Ararat Plain
Shaping future restoration of Armenia’s brackish wetlands.
This planning grant conduct a comprehensive study to guide the restoration of degraded wetlands on the Ararat Plain. Once covering vast areas, these wetlands now persist in only 2,000 ha following extensive drainage for agriculture during the Soviet era. The project will build on a successful pilot restoration intervention, working with local communities and government ministries to design a restoration plan that addresses ecological, legal, and financial priorities.
Ararat Plain, Armenia
BirdLinks Armenia
October 2023 – March 2025
US$ 67,957
Remaining brackish marshes (c. 2,000 ha) within the wider Ararat Plain
Armenia cochineal and diverse wetland-associated species
Why This Landscape Matters
The wetlands of the Ararat Plain are a biodiversity hotspot, home to over 4,000 species of animals and plants, including the endemic Armenia cochineal. They also provide ecosystem services such as climate regulation, water retention, and resources for rural livelihoods.
However, historic drainage and conversion to agriculture caused a dramatic loss of habitat and ecological function. Much of the agricultural land is now salinized and abandoned, creating challenges for communities but also opportunities for restoration.
What the Project is Doing
The planning grant is supporting the design of a restoration strategy that balances biodiversity goals with community needs. Key actions include:
Building on the results of a pilot restoration intervention.
Assessing opportunities for both ecological benefits and improved livelihoods.
Scoping out technical, legal, and financial requirements for wetland recovery.
Engaging with local communities and government ministries to align restoration with local priorities.
Looking Ahead
The project will deliver a justified restoration plan for the Ararat Plain’s degraded wetlands. By combining scientific analysis, community engagement, and government collaboration, it aims to create a strong foundation for restoring marshes that support biodiversity, contribute to climate change mitigation, and enhance local resilience.
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