the Zhyrgalan paleontological zakaznik reserve;
- No. 50: an entomological zakaznik reserve;
- No. 51: a transboundary nature park with zonation;
- No. 52: the Turgen Aksuu nature park, with zonation.
15. Social and economic overview
Being the most populous econet zone, it is the best developed one and has a great potential. The
population participates in many types of activity: a traditional cattle husbandry, plant cultivation
(wheat, potatoes, legumes, vegetables, technical crops), horticulture, fishing, apiculture,
commercial hunting (muskrat). Modern tourist services have been actively developed, which is
the main occupation and a principal earner of most local families.
16. Active environmental organizations and projects
Several nature conservation projects have been carried out in the Issyk-Kul zone:
From 1997 to 2005, a project of ‘The Issyk-Kul biosphere territory’ was carried out. It was
financed by the German government and implemented by the German Association for Technical
Cooperation (GTZ).
Documentation was compiled in order to designate Lake Issyk-Kul as a World Heritage site.
The Kyrgyz-Swiss Forestry Support Programme has been implemented since 1995 and is
aimed at provision of favorable conditions for various institutions and private persons working in
the field of Kyrgyzstan forestry; at conservation of forests and forest biodiversity; expansion of
forest cover and sustainable use of forest resources. The project donor is the Swiss Agency for
Development and Cooperation.
17. Scientific research
A biological station of the Kyrgyz Academy of Sciences is located in Dolinka; the staff has been
working over improvements of fish species ratio in the lake.
Sociological and ecological studies have been carried out in the framework of the ‘Public and
Business Forum’ (Fauna and Flora International).
V. High szyrt plateaus in the Inner and Central Tien Shan
1. Econet elements in the present zone:
- No. 53: a zapovednik reserve with a buffer zone;
- No. 54: the Kaindy zapovednik reserve (planned);
- No. 55: the Koikap zapovednik reserve (planned);
- No. 56: a transboundary national park (planned);
- No. 57: a zone of limited nature use;
- No. 70: a zone of limited environment friendly nature use;
- No. 71: a seasonal zakaznik reserve (planned);
- No. 72: a zoological zakaznik reserve (planned);
- No. 73: a seasonal zakaznik reserve (planned);
- No. 74: a zapovednik reserved with planned extenstions;
- No. 75: a zone of limited environment friendly nature use;
- No. 76: a zapovednik reserve (planned);
- No. 77: a zone of limited environment friendly nature use;
- No. 78: a zapovednik reserve (planned).
The existing SPA’s are: the Chatyr-Kulsky tract of the Karatal-Khapyryksky zapovednik reserve
and the Sarychat-Ertashsky zapovednik reserve.
2. Compilers
Shukurov, Emil Dzhaparovich – The ALEINE Environmental Non-governmental Organization;
Balbakova, Farida N. – a SPA expert;
Bektemirov, Alymzhan Kazybayevich – head of biodiversity and SPA sector, National Forest
Service of the Kyrgyz Republic;
Chyngozhoyev, Abdymital Turgunaliyevich – regional coordinator of the EuropAid project on
biodiversity conservation in the West Tien-Shan;
Domashov, Ilya – the BIOM international environmental NGO (phone: (996312)650136,
(996312)586782);
Shikhotov, Vladislav Mefodievich – International University of Kyrgyzstan, head of bioecology
department
Asangariyev, Eldiyar – Kyrgyz Agency for environmental protection and forestry.
Kokumov, Bakyt – the Narynskoye forestry, a silviculture engineer;
Ostaschenko, A.N. - The Biological and Soil Institute of the Kyrgyzstan National Academy of
Sciences, ornithologist;
Davletbakov, Askar - The Biological and Soil Institute of the Kyrgyzstan National Academy of
Sciences, ornithologist;
Tokmergenov, Tynychbek - The Biological and Soil Institute of the Kyrgyzstan National
Academy of Sciences, theriologist;
Ionov, Rostislav Nikolayevich – The Biological and Soil Institute of the Kyrgyzstan National
Academy of Sciences, senior researcher;
Lebedeva, Lyudmila Petrovna - The Biological and Soil Institute of the Kyrgyzstan National
Academy of Sciences, senior researcher;
3. Protected zone area
Total area of existing SPA: 90,000 ha;
Total water surface area of Lake Chatyr-Kul: 153 km3;
Total area of planned core zones: about 400,000 ha;
Total area of planned buffer zone: 40,000 ha;
Total area of planned zones of limited nature use: 2 million ha;
Total area of the Issyk-Kul zone: about 3 million ha.
4. Altitudes above sea level
It is a mountainous area, with the country’s greatest peaks: Pik Pobedy (7439 m), Khan-Tengri
(6995 m), ten more peaks above 6000 m, and over 30 peaks above 5000 m. Typical of the zone
are high mountain valleys and szyrt plateaus (mean altitude 2800 to 3000 m a.s.l.) that have long
been ploughed by glaciers and succumbed to water and wind.
5. Justification of econet criteria
High mountain szyrt ecosystems of the Inner and Central Tien Shan are habitats of many species
of large mammals, such as the snow leopard, argali, brown bear, Siberian ibex, manul cat, stone
marten, roe deer, lynx, wild boar, and porcupine. The area is remote and hardly accessible, which
helped survive the largest populations of the snow leopard and ungulates.
The wetland system of Lake Chatyr-Kul and its tributaries is a moulting and breeding site of the
Bar-headed Goose and is an important stopover site of other migrating waterbirds.
A medium-height belt of the mountains comprises desert xerophilous biota, endemic reptiles and
insects.
Unique monuments of the medieval architecture are the Tash-Rabat caravanserai and the town of
Koshoi-Korgon dating back to the 7th and 8th centuries.
6. Suggested protection status
A zone of limited environment friendly nature use.
7. Physiographical description (topography, hydrography, climate, soils)
The western part of the Kok-Shaal-Too ridge near the Chinese border is the southern margin of
the Inner Tien Shan. The highest 70-km tract of the ridge is located between cut-through valleys
of the Kok-Shaal and Chon-Uzengikuush rivers. Characteristic of the ridge is a combination of
alpine forms (many upright walls with elevation differences of 1500 to 2000 m), extensive snow
patches and thick ice. The Aksai glaciation network (153 glaciers covering 443 km2) is one of
the greatest in the Tien Shan. The snowline is located at altitudes of 4000 to 4500 m. River
valleys lie at great absolute altitudes of 3000 to 3500 m. Paludified sites can often be seen up to
4000 m of altitude. The climate is severe, with mean monthly temperature of 5 to 8 °C (summer)
and mean monthly precipitation of 20 to 30 mm. The weather is unstable. North of the KokShaal-Too ridge, across Aksai szyrts (3900-3800 m) and the Chon-Uzengikuush valley, there is
an elaborate, deeply cut system of mountain ridges – the range of Borkoldoi (5170 m at the
highest point) that extends in a south-west to north-east direction to a distance of about 100 km
(glaciation 250 km2).
In the western part of the valley, at an altitude of 3530 m, there is a deep basin of Chatyr-Kul, the
highest-lying Kyrgyzstan’s lake and the third largest in the country. It covers an area of 153,000
km2 and ranges from 5 to 20 m in depths. Twenty four rivers enter the lake, with only one, the
Kok-Argyr, having a perennial stream.
The climate is sharply continental. Mean annual air temperature is 5-6 °C (maximal +24 °C,
minimal -50 °C). All the area of the Chatyr-Kol basin, Ak-Sai ridge, and, in the eastern part, the
Kagalyachap stow is formed as szyrt plateaus long ploughed by glaciers and subdued by water
and wind. Flat-bottomed and shallow river valleys and broad hilly hollows alternate with
flattened interfluve areas and low ridges. Permafrost, a remnant of ancient glaciation, is
widespread at altitudes above 3400 m.
The Ak-Sai River is the principal water artery of the area. It is mainly fed by glaciers of the KokShaal-Too ridge. Because the river valley is only slightly tilted, the river and its tributaries have
broad watercourses branching into numerous channels.
8. Ecological overview
Several climatic zones can be observed within the outlined area: deserts at altitudes of 12001500 m a.s.l., semideserts at 1800-2500 m a.s.l., subalpine and alpine belts at 2500-4000 m, and
permanent snows above 4000 m.
Typical are landscapes of grass-sagebrush steppe at the altitudes of 3100-3550 m, fescue-feather
grass steppe at 3500-3800 m, semideserts and cold deserts (3550-3800 m), in various
combinations.
9. Important and protected objects
Hard-to-access mountain szyrt plateaus of the Inner and Central Tien Shan are the safest local
habitats of many animals, such as the snow leopard, argali (Ovis ammon polii), Siberian ibex, red
deer, stoat, least weasel, grey marmot, red marmot, lynx, manul cat, brown bear, bearded vulture,
Griffon vulture, booted eagle, cinereous vulture, Himalayan snowcock, black grouse, chukar
partridge, golden eagle, saker, spotted nutcracker, black stork, large-eared pika, Himalayan pika,
merlin, crossbill, wolf, badger, tolai hare, Mongolian five-toed jerboa, Szczerbak’s racerunner
(Eremias strauchi kopetdaghica), and common clam. Lake Chatyr-Kul becomes a birdy spot in
summer, as bar-headed geese and ducks arrive to it. Roe deer, martens, lynxes, wild boars, and
porcupines inhabit deep river valleys. Mountain desert szyrts are habitats of many reptiles.
Existing SPA’s in the focal zone:
The Chatyr-Kulsky tract of the Karatal-Zhapyryksky zapovednik reserve;
The Sarychat-Ertashsky zapovednik reserve.
10. Land tenure/ownership
The zone includes 1 raion (administrative unit) of the Naryn Oblast (province) and 2 raions of
the Issyk-Kul Oblast.
About 30% of land fall into a category of lands under industries, transport, communications,
defense and others. These also include land under frontier stations and mining plants. 7% of land
are designated as SPA. The zone comprises many private tourist and game companies that rented
land plots from the category of state reserve lands, aiylokmotu.
11. Current land use / 12. Threatening factors
The zone is sparsely populated, but mountain tourists from all over the world actively visit it
attracted by great, hardly accessible peaks and glaciers.
The main threatening factor is legal and illegal hunt for ungulates (argali and Siberian ibex).
Using alpine meadows and nival zones as pastures for domestic cattle is a disturbance factor for
wild ungulates and undermines their fodder resources. Furthermore, a decline in ungulate
numbers affects population numbers of snow leopards.
The Kyrgyzstan’s largest Kumtor gold-mining plant of the Kyrgyz-Canadian Kumtor Operating
Company is located next to the Sarychat-Ertashsky zapovednik reserve. An accident that
happened there in 1998 through the company’s fault made the plant administration turn their
policy towards nature conservation; since then, the company has actively promoted
conservationist activities.
Movements of migrating animals across the Kokshaal-Too ridge at the national border cannot be
monitored and their numbers cannot be counted. Border guards kill wild ungulates with
impunity.
The area is crossed by a large and very busy motor-road that connects Kyrgyzstan with China.
The Torugart customs station at the Chinese border close to Lake Chatyr-Kul is a severe
disturbance factor, because of large concentrations of vehicles, people, and corresponding
infrastructure, such as cafes, hotels etc.
13. Conservation measures taken
The area comprises about 7% of zapovednik reserves and 15% of private and national game
husbandries. Organized security measures are taken in state zapovednik reserves, forestries, and
game husbandries.
14. Suggested conservation measures
- No. 70: To establish a zone of limited environment friendly nature use;
- No. 71: to establish a seasonal zakaznik reserve (April to June);
- No. 72: to establish a zoological (herpetological) zakaznik reserve;
- No. 73: to establish a seasonal zakaznik reserve for the conservation of argali and Siberian ibex
(March to April and September to October);
- No. 74: to expand the territory of the Chatyr-Kulsky tract of the Karatal-Zhapyryksky state
zapovednik reserve;
- No. 75: to establish a zone of limited environment-friendly nature use;
- No. 76: to establish a zapovednik reserve;
- No. 77: to establish a zone of limited environment-friendly nature use;
- No. 78: to establish a zapovednik reserve.
15. Social and economic overview
It is a sparsely populated area. The population is mainly involved in cattle husbandry,
particularly in musk-ox breeding.
The area holds a great number of private game and tourist facilities that offer services to foreign
hunters and mountaineers.
Some part of skilled population works at the Kumtor gold-mining plant.
16. Active environmental organizations and projects
An accident that happened through the Kumtor company’s fault in 1998 made the plant
administration turn their policy towards the conservation of local environment; since then, the
company has actively promoted conservationist activities. In particular it supports projects like
the ‘Public and Business Forum’.
Other active organizations are the Nabu Public Foundation and the Safari International Club.
17. Scientific research
The only research implemented is the sociological and ecological studies in the framework of the
‘Public and Business Forum’ (Fauna and Flora International). No other modern investigations
were carried out in the area.
Governmental institutions and private game husbandries carry out annual censuses of ungulates
and animals listed in the Red Data Book at north-eastern borders of Kyrgyzstan. These studies
are mostly pro forma.
VI. The Ferghana Ridge
1. Econet elements in the Ferghana Ridge area:
- No. 13: A zone of limited environment-friendly nature use;
- No. 14: A zone of limited environment-friendly nature use;
- No. 15: A core zone.
Existing SPA’s are as follows:
A tract of the Kulun-Atinsky state zapovednik reserve (18,000 ha);
The Kara-Shoro national nature park (8000 ha);
A tract of the Kulun-Ata state zapovednik reserve (8000 ha);
The Saimaluu-Tash national nature park (32,000 ha).
2. Compilers:
Shukurov, Emil Dzhaparovich – The ALEINE Environmental Non-governmental Organization;
Balbakova, Farida N. – a SPA expert;
Domashov, Ilya – the BIOM international environmental NGO (phone: (996312)650136,
(996312)586782);
Asangariyev, Eldiyar – Kyrgyz Agency for environmental protection and forestry.
Kokumov, Bakyt – the Narynskoye forestry, a silviculture engineer;
3. Protected zone area
Total area of existing SPA: 66,000 ha;
Total area of planned core zones: about 60,000 ha;
Total area of planned zones of limited nature use: 450,000 ha;
Total area of the Ferghana Ridge zone: about 600,000 ha.
4. Altitudes above sea level
The area belongs to the West Tien Shan mountain system and comprises the Ferghana Ridge that
divides the Ferghana Valley from the Inner Tien Shan. Its length is 225 km and heights are 15004692 m above sea level.
5. Justification of econet criteria
A unique natural object of the South-West Tien Shan – a belt of nut-bearing forests – has its
southern distribution border at south-western slopes of the Ferghana Ridge at altitudes of 1500 to
2000 m a.s.l. Highland tracts of the zone are habitats of many Red-Data-Book species of animal
and plant.
A unique historical monument – a gallery of petroglyphic drawings with tens of thousands of
many-figure compositions dating back to 2000 to 1000 years B.C. – is located at southern slopes
of the Ferghana Ridge at an altitude of 3200 m.
6. Suggested protection status
A zone of limited environment-friendly nature use.
7. Physiographical description (topography, hydrography, climate, soils)
The Ferghana Ridge 225 km long and 4692 m high at its highest point is a part of the Tien Shan
mountains. It separates the Ferghana basin from the Inner Tien Shan, which it margins on the
south-west. The south-western slope is long and gentle, while the north-eastern one is short and
steep. The ridge is built with slates, sandstone, limestone, and other sediment-metamorphous
rocks. The modern glaciation covers approximately 125 km2 and consists of over 150 glaciers,
mainly located in the south-eastern part of the area. The south-western slope is overgrown with
walnut forests in the lower reaches; dark coniferous and archa forests above them, and subalpine
and alpine meadows in the upper reaches.
The climate is humid. Western aerial currents dominate at the heights of over 3000 m. They are
very important, as they carry much moisture that falls mainly at the western and north-western
slopes of the mountains that face the aerial currents.
8. Ecological overview
Medium-altitude savannoids are a dominant ecosystem in the Ferghana Ridge zone. They are
used as pastures.
9. Important and protected objects
The area is known for its unique nut-bearing and mixed forest complexes and archa forests that
support habitats of many species of animal and plant, such as the snow leopard, argali, Siberian
ibex, brown bear, lynx, large-eared pika, stoat, least weasel, badger, wild boar, bearded vulture,
Himalayan griffon vulture, Himalayan snowcock, saker, golden eagle, and red marmot.
10. Land tenure/ownership
The area includes 2 raions (administrative units) of the Osh Oblast (province), 1 raion of the
Zhalalabat Oblast (partially), and 2 raions of the Naryn Oblast (partially). The south-western
slopes of the Ferghana Ridge fall into the category of state forest lands (about 10%) and lands of
local administrations used as grazing grounds.
11. Nature use / 12. Threatening factors
Despite the importance of these forests, nearly half of their area is used in the economy: for hay
harvesting, fruit collecting, and chaotic pasturage with an excessive grazing pressure. The severe
human pressure threatens the very existence of these ecosystems.
Many historical monuments, Moslem sanctuaries, and mineral springs attract numerous tourists
and believers, but create a disturbance factor for natural ecosystems.
There is an industrial zone - the Makmal gold mine - at the northern spur of the Ferghana Ridge.
Argali numbers have been decreasing through uncontrolled hunting.
13. Conservation measures taken
The area includes about 17% of zapovednik reserves and national parks. Organized security
measures are taken in state zapovednik reserves, national parks, and forestry enterprises. The
Bel-Ulinsky forest zakaznik reserve covering 348 ha is protected by rangers of the Alaisky
forestry enterprise.
14. Suggested conservation measures
- No. 13: to establish a zone of limited environment-friendly nature use;
- No. 14: to establish a zone of limited environment-friendly nature use with 2 existing SPA’s: a
tract of the Kulun-Atinsky zapovednik reserve and the Saimaluu-Tash national nature park.
- No. 15: to expand territories of existing SPA’s (a tract of the Kulun-Ata state zapovednik
reserve and the Kara-Shoro national nature park) and to make them the core zone of the
Ferghana tract.
15. Social and economic overview
The area is located in an immediate vicinity of the most populous Ferghana Valley with its
alarming social features: a great population density, high unemployment rates, and shortage of
land. Most inhabitants of the Fegana Ridge area belong to the rural population working in cattle
breeding and crop cultivation. Main sources of their income are collecting and selling fruit, and
growing domestic animals.
16. Active environmental organizations and projects
The Kyrgyz-Swiss Forestry Support Programme has been implemented since 1995 and is
aimed at provision of favorable conditions for various institutions and private persons working in
the field of Kyrgyzstan forestry; at conservation of forests and forest biodiversity; expansion of
forest cover and sustainable use of forest resources. The project donor is the Swiss Agency for
Development and Cooperation.
The GEF/World Bank Central Asian Transboundary Project on the biodiversity
conservation in the Western Tien Shan has been running from 2000 to 2006. Its primary goal
is to establish a network of specially protected natural areas of various level, to establish an
integrated network of the Great Ecosystem of the Western Tien Shan that will provide
conservation of 80% of the regional biodiversity; to carry out an ecological and economic
demarcation, with establishing nature management zones beyond the protected areas, where
regimes of limited economic activities compatible with the purpose of biodiversity conservation
can be applied.
The Kulun-Ata state zapovednik reserve was established in the framework of the WWF ‘Gifts
to Earth’ project.
Since 2001, the EuropAid (TACIS) project ‘Biodiversity Conservation at the Western Tien
Shan’ rendered assistance to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan in conservation of
biodiversity and landscapes, in the establishment of a transboundary park, and in social and
economic development of local communities situated in the buffer zones of protected natural
areas. The general goal is to decrease dependence on natural resources and to mitigate threats to
biodiversity by means of social and economic development and a more effective selfadministration in the borders of the (planned) Western Tien Shan Transboundary Nature Park
and in adjacent areas.
Since 2004, a Kyrgyz-Norwegian programme of ‘Sector Forest and Environment’ has been
implemented with the support of the Norway’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It focuses to
monitoring forest ecosystems in Kyrgyzstan.
17. Scientific research
Among modern complex investigations (flora, fauna, land use, socio-economic studies), one
should mention regional expeditions along main ridges of the Western Tien Shan (2001-2004).
(The Kyrgyz portion of the Western Tien Shan: V.M. Shikhotov, B.K. Kumushaliyev, T.Z.
Tokmergenov, V.O. Peshkova, G.A. Laz’kov, A.I. Kurmankulov et al.) and works of E.Dj.
Shukurov.
5. Bekmyrzayev, E.A., Abdisatarov K., Moidunov S. Report on research into argali migrations
and the species conservation in the southern WTS (Ferghana Ridge, the upper Terek River,
Karakuldjinsky raion). Scientific advisor E.Shukurov, national manager U. Mambetaliyev.
GEF/WB Central Asian transboundary project on biodiversity conservation in the Western Tien
Shan. Bishkek, 2005 (in Russian).
6. Project: Establishment and development of the Kulunatinsky state zapovednik reserve. State
forestry department. Central Asian transboundary GEF/WB project on biodiversity conservation
in the Western Tien Shan. Forestry and Game Department. Project author and head of research
groups - Yrsaliyev, B.; head of the fauna census group - Bakyrchakov, B. Bishkek 2005 (in
Russian).
7. Golovkova, A.G. Vegetation of Kirgizia. Frunze: Ilim 1990. 455 p.p. (in Russian)
8. Ionov, R.N., Lebedeva L.P., Sultanova, B.A. Rare unique and endangered vegetation
associations of the Tien Shan and Alai in Kyrgyzstan. Proceedings of the Kyrgyzstan National
Academy of Sciences. Ilim. 1-2. 2001. P.p. 48-50 (in Russian).
9. Lebedeva, L.P. The barley, bluegrass and forb-poaceous formation of the mountain East
Ferghana. Frunze. 1963. 140 p.p. (in Russian)
10. Pavlov, V.N. Vegetation cover of the Western Tien Shan. Moscow. MGU Publisher. 1980.
246 p.p. (in Russian)
VII. The Alai
1. Econet elements in the Alai area:
- No. 16: a zakaznik reserve;
- No. 17: a zakaznik reserve with strictly protected tracts;
- No. 19: a national park with strictly protected core zones and a zone of environment-friendly
nature use;
- No. 20: a national park with strictly protected (zapovednik) core zones and a zone of
environment-friendly nature use;
- No. 21: a zakaznik reserve;
- No. 22: a strictly protected (zapovednik) core zone;
- No. 23: a botanical zakaznik reserve.
The existing SPA:
The Kyrgyz Ata national nature park (11,000 ha);
The Ak-Burinsky zoological zakaznik reserve (13,500 ha).
2. Compilers:
Shukurov, Emil Dzhaparovich – The ALEINE Environmental Non-governmental Organization;
Balbakova, Farida N. – a SPA expert;
Ionov, Rostislav Nikolayevich – The Biological and Soil Institute of the Kyrgyzstan National
Academy of Sciences, senior researcher;
Lebedeva, Lyudmila Petrovna - The Biological and Soil Institute of the Kyrgyzstan National
Academy of Sciences, senior researcher;
Zhumashev, Kasymaly Zhumashevich – Kyrgyz National University, head of tourism
department.
3. Protected zone area
Total area of existing SPA’s is 23,500 ha;
Total area of planned core zones is about 1 million ha;
Total area of planned buffer zones is about 2 million ha;
Total area of the planned zone of limited nature use is 1500 ha;
Total zone area is approximately 1.8 million ha.
4. Altitudes above sea level
The Alai is mainly a mountainous area, with hundreds of peaks rising to 5000-5500 m a.s.l. and
medium-height tracts of about 2500 m a.s.l.
5. Justification of econet criteria
The area is overgrown with mixed forests of the Shrenk spruce and birches. A Red List species
of Iskandera alaica can be found there. One should give attention to the Western Pamir
vegetation communities; mountain moss bogs; low-height desert and dry-steppe vegetation
associations; and unique archa forests that need protection. Important species include the
Capricorn beetle (Prionus (Pogonartron) tschitscherini), Schneider's Skink (Eumeces
schneideri), sand boas, and Diadem Snake (Spalerosophis diadema). Animals listed in the Red
Data Book are: the stoat, least weasel, vultures, red marmot, Snow Pigeon (Columba leuconota),
and the argali. Otters and the Amu-Darya trout (Salmo trutta oxianus) inhabit the river
catchments of the Kyzyl-Suu and Kok-Suu.
Also important are unique cretaceous hills. Historical monuments are represented with Moslem
sacred sites.
6. Suggested protection status
A national park with strictly protected zapovednik cores and a zone of limited environment
friendly land use.
7. Physiographical description (topography, hydrography, climate, soils)
The Alai zone is fringed by the Alaisky and Zaalaisky ridges. The Alaisky ridge of the PamiroAlai mountains is nearly 200 km across and rises to the maximal height of 5539 m. It borders the
Ferghana Valley on the south. The ridge is built with sandshale sediments and crystalline schist.
Its northern slopes are gentle, with some lateral valleys. Southern slopes steeply descend to the
Alai valley. Snow patches and glaciers can be observed along the crest, particularly in the west.
Total area of glaciation is 568 km2. The snowline almost never descends below 3000 m.
Summers are moderately warm in the Alai piedmonts, with mean air temperature + 20° C (July).
It becomes cool at altitudes above 1500 m. Between 2000 and 3000 m a.s.l., the mean air
temperature of July is + 15° C. In the snow and ice zone above 4000 m, air temperatures never
exceed + 10° C. It can be as cold as – 30° C in winter.
The Zaalaisky ridge at the upper Zeravshan and the Sokh River, that connects the Turkestansky,
Gissarsky, and Alaisky ridges, borders the latter. Its western portion is relatively low and does
not rise above the snowline. The Alai mountain valley that is famous for its pastures all over
Central Asia is located on its northwest, within the Pamiro-Alai mountains. It extends to 150 km
in a west-to-east direction between the Alaisky and Zaalaisky ridges. It is 8 to 25 km wide and
covers an area of about 1700 km2. Its height varies from 2240 m in the west to 3536 m in the
east. It holds the Kyzyl-Suu River and its tributaries.
8. Ecological overview
Semi-desert vegetation of piedmonts gives way to dry feathergrass-fescue steppe, meadow
steppe, archa forests (at heights of 2000-3200 m), and upper alpine meadows that are used as
mountain pastures.
9. Important and protected objects
Fauna: the argali, Siberian ibex, bear, stone marten, roe deer, lynx, wolf, red marmot, stoat, least
weasel, badger, otter, porcupine, tolai hare, relict suslik, Mongolian five-toed jerboa, golden
eagle, Himalayan griffon vulture, bearded vulture, peregrine falcon, lesser kestrel, snow pigeon,
bearded partridge, black-bellied sandgrouse, harriers, stone thrush, chukar, snowcock,
racerunners, Orsini’s viper, and Amudarya trout.
Flora: Shrenk spruce, semi-globous and trailing archa, birches, willows, Iskandera alaica, dog
roses, hawthorn, sea-buckthorn, and Knorring’s Delphinium.
Associations: spruce and archa forests, floodplain poplar and willow forests, tracts of lowaltitude desert and dry-steppe vegetation.
A historical monument and a sacred site of Altyn-Mazar is situated here.
Existing SPA’s:
The Kyrgyz-Ata national nature park (11,000 ha);
the Ak-Burinsky zoological zakaznik reserve (13,500 ha).
10. Land tenure/ownership
The focal zone comprises 4 raions (administrative units) of the Osh Oblast (province) and,
partly, one raion of the Batkent Oblast. 20% of land are agricultural lands, 7% are under SPA’s,
10% are state forest lands, and the rest is state reserve lands and transport/defense lands.
11. Current land use / 12. Threatening factors
The Alai zone is rich in mountain pastures. The local population uses them very inefficiently,
which has led to an impoverishment of the vegetation composition of alpine and subalpine
meadows.
Archa and other forests have shrunk everywhere as a result of uncontrolled felling for
construction purposes and for fuel.
On the east of the focal zone, an important motorway connects it to the Chinese border, which is
a serious disturbance factor. A railroad is planned to be built there in the future.
An uncontrolled hunt for ungulates has taken place mainly at frontier stations.
13. Conservation measures taken
The Kyrgyz-Ata national nature park (11,000 ha) and the Ak-Burinsky zoological zakaznik
reserve are protected by the SPA staff and rangers of the Alaisky forestry.
The Bel-Ulinsky forest zakaznik reserve covering an area of 348 ha is protected by rangers of the
Alaisky forestry.
14. Suggested conservation measures
It is suggested that a national park be established with strictly protected core zones (zapovednik
reserves) and a zone of limited environment friendly nature use:
- No. 16: to expand the area of the existing forest zakaznik reserve;
- No. 17: to establish a zakaznik reserve with 30% of its area being strictly protected;
- No. 19: to expand the existing Kyrgyz-Ata national park;
- No. 20: to establish a national park with zoning and 10% of the area being strictly protected
(zapovednik);
- No. 21: to establish a zakaznik reserve;
- No. 22: to establish a core zone comprising 10% of the planned national park area;
- No. 23: to establish a zakaznik reserve with 20% of its area being strictly protected.
15. Social and economic overview
The zone comprises about 30 villages. Population density is relatively high. An unemployment
and shortage of land are responsible for an intensive emigration of the working population. Main
occupations here are cattle husbandry and crop production.
16. Active environmental organizations and projects
Since 2004, a Kyrgyz-Norwegian programme of ‘Sector Forest and Environment’ has been
implemented with the support of the Norway’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It focuses to
monitoring forest ecosystems in Kyrgyzstan.
The Kyrgyz-Swiss Forestry Support Programme has been implemented since 1995 and is
aimed at provision of favorable conditions for various institutions and private persons working in
the field of Kyrgyzstan forestry; at conservation of forests and forest biodiversity; expansion of
forest cover and sustainable use of forest resources. The project donor is the Swiss Agency for
Development and Cooperation.
A GEF project on biodiversity conservation in the Pamiro-Alai is planned to be launched.
17. Scientific research
Not any complex studies have been carried out in the area within the latest decade. Earlier
publications are available.
VIII. The Turkestan Ridge
1. Econet elements in the area:
- No. 28: a planned micro-zapovednik reserve;
- No. 29: a planned zapovednik reserve and paleontological museum;
- No. 30: a planned strictly protected (zapovednik) zone with zoning;
- No. 31: planned micro-zakaznik reserves and a zone of environment friendly nature
management;
- No. 32: a planned strictly protected (zapovednik) zone with zoning.
There are not any existing SPA’s in the area.
2. Compilers:
Shukurov, Emil Dzhaparovich – The ALEINE Environmental Non-governmental Organization;
Ostaschenko, A.N. - The Biological and Soil Institute of the Kyrgyzstan National Academy of
Sciences, ornithologist;
Balbakova, Farida N. – a SPA expert.
3. Protected zone area
The planned SPA’s cover approximately 400,000 ha;
The planned zone of environment friendly nature management covers about 250,000 ha;
The total area of the Turkestan Ridge zone is about 900,000 ha.
4. Altitudes above sea level
It is primarily a mountainous area along the Turkestan Ridge, with heights from 900 m to 5580
m a.s.l.
5. Justification of econet criteria
The zone includes preserved distribution ranges of the goitered gazelle, desert monitor, white
stork, great bustard, peregrine falcon, and Pallas’s sandgrouse.
Other features include: a complex of desert and semi-desert landscapes at foothills of the
Turkestan Ridge; archa forests; a unique complex of the desert biota; fossil locations. It is the
main distribution range of the Severtzov’s sheep, otter, snow pigeon, and raptors listed in the
Red Data Book.
6. Suggested protection status
A zone of environment friendly nature management with planned strictly protected (zapovednik)
zones.
7. Physiographical description (topography, hydrography, climate, soils)
High piedmonts of the Turkestan Ridge are composed by individual mountain spurs of a coarse
topography. The ridge is formed by a number of latitudinal ridges and chains gently sloping
towards the north, the Ferghana valley, and the west. Glaciers and snow patches are not
uncommon. The snowline is located at altitudes of 4000 to 4500 m a.s.l. On the east, the
Turkestan Ridge is continued by the Alaisky Ridge.
Generally, the climate is dry continental, with some features of the continental Mediterranean
type. Summers are moderately warm and dry, winters are mild. At altitudes below 2500 m a.s.l.,
mean long-term air temperature of January vary from -3.3° C to -6.9° C; that of July is 25.3° C to
15° C. At the Temingen station located at an altitude of 3000 m above sea level, mean
temperature of January is -8.9° C (absolute minimum -30° C), and that of July is 10° C (absolute
maximum 38.7° C). All rivers in the zone are left-side tributaries of the Syr-Darya, but actually
do not reach it. Their nourishment is mainly glacier-derived and snowmelt water.
8. Ecological overview
Piedmont plains, intramontane basins, and floodplain terraces of river valleys in the piedmont,
low-height, and medium-height zones are mostly used for irrigated and bogara crop production;
some of them are used as pastures. Settlements, industrial centers, and irrigation systems are
situated there. Some medium-height and mountain steppe and meadows are used as year-round
pastures, but most are grazed in summer or in winter only.
9. Important and protected objects
The focal zone comprises a complex of desert and semi-desert piedmont landscapes. Local
reptiles include the mountain agama, rock gecko, Snake-eyed Skink, common scheltopusik,
mountain racer, Dione ratsnake, and desert monitor. Bird fauna is abundant, with a breeding
presence of the Wood Pigeon (the most numerous species), Rufous Turtle Dove, Lesser Grey
Shrike, Long-tailed Shrike, and Green Finch. Most birds breed and forage in archa forests, such
as the White-winged Woodpecker, Golden Oriole, Rufous-naped Tit, Bar-tailed Treecreeper,
Spotted Flycatcher, Blue-capped Redstart, Red-fronted Serin, White-winged Grosbeak, and rarer
species: the Tawny Owl, Scops Owl, Eagle Owl, Hobby, Sparrowhawk etc. Common in scrubs
are the Spotted Flycatcher, warblers, shrikes, buntings, Cuckoo, Mistle Thrush, Grey-headed
Goldfinch etc.
Dominating birds in the steppe are the Skylark, Bimaculated Lark, Crested Lark, Hume’s Shorttoed Lark (Calandrella acutirostris), Corn Bunting, and Red-headed Bunting. Not uncommon
are the Chukar and Bearded Partridge. The Wood Pigeon, Jackdaw, Red-billed Chough, Hoopoe,
Common Quail, Common Kestrel, Lesser Kestrel, Pallid Harrier, Eurasian Hobby, Roller, beeeaters, Golden Eagle, Sparrowhawk etc. visit the area to forage. The Bearded Vulture and the
Griffon Vulture nest there on rocks.
Rodents are the most numerous mammalian group. Carnivorous animals, such as the wolf, red
fox, stoat, and stone marten, can be found virtually in all altitudinal belts. Additionally, the least
weasel and badger are common in the steppe; brown bear (U. arctos leuconix) an lynx occur in
the archa forests; the Severtzov’s sheep and, rarely, the snow leopard can be observed in the
subalpine belt.
There are numerous historical and cultural objects in the area, such as remains of ancient
settlements dating back to 1-6 centuries A.D., towns of 9-16 centuries A.D. (Bulak-Bashy, IsFana, Kara-Bulak), remains of a Kokand fortress, and a mosque in the village of Kairagach,
which is an architectural monument. An ancient settlement of diggers is located south of the
village of Rabat. An old mine – the Kan-i-Gut cave, which means ‘The Mine of Death’ – is
located off the village of Samar-Kandyk.
10. Land tenure/ownership
The Turkestan Ridge zone comprises two raions (administrative units) of the Batkent Oblast
(province). In piedmonts, 30% of land are owned by local administrations and used as pastures;
10% belong to state reserve lands; and the rest is state reserve lands, lands under industries,
transport, communications, defense and other categories.
11. Current land use / 12. Threatening factors
Because of land shortage, piedmonts of the Turkestan Ridge have been intensively developed.
Use of alpine and subalpine meadows as pastures has led to an obvious degradation of the
vegetation cover. Low life standards make people victimize archa forests for fuel and practice
illegal hunt.
13. Conservation measures taken
The zone has no protection status.
14. Suggested conservation measures
Suggestions are as follows:
- No. 28: to establish a micro-zapovednik reserve;
- No. 29: to establish a zapovednik reserve;
- No. 30: to establish a zapovednik reserve;
- No. 31: to establish a zone of limited environment friendly nature management;
- No. 32: to establish a zapovednik reserve.
15. Social and economic overview
The Turkestan Ridge zone comprises least economically developed administrative units. It has
coarse mountain topography; less favorable and dry soil and climatic conditions; and a frontier
situation, which makes it a remote and politically unstable area. It is mainly a rural region. As a
result of migration flows, the population numbers have diminished considerably. Main
occupations there are free-range animal husbandry, growing tobacco and fruit, and carpet
weaving.
16. Active environmental organizations and projects
There are not any conservationist projects in the zone.
17. Scientific research
No recent research has been carried out.