Disturbing news has emerged from Kazakhstani ecologists regarding the ongoing fire. Despite strenuous efforts to quell the flames, experts have already delivered disheartening assessments regarding the environmental impact, Daryo correspondent reports from Kazakhstan.
The relic pine forest in Semey, Kazakhstan, is experiencing devastating fires. This forest is one of only five of its kind worldwide, making the damage to the ecosystem even more significant. Ecologist Aizhan Skakova has noted the enormous negative impact on nature.
'We should remember that the natural reserve is home to a diverse range of plants and animals, some of which are listed in the red book. Restoring this unique ecosystem will require significant investment and a great deal of time and patience. It is estimated that the restoration process will take at least 70 years'
, Aizhan Skakova told Daryo correspondent.
Aizhan Skakova stressed that once the fire has been put out, it is essential to implement specific procedures to restore the soil.
'It is possible to plant new trees after a while, but the forest will never be the same as before. The burned trees had grown and formed over several hundred years, and the new seedlings will need proper maintenance to mature. There are compensatory measures for planting trees, but the current climatic conditions make it difficult to grow fully-fledged trees. The world faces global warming, the greenhouse effect, and rising temperatures, making forestry challenging. However, there are territories in Kazakhstan where it is possible to plant new green areas. Therefore, it is crucial to focus on planting new green areas in the near future',
she added.
Fires are causing destruction in the Abay region, having already consumed more than 60,000 hectares of forest.
Credits: Talgat Satybaldy, Astana
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