An archive photo
MINSK, 13 November (BelTA) – Anton Kuzmitsky, a researcher at the Belovezhskaya Pushcha National Park, briefed journalists on the construction progress of an international wildlife research center within the park, BelTA reports.
Anton Kuzmitsky said: “There are plans to establish an international wildlife research center based on the park’s scientific department. It will be equipped with modern laboratories for world-class scientific research. A separate two-story building is being constructed for this purpose.” He noted that the facility is nearly 50% complete and that the staff is expected to grow significantly. “The number of employees is expected to almost double: from 16 to 30. This year, the staff is expanding, with new people joining,” he said.
He believes the center will strengthen existing research areas and pioneer new ones, acting as a driving force in regional science and setting a new pace for applied research. It will function as a dedicated research institute to support the national park’s environmental protection mission, with its construction being a key part of the park’s broader development concept.
Anton Kuzmitsky added that scientists have developed a 10-year management plan to guide the park effectively. This plan outlines long-term goals crucial for maintaining its status as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its objectives include preserving the park’s natural heritage, advancing scientific research on its ecosystems, and developing regional tourism. “It’s worth noting that tourism is reaching a new level. Over the past 10 years, its share of the park’s economy has grown from 10% to almost 50%,” the researcher noted. The plan also emphasizes fostering environmental awareness and a caring attitude toward nature in the younger generation.
