Project Context and Aim

Often referred to as Georgia’s ‘lake district’, the 280,000 ha volcanic highland Javakheti plateau is on two major flyways for migratory birds. It is one of the most botanically diverse areas in the region and is home to the Marbled Polecat, Eurasian Lynx, Wolf and Brown Bear. Damaged by Soviet-era modifications, such as large-scale drainage, the plateau is now aggravated by heavy eutrophication and the changing climate, both of which threaten the wildlife and local communities which rely on the ecosystem services provided by the wetlands.  This project seeks to overcome knowledge and political barriers by undertaking studies on the hydrology and socio-economic use of the area to inform the development of a comprehensive and participatory landscape restoration plan. The aim is to demonstrate that the restoration of the Javakheti landscape is not only possible, it is also in everybody’s best interest.  

Project Partners