European Diploma Experts Conduct Working Visit to Lagodekhi Protected Areas.
Experts of the Council of Europe’s European Diploma for Protected Areas conducted a working and field visit to Lagodekhi Protected Areas. As part of the procedure for awarding the European Diploma, the experts assessed the natural, ecological and conservation values of Lagodekhi Protected Areas, as well as the area’s management practices.
During the field visit, the experts explored various landscapes and ecosystems of Lagodekhi Protected Areas and familiarised themselves with the area’s biodiversity, rare and endemic species, habitat diversity and ecological significance. They also assessed biodiversity conservation and monitoring practices, protected area management mechanisms, visitor infrastructure and opportunities for sustainable tourism development.
As part of the visit, meetings were held with representatives of local authorities and the tourism sector. The discussions focused on cooperation between the protected area and local communities, local community engagement, ecotourism development, existing challenges and future opportunities.
The Council of Europe’s European Diploma for Protected Areas recognises protected areas of outstanding natural heritage and their high standards of conservation and management. Awarding the Diploma to Lagodekhi Protected Areas would contribute to increasing the area’s international visibility, strengthening conservation and management practices, enhancing international cooperation and knowledge exchange, and promoting sustainable tourism.
Established in 1912, Lagodekhi Protected Areas represent one of the important natural ecosystems in the Caucasus. The area is also an important component of the Emerald Network and a site of international conservation significance.
Georgia already has experience in managing a protected area holding the Council of Europe’s European Diploma: Vashlovani Protected Areas were awarded the European Diploma in 2015.
The final decision on awarding the European Diploma to Lagodekhi Protected Areas will be made by the Council of Europe following the completion of the relevant assessment and procedures.