Creating preconditions for protection and reproduction of Sevan trout (Salmo ischchan Kessler) through environmental awareness building in a number of communities of Lake Sevan watershed and establishment of a fishery in Geghhovit community

Project Details & Results

Within the frame of the project it is anticipated to establish a fish-breeding complex in Geghhovit community of Gegharkunik region. The project will create an opportunity to implement protection and reproduction of Salmo ischchan Kessler in Lake Sevan, registered in the Red Data book of Armenia and former Soviet Union as well as to be registered in IUCN Red List. The project envisages free discharge of 5-10 thousand young fishes into surrounding natural environment (Lake Sevan and rivers tributary to the lake). Besides, within the project activities it is anticipated to invite respective specialists with corresponding practical work experience from scientific, research or governing agencies, and to organize 5 trainings in Geghhovit, Lernakert, Madina, inner Getashen, upper Getashen communities on biodiversity conservation, Protected Areas, as well as on the safe use of agrochemicals.
One (1) amateur fishing pond will be established which will promote the developing of ecotourism in the area. Besides, 30 farms will be provided alternative irrigation water discharged from fishing ponds.

Expected results at the end of the project are the following:

1. Increase of maternal staff of Summer Salmo ischchan Kessler and Gegharquni registered in the Red Data Book of Armenia and former Soviet Union and free discharge of 5000-10000 young fish into water every year at least for 5 years,
2. Provision of about 30 l/s additional irrigation water discharged from the fish nursery to at least 30 households,
3. Training for at least 150 members of 5 communities on biodiversity and biodiversity-friendly livelihood practices in and around Lake Sevan National Park,
4. Ecotourism development through creation of opportunities for amateur fishing, which will provide community members with opportunity to receive alternative incomes,
5. Creation of new permanent jobs at the fish nursery.