WNAM MONITORING: A new protected area will be established across the Greater and Lesser Balhan mountain ranges in Turkmenistan, as part of an initiative aimed at preserving the region’s biodiversity and unique natural landscapes.
The main portion of the reserve will be located in the Greater Balhan Mountains, while designated wildlife sanctuaries will be created in the Lesser Balhans and the southern Ustyurt Plateau, according to state media reports released on Tuesday. At the same time, foothill pastures will remain accessible for local herders, allowing traditional livestock grazing practices to continue without harming the environment.
The Balhan Mountains are home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including dozens of reptile species and hundreds of bird and mammal species. Rare animals such as the Turkmen caracal, Pallas’s cat (manul), and the marbled polecat (perevyazka) are among the region’s notable inhabitants.
Environmental experts say the creation of the reserve represents a crucial step toward restoring wildlife populations and protecting the region’s fragile ecosystems.
The project is being implemented under Turkmenistan’s National Forest Program for 2021–2025, which also includes plans to establish additional protected areas in the Dashoguz and Lebap provinces.
