Ahal velayat, Turkmenistan, 31 May 2024 — An introductory seminar presenting the results of work carried out under the project on the development of a “Comprehensive Plan for the Restoration of Degraded Desert Pastures of the Central Karakum and Their Sustainable Management under Intensifying Drought Conditions” was held in the Bokurdak village ("Erbent" Daykhan Association) of Ahal velayat. The event was organized by the Scientific-Information Center of the Interstate Commission on Sustainable Development (SIC ICSD) with the support of the FAO-GEF project “Integrated Natural Resources Management in Drought-Prone and Salinized Agricultural Production Landscapes in Central Asia and Türkiye (CACILM-2)”, which aims to promote sustainable land management across Central Asia.
The seminar brought together representatives of the scientific and expert community, specialists in natural resource management, pasture management and sustainable development, as well as stakeholders involved in project implementation in the pilot areas of the Central Karakum Desert. The main objective of the event was to present interim research results and discuss practical approaches to restoring degraded pasture ecosystems in the context of increasing drought and climate change.
During thematic presentations, project experts shared findings from research conducted across several areas of study. Particular attention was given to the assessment of the current condition of desert pastures based on field observations at the Karrykul research site and the Erbent Daykhan Association, as well as to the analysis of environmental and climatic conditions affecting pasture territories. Participants were also introduced to preliminary findings related to pasture water supply systems, the current state of desert forests in the pilot area and existing pasture management practices.
A separate discussion session focused on the socio-economic aspects of pasture management and the importance of assessing the social context when developing sustainable models for natural resource use. Experts also presented analyses evaluating the condition of pasturelands and identifying opportunities for their restoration and improvement.
The seminar also demonstrated the potential application of spatial technologies and geoinformation tools in the collection and analysis of natural resource data, which can enhance the accuracy of environmental monitoring and support more effective decision-making processes.
The practical component of the seminar included discussions of the presented materials, a question-and-answer session, and practical exercises designed to strengthen participants’ understanding and encourage the exchange of experience among specialists.
In concluding the event, participants highlighted the importance of continued cooperation in developing and implementing scientifically grounded approaches to restoring degraded pasture ecosystems and ensuring the sustainable management of natural resources in desert areas. The seminar marked an important step in the implementation of the project and further strengthened collaboration between SIC ICSD, FAO and national experts aimed at increasing the resilience of pasture ecosystems in the Central Karakum Desert to drought and climate change.
The event supports the achievement of:
| Priority Area of REP4SD No 5 dedicated to SDG 15: “Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems” |
| 5.1.2 capacity-building for sustainable management of forests, land, and pastures. |