In Russia’s remote Far East, authorities are undertaking a significant overhaul of infrastructure within the South Kamchatka Federal Sanctuary, a pristine wilderness renowned for its dense brown bear population and vital salmon spawning grounds. An extensive inspection of the area around the iconic Kuril Lake has just concluded, laying the groundwork for a new phase of development aimed at balancing growing tourism with stringent environmental protection.
The review, led by the chief engineer of the Kronotsky State Reserve, assessed the progress of key projects including a new visitor center, upgrades to the “Ozerny” and “Travyanoy” ranger stations, and the maintenance of tourist trails and helicopter pads. These efforts are part of a long-term plan extending to 2026 to enhance visitor safety and comfort. Current construction activities are being finalized as the tourist season at Kuril Lake draws to a close on October 1, after which the sanctuary will be closed to visitors for the winter.
Executing major construction in such a wild environment presents unique challenges. Teams must navigate their work schedules around natural phenomena, such as the peak of the salmon run in local rivers and the frequent appearance of bears on tourist paths. Officials from the reserve emphasize their core mission: “Our main task is to create harmonious conditions for the coexistence of wildlife and humans.” This philosophy guides all development, ensuring that human activity does not disrupt the delicate natural cycles of the region.
Looking ahead, the plans incorporate innovative elements of ecological restoration. In a notable example, a helicopter pad at the “Travyanoy” station, previously damaged by bears, will not be rebuilt with artificial materials. Instead, it will be dismantled and replaced with a specially prepared natural meadow, designed to serve as a landing zone. This pioneering approach aims to minimize the human footprint on the fragile ecosystem, preserving the unique and untamed landscapes of Kamchatka for generations to come.