Conservation issues

Fire hazards

Recurring steppe and forest fires are major ecological problems of Central Siberia. Every year thousands of hectares burn down in large infernos or are damaged by smaller fires. The highest risk falls on April and May, but also many fire incidents happen in July and August, especially during dry summers. The main cause of the problem is irresponsible action of people. Unlucky habit of burning dry grass in spring gets easily out of control and spreads instantly by wind, which can be particularly strong in an open steppe. Such fires kill wildlife, damage entire ecosystems, and disturb the ecological balance also in the neighbouring areas where fleeing animals compete for space and food with the native ones. The problem is exacerbated by the lack of sophisticated fire-fighting techniques and the only option available is the use of brooms and spades. Therefore, prevention is the best cure. We kindly ask all visitors in Central Siberia to take all the necessary precautions to avoid fire hazards (see also Instructions and rules) and to reduce smoking in fire sensitive areas.

Littering has become a serious problem in many protected areas in Russia. Visitors are encouraged to help keep the Siberian wilderness free of litter, and to recycle wastes whenever possible. In some areas litter bins or bags are provided, but especially in national parks and more remote areas hikers are asked to look after their own wastes, according to the principle that if you can manage to bring something into the forest, you can also manage to take it out again! To reduce the problem, we therefore urge all visitors:

• to abide by the rule: hiking without littering and to take all their personal litter outside the protected area and cultural monuments and to deposit it at a suitable collection point,
• to prevent waste by using reusable containers and bags for packed lunches etc.,
• even though in some areas special waste containers or bags are provided, it is advisable to keep to the ruling principle and take one's own waste away. So far, there are no recycling and waste management facilities in Siberian protected areas. 

Useful waste tips

• Almost all dry toilets can be used as compost points where food scraps and other biodegradable wastes may be left.
• Small quantities of safely combustible wastes may be burnt on campfires.
• Never miss an opportunity to use a proper toilet facility. If you must go, in the outdoors, deposit solid human waste in a hole dug 10-12 cm deep at least 30 metres (70 steps) from water, campsites, and trails. This will promote decomposition of the waste and reduce the likelihood that other visitors may have unpleasant encounters. Cover and disguise the hole when you are finished and be sure to pack out all used toilet paper and hygiene products in an impermeable plastic bag.