Last week, our team at FPWC came together with our skilled rangers and GIS specialists to update the zoning of the Caucasus Wildlife Refuge (CWR). Why? Because the refuge has expanded and it is time to plan for its future!

Since 2010, FPWC has partnered with World Land Trust (WLT), whose support has been vital in protecting the CWR — the first privately protected area in the South Caucasus. Today, the refuge spans approximately 35,000 hectares of vital habitat where species from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East come together.

Our rangers, many from local communities, work tirelessly to patrol the refuge’s mountainous terrain every day. They protect endangered species, prevent illegal hunting, and respond quickly to wildfires.

With the continuous support of WLT, FPWC has been implementing a major reforestation project, in the framework of which 700,000 native trees will be planted by 2027. This effort is aimed at restoring Armenia’s landscapes and sustaining its fragile and vulnerable ecosystems and biodiversity.

As the CWR turns 15 this year, we are proud of how far we have come. We are more inspired than ever to protect this special place for generations to come!