The ways of combining nature conservation and recreation activities in the Arctic: the Teriberka Nature Park example (Murmansk Region)

Abstract

The authors give ecological arguments for the creation of the Teriberka Nature Park (2,418.5 ha). The Nature Park is characterized by high recreational potential as well as environmental significance. 18 species of plants and animals listed in the Red Data Book of the Murmansk Region, as well as five ones listed in the Red Data Book of the Russian Federation are recorded within the boundaries of the Natural Park. There are natural-territorial complexes of special aesthetic value here: the valley of the Teriberka River, the coast of the Barents Sea with a rugged coastline, beaches and sea terraces formed by large rounded boulders, Batareisky Waterfall, rocky hills and areas of shrub tundra, interspersed with small lakes, sheer cliffs with colonies sea birds, a number of historical and archaeological sites. Currently, the landscapes of lower reaches of the Teriberka River are experiencing a strong human impact. An important feature of the territory is easy transport accessibility for tourists. At present, the uncontrolled tourist flow is the most significant agent of the territory transformation, as a result of which landscapes with high aesthetic qualities begin to degrade. With the creation of a natural park, the intensity and coverage of human disturbances of landscapes will be reduced, and the existing aesthetic potential of landscapes will be used more efficiently. Land use planning has been developed in order to establish a differentiated regime of special protection. The nature protection areas are intended to preserve the environment in its natural state, and the recreational zone is intended to ensure and implement recreational activities and nature-educational tourism. In order to preserve the landscape and architectural unity of the village and the natural park, regulation has been introduced for the construction of new and reconstructed buildings in accordance with the historical environment.