Yugyd Va National Park
The Russian Government signed the decree creating Yugyd Va National Park on the 23rd of April 1994. This action aimed to protect taiga forests while allowing for recreational use of the land. Just one year later, in 1995, UNESCO recognized the forest area as a World Heritage Site under the name Virgin Komi Forests. The designation included both the new park and the nearby Pechora-Ilych Nature Reserve. This dual recognition marked a significant moment for conservation efforts across Northern Russia.
Yugyd Va National Park sits on the western slopes of the Polar Urals and Northern Ural mountains. It straddles the border between Europe and Asia along the main ridge of the range. Mount Narodnaya rises to 1894.5 meters within the central part of the territory. Nearby peaks include Mount Karpinsky at 1878 meters and Bell Tower at 1724 meters. The Manaraga River flows near Mount Manaraga, which stands 1662 meters high. These geological formations were created more than 200 million years ago during the formation of the Prepolar-Ural physical-geographical area.
More than half of the park is covered by taiga boreal forests while higher elevations feature tundra landscapes. Some 20 square kilometers exist as meadows in alpine zones or river valleys. Eighteen bird species inhabit the region including several quite rare varieties. Twenty fish species live in the rivers and lakes that flow through the terrain. Five amphibian species and one reptile species complete the known animal inventory. Common mammals include mountain hare, flying squirrel, reindeer, ermine, otter, wolf, fox, wolverine, bear, pine marten, weasel, and Arctic fox.
Recreational activities range from rafting and boating to hiking during summer months. Nordic skiing becomes the primary activity when winter arrives across the snow-covered landscape. Limited hunting occurs but requires permits applied for several months in advance. Only about 4,000 tourists visit the remote location each year according to management figures. User fees generate some 2.4 million roubles annually which equals roughly US$100,000. Park expenses reach approximately 5 million roubles or US$200,000 per year leaving a significant financial gap.
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Common questions
When did the Russian Government sign the decree creating Yugyd Va National Park?
The Russian Government signed the decree creating Yugyd Va National Park on the 23rd of April 1994. This action aimed to protect taiga forests while allowing for recreational use of the land.
What year was Yugyd Va National Park recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO?
UNESCO recognized the forest area as a World Heritage Site under the name Virgin Komi Forests in 1995. The designation included both the new park and the nearby Pechora-Ilych Nature Reserve.
Where is Yugyd Va National Park located geographically within Russia?
Yugyd Va National Park sits on the western slopes of the Polar Urals and Northern Ural mountains. It straddles the border between Europe and Asia along the main ridge of the range.
How many bird species inhabit the region inside Yugyd Va National Park?
Eighteen bird species inhabit the region including several quite rare varieties. Twenty fish species live in the rivers and lakes that flow through the terrain alongside five amphibian species and one reptile species.
Why does Yugyd Va National Park face a significant financial gap annually?
Park expenses reach approximately 5 million roubles or US$200,000 per year leaving a significant financial gap. User fees generate some 2.4 million roubles annually which equals roughly US$100,000.