Agriculture Minister congratulates rangers on World Ranger Day

Georgia’s protected areas are safeguarded by nearly 500 rangers employed across 25 administrative units, covering 1,066,175 hectares of the nation’s territory. An event celebrating World Ranger Day, organised by the Agency of Protected Areas under the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, took place in Kvabiskhevi, within the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, according to a statement released by the Ministry.

The Ministry reported that the Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, David Songhulashvili, and the Chairman of the Agency of Protected Areas, Otar Edisherashvili, congratulated the rangers on their professional day.

“Today, Georgia’s protected areas account for nearly 15% of the country’s total territory. This statistical figure clearly reflects the state’s commitment to preserving our natural heritage and biodiversity. Our objective is to ensure the effective management of Georgia’s 112 protected areas across six distinct categories, equip them with modern technologies, and promote ranger work as a profession amongst future generations. I want to congratulate our country’s more than 500 rangers on their professional day and express my deepest gratitude for the service they perform in safeguarding our unique natural environment,” stated David Songhulashvili.

In keeping with tradition, the event included an awards ceremony honouring rangers for the successful execution of their duties and exceptional contributions to their field, with certificates and commemorative gifts presented to the recipients. A tribute was also paid to the memory of rangers who tragically lost their lives in the line of duty.

The event was attended by deputy ministers, Minister of Agriculture and Environmental Protection of the Autonomous Republic of Adjara Denis Salukvadze, members of the Parliament of Georgia, and representatives from local government bodies and agencies within the Ministry’s remit.