Second Edition of 'Ranger 2024' Award Ceremony Held in Armenia

In the context of World Ranger Day, which is celebrated globally, the 'Ranger 2024' award ceremony has taken place for the second time in Armenia. This was announced by the Ministry of Environment. This day has been observed since 2007, having been proclaimed by the International Ranger Federation (IRF) to honor the contributions of park rangers to the conservation of nature.

As part of the day's significance, the Ministry of Environment, in partnership with the Caucasus Nature Fund, announced the 'Ranger 2024' award ceremony. The results were summarized during an engaging competitive event held at the 'Zikatar' State Reserve in the Tavush region, organized by the Ministry's 'Protected Areas Complex' SNCO.

61 employees from the protected areas under the Ministry of Environment and the Eco-guard Service submitted applications for participation in the 'Ranger 2024' award. 15 participants passed the initial testing phase and qualified for the final stage.

On August 30, the final phase of the competition was conducted at the 'Zikatar' State Reserve, where the winners of the award ceremony were determined. Attendees included Ara Mkrtchyan, Deputy Minister of Environment; Vladimir Kirakosyan, head of the Eco-guard Service; Elizabeth Masoud, Executive Director of the Caucasus Nature Fund; Arman Vermishyan, Director of the Caucasus Nature Fund's Armenia office; guests, and media representatives.

In his greeting speech, the Deputy Minister emphasized the dedication and efforts that employees of the SNCOs and the Eco-guard Service invest in their daily work. According to the Deputy Minister, this competition aims to elevate and emphasize the role of specialists involved in the conservation of specially protected natural areas and forests. He noted that this objective aligns with the establishment of the Eco-guard Service by the Ministry.

The participants who advanced to the final stage demonstrated their skills in physical fitness, navigation in the terrain, use of modern technical devices, first aid, and knowledge of the ecological significance and awareness of their designated areas. The commission evaluated each participant, and winners were selected, receiving certificates and monetary prizes: 1st place went to Narek Hovhannisyan from the 'Dilijan' National Park, 2nd place to Arthur Kocharian from the Eco-guard Service, 2nd place to Maria Petrosyan from the 'Zangezur Biosphere Complex' SNCO, 3rd place to Vahe Khachatryan from the Eco-guard Service, 3rd place to Sasun Pirinyan from the Eco-guard Service, and 3rd place to Khachik Hakobyan from the Eco-guard Service. Other participants with notable results were awarded gift cards.