Focus Area: Protected Area Management
Protected Area Management
ZS Luujin supports the sustainable management of Mongolia’s protected areas through collaborative partnerships, ecological restoration, and advanced wildlife monitoring techniques. Our efforts include SMART patrols, water point restoration, rangeland management, and eco-club initiatives that engage local communities in conservation.
Protected Area Management
Key Initiatives & Milestones:
- NGS project 2018-2021
- DI-2 project: 2021-2024
- Water point restoration at six locations GGASPA
- Camera trapping at 13 water points across GGSPA
- Collaborative Management Council (13 stakeholders)
- SMART patrol
- Rangeland management support
- Eco-club strengthening: 7 clubs (Tools: Nomadic trunk, Plans, Annual Events, Gobi Book)
Biodiversity Monitoring Route (3500km)
As part of our Protected Area Management efforts, ZS Luujin supports a 3,500 km biodiversity monitoring route across key regions in the Great Gobi SPA and surrounding buffer zones. This route is regularly patrolled by trained volunteer rangers and local partners to track wildlife populations, monitor ecosystem changes, and assess conservation impact. With key monitoring points along the route as shown on the map, the data collected plays a vital role in guiding science-based conservation decisions and ensuring the long-term protection of species such as the Wild Bactrian Camel, Snow Leopard, and Siberian Marmot.
Water point restoration locations
ZS Luujin has implemented water point restoration efforts across seven key zones within the Great Gobi SPA and its buffer areas. Water point restoration involves the rehabilitation of natural springs, wells, and other water sources that are critical for both wildlife and local herder communities, especially in arid desert regions. By restoring and maintaining these vital resources, we help ensure year-round water availability, reduce pressure on fragile habitats, and support biodiversity. The restoration sites are strategically located based on ecological need, with their positions highlighted on the map to show the reach and impact of this initiative.
🌿 Eco Club Training & Community Engagement
As part of our Protected Area Management efforts in the Great Gobi Specially Protected Area (SPA) Buffer Zone, ZS Luujin has established and supported Eco Clubs—a grassroots initiative aimed at involving local communities in conservation and raising awareness about their unique environment. Through these Eco Clubs, we work directly with local herders, youth, and volunteers in the Gobi region, encouraging them to become active stewards of the land. Our activities include:
- Regular field-based training sessions on topics such as water point restoration, wildlife protection, and sustainable land use practices.
- Annual gatherings that bring together Eco Club members, volunteers, and community leaders to share knowledge, celebrate progress, and strengthen local conservation networks.
- The development of an educational handbook, “Eco Clubs in the Great Gobi SPA Buffer Zone”, designed to support public awareness efforts. The handbook features science-based information about the region’s flora, fauna, climate, and geography, and is used as a practical resource in schools and community settings.
Field training
Annual gathering
Award to best kids
The handbook contains science-based information about Great Gobi flora and fauna, geography, and climate
Habitat learning training kids group
Eco club meeting and training session
Jump to our other focus areas
Tackling IWT
Canine Conservation Program
Community-based conservation
Community Banking - VLSAs
Research and monitoring
