From July 19 to 21, scientists from the Institute of Natural Sciences, Physical Education, Tourism and Agricultural Technologies of Osh State University conducted a research expedition to the Kulun-Ata State Nature Reserve.
Geographers and biologists studied the condition of the reserve’s ecosystems, biodiversity and environmental changes, and developed recommendations for nature conservation and sustainable ecotourism.
On the final day of the expedition, a major flood temporarily blocked the river channel, resulting in the formation of a new lake in the Mazar section of the reserve. Scientists consider this a valuable natural phenomenon for studying landscape changes and their impact on the region’s ecosystems.
The researchers emphasized that any development of tourism in the reserve must prioritize environmental protection and visitor safety.
The Kulun-Ata State Nature Reserve, located in Kara-Kulja District, was established in 2004 to protect the unique natural complexes of the western Tien Shan, including juniper and coniferous forests, flora and fauna, and mountain lake ecosystems. The reserve is home to 32 animal species and 808 plant species.