Expedition in the "Potik Osa" nature reserve: Assessment of the regime of protection of ancient forests

From June 20 to June 22, 2024, an expert from the NGO ForestCom conducted an expedition in the Transcarpathian region to assess the protective regime of old growth forests and other objects of Ukraine's nature reserve fund. The total length of the route was 14.7 km, with 5 km dedicated to monitoring sites.

Nine objects were inspected, which hold the status of old growth forests which are natural heritage sites covering a total area of 106 hectares. Among them were 4 plots totaling 40 hectares designated as  old growth forests, and 1 plot of 3.6 hectares categorized as quasi-primeval. These areas are located in the territory of Svalyava Forestry (a branch of "Svalyavskе Forestry" of the State Specialized Forest Enterprise “Forests of Ukraine”"). In addition, four plots covering 62.6 hectares identified as natural forests were surveyed in the territory of Nyzhniovolochkiv Forestry, a branch of "Volovetskе Forestry" of the state enterprise "Forests of Ukraine."

Fig. 1: Surveyed objects

As part of the expedition, the all-state general zoological reserve "Potik Osa" was surveyed, established to conserve and restore the gene pool and habitats of specific species of wild animals and fish. This reserve safeguards habitats for endangered species such as the fire salamander, alpine newt, alpine shrew, Eurasian pygmy shrew, and brook trout. "Potik Osa" is situated in the valley of the mountain stream Osa, a left tributary of the Vicha River (Latoritsa basin) within the territory of Nyzhniovolochkiv Forestry, covering an area of 500 hectares.

Sharing his impressions from the expedition, expert Volodymyr Yarotsky of the NGO ForestCom states, "It is a very picturesque place. Just imagine: ferns and moss on rocks and trees, ancient beech trees, cascades, and waterfalls in the river. Potik Osa is quite narrow, with constant dim lighting and high humidity, which are crucial for certain vulnerable species."

The expert also shared the survey results. Entry to the reserve is restricted with a barrier. Despite having an informational sign about the reserve in accordance with the branding guidelines of the state enterprise "Forests of Ukraine," official state signs and plaques essential for territories and objects of Ukraine's nature reserve fund according to the standard template were missing. This includes boundary protection signs of the nature reserve fund and informational boards.

There are several parking spaces within the reserve for tourists. No significant breaches of the protection regime were identified. It is worth noting that "Potik Osa" is a compelling site for organizing nature conservation, eco-educational, and nature therapy events due to its proximity to the suburban train stop, access to the Borzhava upland, and interesting natural attractions.

During the inspection of forest disturbances, no issues were found—forest roads were blocked with barriers, and isolated tree cuttings obstructing the paths were discovered.

No tourist activity was observed along this route, although several rescue points were set up for tourists. This route is primarily used by bilberry pickers ascending to the upland, as evidenced by tracks and visual observations.

Recommendations from the NGO ForestCom expert:

1. Recommend the installation of signs and plaques according to the unified state standard for territories and objects of Ukraine's nature reserve fund within the all-state general zoological reserve "Potik Osa."

2. Install signs and plaques according to the unified state standard for primeval natural heritage sites within territories and objects of Ukraine's nature reserve fund.

3. Conduct further monitoring of the protective regime.

This expedition was conducted under the "Combating Illegal Logging in Ukraine" project, supported by the U.S. Forest Service International Programs Office.