Argali Sheep in Tajikistan © ANCOT (NGO)
Bonn, 3 February 2022 - In 2022, the Wild Sheep Foundation (USA) established the Argali Conservation Achievement Award to recognize efforts of individuals and organizations in Argali Range States. Tajikistan is home to the world’s largest Argali population and the major of Tajikistan’s capital city Dushanbe became the first recipient of the award. His Excellency Rustami Emomali the Mayor of Dushanbe is also the founder of the Association of Hunters of Tajikistan who’s work contributed to the establishment of sustainable hunting mechanisms and conservation of wild sheep habitats in the country.
The populations of rare mountain ungulates in Tajikistan, such as the argali, markhor and Bukhara urial are currently estimated at 25,000, 4,000 and 4,000 respectively. His Excellency’s engagement was pivotal in safeguarding these populations. The award was presented in absentia during an official meeting taking place on January 13, 2022 in the frame of the Sheep Week, held in Reno, Nevada.
The Board of Directors of the Wild Sheep Protection Fund, and the staff of the Committee for Nature Protection of Tajikistan congratulate His Excellency Rustami Emomali on receiving this award.
The following activities describe His Excellency’s involvement in conservation:
The Wild Sheep Foundation (WSF), headquartered in Bozeman, Montana, was founded in 1977 by wildlife advocates and enthusiasts. In the United States, WSF work has contributed to the increase of bighorn sheep, which numbered 25,000 in the 1950-60s, to more than 85,000 today.
WSF is the largest organization dedicated to the conservation of wild sheep, as well as their habitats. It has more than 8,500 members worldwide, which has raised and spent more than $135 million on habitat and population improvement, education and conservation programs in North America, Europe and Asia.
Original article in English:
Article contributed by: www.tajnature.tj
Last updated on 03 February 2022