How national parks differ from natural parks, as well as from nature reserves and sanctuaries

Many believe that foreign national and natural parks are analogues of our national reserves. In fact, these are different types of conservation areas that differ from each other in the level of protection of ecosystems and the mode of visit. So, we offer to see how the different types of territories with an environmental regime that exist in Russia and other countries differ.

Natural monument

Natural monument Seliger lake

Reserve

Reserves are created with the aim of protecting certain species of animals or plants, or to preserve the entire landscape complex. In these territories, economic activity is permitted that does not prejudice protected species. Scientific research is carried out here, and people sometimes interfere in the life of the inhabitants of the reserve, feeding ungulates in the winter or regulating the number of some species of animals.

National park

Human activities in the national park are also limited, but allowed. In addition, tourists visit the territory of the national park for whom special routes are developed and observation platforms are equipped. National parks often combine conservation with educational activities.

Natural Park

The environmental regime in natural parks is not as strict as in national parks, but the main purpose of their creation is the organization of recreation. Of course, the environmental component is also present, but natural parks are known primarily as popular places for outdoor activities and they are often visited by tourists.

Natural park "Ergaki"

Nature reserve

Reserves include territories in which any economic activity is completely prohibited. This includes not only hunting or deforestation, but also fishing, picking berries, mushrooms and other wild plants. In the reserves only scientific activity is allowed and in rare cases ecotourism is possible.

Biosphere Reserve

The status of biosphere reserves are included in the international network of especially valuable natural territories, organized as part of the UNESCO program. Monitoring their status and scientific activity is carried out in the framework of international programs. At the same time, both a nature reserve and a national park can serve as the basis for organizing a biosphere reserve. In total, there are more than 650 biosphere reserves in the world, and in Russia there are 37 of these conservation areas with international status.