Collaborative action has never been more critical as climate change intensifies wildfires across the South Caucasus. The Wilderness and Culture Fund (WCF) is proud to support the Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Assets (FPWC) and the US Forest Service in their joint mission to strengthen Armenia’s capacity to prevent and manage devastating forest fires.
FPWC and the US Forest Service co-hosted a vital three-day training on forest fire prevention and response in Urtsadzor, Armenia in May. Over 50 participants, including local government officials, emergency response teams, protected area staff, and community representatives, participated in the program, which provided hands-on experience and cutting-edge strategies to help safeguard Armenia’s fragile forest ecosystems.
The training focused on practical tools for wildfire detection, prevention, and suppression, while addressing the growing challenges posed by climate-driven extreme weather events. Instructors from the US Forest Service shared best practices drawn from decades of experience managing wildfires across the American West. Participants learned advanced techniques in fire behavior analysis, risk mapping, early warning systems, and coordinated emergency response.
“This kind of knowledge exchange is critical as Armenia faces more frequent and severe wildfires,” said Ruben Khachatryan, FPWC’s Founder and Director. “By working hand in hand with international partners, we are building local capacity to protect Armenia’s irreplaceable natural heritage.”
The training also underscored the importance of community involvement in forest conservation. Representatives of rural communities, who are often first responders when fires break out, received guidance on developing local fire prevention networks and integrating traditional ecological knowledge into modern fire management strategies.
As a long-time supporter of FPWC’s efforts to preserve Armenia’s biodiversity and cultural landscapes, the Wilderness and Culture Fund is honored to contribute to this growing partnership. Collaboration across borders and sectors is essential to addressing today’s complex environmental challenges.
“Forest fires know no boundaries,” said WCF Executive Director [insert name]. “By equipping Armenian communities with the tools and knowledge to protect their forests, we are fostering resilience that will benefit both people and nature.”
The Wilderness and Culture Fund remains committed to supporting FPWC and its partners in advancing forest landscape restoration, wildlife conservation, and climate adaptation across Armenia. Together, we are helping to ensure a sustainable future for the country’s forests and the generations who depend on them.