LEPL Agency of Protected Areas

With the financial support of BP Georgia, the LEPL Agency of Protected Areas implemented the project “Biodiversity Restoration in Ajameti Managed Reserve” from 2023 to 2026. The project aimed to restore the forest ecosystem of Ajameti Managed Reserve, conserve and strengthen populations of Imeretian oak and Caucasian zelkova, develop the nursery, and enhance the capacity of the protected area administration.

The project was implemented to continue and expand ongoing environmental activities in Ajameti Managed Reserve, with a particular focus on the protection and restoration of Imeretian oak (Quercus imeretina). This species represents one of the most important ecological assets of Ajameti Managed Reserve and is included in Georgia’s Red List as a protected woody species.

The project included large-scale forest restoration activities. Saplings of Imeretian oak, Georgian oak, and Caucasian zelkova were planted in the target area, seed propagation activities were carried out, and additional restoration measures were implemented in degraded forest areas. A nursery was also established, where saplings grown from seeds collected within the reserve will continue to be used in future forest restoration activities.

During the project implementation period, particular attention was paid to sapling maintenance and ensuring their successful establishment. Measures were taken to improve soil fertility, organic biofertilizers and biological preparations were applied, and regular sapling maintenance, preventive disease treatments, irrigation system maintenance, and other essential agricultural practices were carried out. These activities significantly contributed to the growth and development of the saplings.

One of the key components of the project was strengthening the capacity of the Ajameti Managed Reserve Administration. Training sessions were conducted for staff on modern forest restoration methods, soil fertility management, biological plant protection, safety, wildlife monitoring, and first aid. In addition to theoretical instruction, participants acquired practical skills that will contribute to the effective management of the protected area in the future.

Upon completion of the project, agricultural machinery, equipment, and other essential assets purchased within the project framework were handed over to the Ajameti Managed Reserve Administration. Recommendations on forest restoration activities and the subsequent maintenance of saplings were also prepared and delivered to the administration, ensuring the sustainability of the project results and the effective management of restored areas.