Enhanced Measures to Be Implemented in Lake Sevan Area

In order to ensure the natural reproduction of fish during the spawning period of the trout and carp species, access to Lake Sevan for any bathing facilities has been prohibited, and enhanced monitoring has been established throughout Armenia.

The Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Armenia informs that within the framework of the implemented actions, the Ministry of Environment, the RA Police, the Gegharkunik Regional Administration, and the Environmental and Mining Inspection body have signed a joint quadrilateral program for actions and cooperation. All bathing facilities, fishing tools, and temporary shelters have been removed from the territory of the “Sevan” National Park prior to the enforcement period.

Strict monitoring will be conducted along all forest roads surrounding Lake Sevan from December 20, 2018, to January 20, 2019, inclusive, with check points established. A round-the-clock shift has been arranged to maintain constant communication with law enforcement bodies. Access to Lake Sevan for all types of fishing tools and bathing facilities has been prohibited.

As part of the measures, inspections are organized to prevent the sale of the Sevan trout species in the markets of Yerevan and other regions. Inspections are also being conducted on Lake Sevan and in other areas of the “Sevan” National Park.

The Ministry of Environment urges residents living near the areas surrounding Lake Sevan to refrain from accessing the lake with bathing facilities and to support the ongoing measures. If the conservation measures proceed effectively, the possibilities for granting permits for the legal capture of trout will be considered.