A scientific and practical center has opened on the territory of the Krasny Bor nature complex in the Vitebsk region
The genetics of bison and deer have begun to be studied in the Vitebsk region. A laboratory for molecular genetic research of wildlife has been opened here. And, by the way, it's not only about representatives of fauna living in captivity, but also those living in natural conditions. The hunting grounds of "Krasny Bor" allow for this, as the territory exceeds 80 thousand hectares.
This laboratory has no analogues in the entire country. Here, rare and endangered animals' DNA is studied using the most modern equipment. Thus, scientists are seeking an answer to the question of how to preserve the fauna of our country for future generations.
Andrey is one of the first scientists at the new scientific and practical center who will study the largest animals under a microscope, literally by molecules.
The place for the center has been chosen most appropriately: many wild animals inhabit the pristine forests of the "Krasny Bor" natural complex.
Andrey Faybich, Head of the Laboratory of the Scientific and Practical Center for Hunting Science and Wild Animal Resource Management:
The main promising directions are working on the genetics of species such as the red deer and bison to assess their genetic diversity.
"Krasny Bor" owes the presence of rare wild bison and red deer to private investments – businessmen made efforts specifically for the republican reserve. In the north of the country, the families have already managed to have offspring, but their numbers still need to be under constant control. To find ways to support these and other inhabitants of the Krasny Bor forest, the first non-state research base in Belarus has been opened.
Pavel Geshtovt, Director of the Scientific and Practical Center for Hunting Science and Wild Animal Resource Management:
The center will deal with issues of rational use of wild animals, so that animals live in nature, fulfill their role, and at the same time humans can use it for various purposes.
Public-private partnership is reaching a new level: businesses are ready to invest in science. After all, the research center's data will be useful for forestry enterprises across the country. Young scientists from all over the world are also expected here. A dormitory for 28 people has been built specifically for them and for the employees of the scientific and practical center.
Igor Kachanovsky, Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection of the Republic of Belarus:
It will work for the whole country, it will share its experience with all enterprises. I hope it will establish close ties with scientific and environmental institutions. This is a very good example of how funds are wisely invested in our country.
Hubert Weidinger, an artist from Austria, has traveled to many countries in pursuit of trophies, and his immediate plans include hunting a crocodile in Zimbabwe. In the meantime, he is exploring the wildlife of Belarus. Today, he admits: our country has its own unique features of national hunting.
Hubert Weidinger, artist (Austria):
You have very natural nature. And if a person wants to try everything in hunting but has little time, they should come to Belarus.
Belarusian hunting is increasingly becoming a reason for foreigners to visit our country. Therefore, another task of the scientific center is to develop new approaches in hunting science, thereby attracting new tourists. In addition, "Krasny Bor" has everything necessary for guests' recreation.