IoriPlateau
Kakheti Region, Georgia
Preventing desertification in the
Iori Plateau
Stretching across sweeping grasslands, arid and riparian forests, the steppes of southeastern Georgia are a last refuge for endangered species like the Goitered Gazelle, Eurasian Lynx, and countless birds of prey. Even the elusive Caucasian Leopard has been spotted here, raising hopes of its return to the region. The Iori Plateau supports traditional semi-nomadic shepherd communities, whose way of life has been intertwined with the land for generations.
During the Soviet era, overgrazing from intensified sheep farming degraded the region’s grasslands, a problem now worsened by climate change. The Society for Nature Conservation (SABUKO), BirdLife’s Partner in Georgia, is already working with local stakeholders to improve pasture management, pioneering eco-tourism initiatives, and advocating for stronger protections for this unique place.
Our Future Vision
The Osogovo region’s biodiversity thrives alongside vibrant local traditions. Through well-managed forests and restored riparian zones, the mountain stands an example of ecological restoration across the Balkans. Forests are more resilient to climate change, with reduced soil erosion and healthier ecosystems that have brought back species like the Semi-collared Flycatcher and White-backed Woodpecker. Traditional fruit orchards flourish alongside a mosaic of healthy forests and meadows. Local communities lead the way in promoting eco-tourism and help protect Osogovo’s natural and cultural heritage for generations to come.
THE IORI PLATEAU AT A GLANCE
300+
Species
3+
Habitat types
100,000
Hectares
Habitat types
Grasslands, pastures, arid forests, riparian forest
Key Species
Chukar Partridge (Alectoris chukar), Egyptian Vulture (Neophron percnopterus), Eastern Imperial Eagle (Aquila heliaca), Goitered Gazelle (Gazella subgutturosa), Caucasian Leopard (Panthera pardus saxicolor), Brown Bear (Ursus arctos), Eurasian Lynx (Lynx lynx), Indian Porcupine (Hysterix indica), Caucasian Hackberry (Celtis caucasica), Pistachio (Pistacia mutica).
Size:
100,000 hectares
Designations
National Park, Managed Reserve, Protected Area with Sustainable Use of Natural Resources (IUCN VI category), Emerald Site, Biosphere Reserve, Key Biodiversity Area (KBA)
Main causes of degradation
Overgrazing, land-use mismanagement, climate change, change in traditional land use practices
Our plan: Restoring the Iori Plateau for nature, people and the planet
To fight back against the desertification of this extraordinary landscape, we will:
- Restore up to 1,000 km2 of grasslands, creating natural corridors that allow wildlife to move freely between protected areas and bolstering biodiversity.
- Reduce grazing pressures across 500 km² of steppes by collaborating with local shepherds and farmers to introduce sustainable grazing practices.
- Support the return of the Caucasian Leopard and conserving other endangered species, reinforcing a healthy predator-prey balance.
- Strengthen Protected Area management by training and equipping local authorities to improve patrolling, monitoring and enforcement of conservation regulations.
- Advocate for a hunting ban in the newly protected Emerald sites to preserve their ecological integrity Establish a designated hunting reserve outside the project area and Emerald sites.
- Promote nature-based tourism to leverage the region’s transhumance tradition and unique biodiversity, creating economic opportunities for local communities and raising awareness about conservation efforts.
- Achieve good ecological status for the Iori River by developing a management plan that aligns with the Biosphere Reserve and Protected Areas plans, ensuring sustainable water use and ecosystem health.
- Train the next generation of conservation experts through an MSc course in grassland ecology and management at Ilia State University in Tbilisi, equipping future professionals to protect Georgia’s wild steppes.
In 2050
The Iori Plateau is a thriving and resilient haven for both wildlife and local communities. It is well-equipped to withstand climate change and human pressures. Restored wildlife populations, including a robust population of the Caucasian Leopard, roam freely through a network of natural corridors. Healthy steppe grasslands support abundant wildlife alongside sustainable grazed livestock. Local communities actively embrace sustainable agricultural and grazing practices that balance human needs with nature.
“The Iori Plateau is more than just land. It’s a lifeline for both nature and the people who call it home. By restoring its ecosystems and embracing sustainable practices, we can build a future where wildlife thrives, communities prosper, and traditions are preserved, all while we adapt to the challenges of a changing climate”Aleksandre Mikeladze, Project Manager at SABUKO
