Resolution CM/ResDip(2013)2
on the award of the European Diploma of Protected Areas
to the Khosrov Forest Reserve (Armenia)

(Adopted by the Committee of Ministers on 10 July 2013

at the 1176th meeting of the Ministers’ Deputies)

The Committee of Ministers, under the terms of Article 15.a of the Statute of the Council of Europe,

Having regard to Resolution Res(65)6 on the European Diploma for certain protected landscapes, reserves and natural features, as amended by Resolution CM/ResDip(2008)1 on the revised regulations for the European Diploma of Protected Areas;

Having regard to the proposals of the Standing Committee of the Bern Convention;

Taking into consideration the expert’s report presented at the meeting of the Group of Specialists on the European Diploma of Protected Areas on 26 March 2013;

Having noted the agreement of the Government of Armenia,

Solemnly awards the European Diploma of Protected Areas to the Khosrov Forest Reserve (Armenia), recognising the European significance of the reserve which has remarkable landscapes, very diverse habitats and a rich biodiversity, large areas of very interesting and significant virgin or semi-virgin forests of different types, and benefitting from long-term protection and a good management plan and organisation;

Places the aforesaid area under the patronage of the Council of Europe until 10 July 2018;

Attaches the following two conditions to the award:

1.         the Armenian authorities should take the necessary action to ensure that the existing water resources facilities will not be expanded within the area and that they will stay fully compatible with the preservation of the European interest of the area; and

2.         public motor vehicle traffic, including for transportation of tourists, will be strictly forbidden on the existing gravel roads within the area except for management purposes and in case of emergencies;

Attaches the following six recommendations, for the Forest Reserve Authorities, to the award:

1.         to develop appropriate efforts for preventing and minimising illegal activities, including poaching of large mammals within the reserve; 

2.         to develop and implement awareness and training activities for local people, visitors and members of the staff of the reserve, particularly in relation to the management of litter and other waste;

3.         to implement the sustainable tourism strategy fully and to monitor related activities;

4.         to pursue inventories and mapping of species and habitats, not only in the Emerald Network but preferably on the whole territory of the reserve;

5.         with the Armenian authorities, to guarantee the budget of the reserve; and

6.         to renew the management plan for 2015 onwards, including a grazing plan and updating the socio-economic activities within the reserve.