VTB has opened a new ecotrope in the national park “Land of the Leopard”
VTB and the Land of the Leopard National Park have opened an ecotope in a specially protected area in Primorsky Krai, Kamchatka.Today reports.
Proper organization of the tourist route will help save wildlife from destruction and for the first time open up a view of the previously inaccessible fourth waterfall. The ecological trail “Kravtsov Waterfalls” will be free to visit as a tourist.
An ecotrope with wooden flooring will minimize the load on the territory of the protected area of the national park, launch the process of self-healing of nature and maintain proper care of the area. To preserve the unique ecosystem, the existing trail has been expanded by 125 m, the total climb is 117 m, and the total length of the route will be 485 meters.
“Russia is a leader in the world in the number of specially protected natural territories, the purpose of which is to preserve unique complexes, rare species of animals and plants. The bank’s environmental projects are one of the important elements of its sustainable development strategy. By supporting the Land of the Leopard National Park, we are contributing to the careful restoration of the Far Eastern leopard population, updating the technical base, conducting scientific research and creating conditions for safe ecotourism,” comments Natalia Kochneva, Senior Vice President of VTB.
“Every year, more than 130,000 guests from around the world visit the protected areas of the Land of the Leopard. Interest in eco-tourism is constantly growing, so the unique nature needs special careful protection. The boardwalk literally saves this object, makes visiting it comfortable and reduces anthropogenic impact,” said Viktor Bardyuk, Director of the Land of the Leopard Federal State Budgetary Institution.
The Kravtsovsky Waterfalls ecotrope naturally fits into the ecosystem and offers a view of four waterfalls. The new route passes by the waterfalls “Wild Mouth” and “Stepped”, which were previously inaccessible to the public. Recreation areas and an active spring are provided for visitors. Information stands are located along the trail, which introduce visitors to the local flora and fauna, as well as the history and features of each waterfall.
VTB holds the title of Guardian of the Leopard, and the family of wild Far Eastern leopards is under the care of the bank: mother Gerda, son Phoenix, and two more young kittens. Since 2023, VTB has acquired a tractor for the needs of protected areas and five UAZ vehicles to protect against poachers and forest fires. In the near future, a name will be chosen for another Gerda kitten.
The bank’s environmental projects are implemented within the framework of the target program “Healthy Country”, created in the interests of the national projects “Long and active life”, “Environmental well-being” and “Family”.
As part of the program, VTB supports environmental projects of partners, including the Land of the Leopard, the Kronotsky Nature Reserve, the Amur Tiger Center, as well as cultural initiatives aimed at nature conservation, such as the production of the documentary film The Fiery Fox. Since 2025, VTB has been supporting the Nature Defenders Fund.