The Park serves as a test plot for new strategies of ecosystem conservation, environmental education, and sustainable development that will benefit both people and wildlife. Park lands were declared Wetlands of International Importance by the Ramsar Convention in 1995. Since 1994, when the Park was established, numbers of endangered red-crowned, white-naped and hooded cranes, and Oriental white storks have increased three fold. Hundreds of local children and teachers have participated in summer camps and become strong allies for conservation in the area.

Success of the Park Dr. Smirenski understands that it is impossible to try to force people to do anything, even good things. The success of the Park lies in identifying and helping the needs of local people by understanding their thinking and way of life. With this approach, the Park is able to win trust, respect and cooperation from all. Links: Friends of Muraviovka Park Red-crowned crane fact sheet White-naped crane fact sheet Zhuraval Newsletter 2005

The Park looks beyond the short-term, using a comprehensive approach for solutions that will create a sustainable environment and economy. The Park is committed to introducing new methods of land use that will benefit both wildlife and local communities. This includes wildlife research, restoration and management, supporting social programs (such as providing cloths for orphans), and initiating international cooperation between governmental and non-governmental institutions.

Environmental summer camps at the Park have hosted more than 1,500 Russian school children, plus students from China and South Korea. Teachers from the United States, Russia and China jointly organize these camps. The Park also facilitates environmental classes in other parts of Far Eastern Russia and China, and recently conducted the first environmental summer camp in China.

The Park hopes to soon have its Sustainable Demonstration Farm---1,167 acres of crops plus 2,467 acres of pasture---and become certified as an organic producer. As part of the certification process, an inspection was conducted by an independent organic farm inspector from the United States. New farming equipment purchased in 2003 allows for the production of better quality seeds, even during wet years, which will offer flour and animal feed to the locals, therefore increasing profitability of the Demonstration Farm. These strategies promote the successful integration of people and indigenous ecosystems.

Woodland Park Zoo’s Wild Wise outreach education program has worked with the Park’s founder and director, Dr. Sergei Smirenski, to obtain artwork from Russian students. These pieces are then displayed at the Othello Crane Festival in Othello, Washington, as part of an international art exchange with young U.S. artists.

Dr. Smirenski understands that it is impossible to try to force people to do anything, even good things. The success of the Park lies in identifying and helping the needs of local people by understanding their thinking and way of life. With this approach, the Park is able to win trust, respect and cooperation from all.

Partner since 1999.