One of the unique places in Turkmenistan is the Amudarya State Nature Reserve, which is currently experiencing a colorful golden autumn season.
The reserve was founded in 1982 for the scientific study and conservation of the ecosystems of the Gyzylgum and Garagum steppes, as well as the rivers surrounding the middle reaches of the Amudarya. The reserve includes the areas of "Görelde", "Gabakly", "Nargyz" and the limited reserve "Kelif". These territories cover the forest and desert zones of the Lebap velayat, occupying more than 150 thousand hectares.
Nargyz section consists of coastal forests and sands of the Gyzylgum, and the Gabakly section is located next to forests on the banks of the Amudarya and is crossed by the Garagum and Gyzylgum deserts. The reserve contains a variety of landscapes: forests, streams, wetlands and sand dunes, which contribute to the richness of flora and fauna.
The Amudarya Nature Reserve is home for many species of animals, including red deer, beavers, desert cats and jackals. There are more than 40 species of mammals, 175 species of birds, 36 species of fish and a large number of invertebrates. Birds include the fishing eagle, heron, goose and black duck. Thanks to ongoing conservation efforts, the number of endangered forest deer is gradually increasing.
The flora of the reserve is also diverse: about 230 species of plants grow here, many of which are considered medicinal. In forest areas, trees such as cypress, willow and Jungarian poplar dominate, and valuable medicinal plants are found in desert areas.
Scientific research conducted on the territory of the reserve plays a key role in the restoration of the ecosystem and the preservation of natural heritage. Thanks to the coordinated work of its employees, the reserve carries out an important environmental mission aimed at protecting the unique nature and sustainable development of the velayat.