Racha-Likhi Ridge
Planning the restoration of a critical ecological corridor in the Caucasus.
This planning grant is creating strategies to restore degraded habitats and strengthen ecological connectivity across the Racha-Likhi Ridge. Forming the only natural corridor between the Greater and Lesser Caucasus, the ridges safeguard important water catchments and support unique species, including the endemic Caucasian grouse.
Racha and Likhi Ridges, Georgia
SABUKO
October 2023 – ongoing
US$ 90,000
153,000 ha
Forests, grasslands, mountain ridges, catchments
Caucasian grouse, European bison (feasibility of reintroduction under assessment)
Why this landscape matters
The Racha-Likhi Ridge is a critical ecological link, connecting the Greater and Lesser Caucasus mountain ranges. Its forests and grasslands regulate water flows and provide habitat for rich biodiversity, while also underpinning local livelihoods.
However, unsustainable management practices have driven habitat degradation and fragmentation. Without action, the resilience of ecosystems and the services they provide to communities will continue to decline.
What the project is doing
The grant is supporting the design of a large-scale restoration plan that combines ecological and social priorities. Activities include:
Mapping stakeholders’ attitudes towards conservation and restoration to inform decision-making.
Facilitating networking and dialogue to strengthen coordination between local communities and institutions.
Together, these actions will lay the foundation for habitat recovery, improved connectivity, and climate resilience.
Assessing the feasibility of reintroducing large wild herbivores, including the European bison.
Looking ahead
By integrating ecological analysis with stakeholder engagement, the project will create a roadmap for restoring the ridge’s habitats at scale. This planning phase will enable future investment in actions that reconnect fragmented ecosystems, safeguard endemic species, and enhance benefits for local communities.
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