Illegal cutting down of endangered trees has occurred in the Bayanaul district of the Pavlodar region, media reports. The area is home to various rare and unique plant species, including ferns that have been around since the time of dinosaurs and black alder, which are found only in Canada.
Black alder has been present in this region for a long time and is protected by the state as it is listed in the Red Book of Kazakhstan. The Bayanaul district has only 500 hectares of land occupied by an alder grove, making this resource-scarce.
Recently, Dinara Kunshuakova, the head of the Bayanaul National Park monitoring department, noticed that silkworms were eating black alder leaves. These worms have been spreading in the area in recent years, and chemical preparations are not allowed in a protected natural area. Instead, biological measures, such as installing birdhouses and breeding anthills, are being taken. In addition, the Bayanaul region is home to five plant species listed in the Red Book, and it is strictly prohibited to pick them.
On July 27, 2022, a report was received regarding the illegal cutting and damage of black alder, willow, and birch trees within the Bayanaul National Park.
The Department of Protection of the Natural Complex, under the leadership of Nursha Bolatbek, discovered that two black alder trees were cut down and six were damaged, alongside ten willow trees and two birch trees. As a result, the Bayanaul district police department has initiated criminal proceedings for offenses under Article 340 of the Criminal Code. Currently, a pre-trial investigation is being carried out.
Dinara Kunshuakova, the Head of the Monitoring Department of the Bayanaul National Park, recently urged people to protect and cherish nature. She specifically mentioned the importance of preserving the alder species only found in Canada and Kazakhstan. 'While a similar species can be found in Russia, it is not the same, and therefore people must take steps to safeguard this unique type of alder,' she said.
The Alder Grove is a breathtaking location nestled beside a picturesque mountain stream that has undergone considerable scientific scrutiny. Despite numerous investigations, further scientific research is required to comprehend its ecosystem fully. Experts within the National Park have suggested engaging specialists to conduct this research.
Yerkulan Duysekeev, Head of the Department of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of Kazakhstan, has announced that 'the area is currently undergoing tree planting, medical and preventive measures, and firefighting efforts. Nevertheless, the ecological state of the Bayanaul Lake system, which has significant potential for fish resources, remains a subject of many unanswered questions. Therefore, it is essential that this area is meticulously studied and scientific work is undertaken to conserve its natural resources'.
The Jasybay resort has witnessed increased tourist traffic in recent years. Besides, there are no longer any unspoiled areas in the mountains, and even the picturesque lake has fallen prey to critical loads, losing its unique natural appearance. Conservationists express deep concern regarding the situation and urge visitors to be mindful of preserving the pristine nature of Bayanaul.
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