Tusheti and its forests - a unique case of local governance in Georgia

Abstract

The Tusheti Protected Landscape (IUCN category V), together with the two other IUCN categories (Strict Nature Reserve - IUCN category I - and National Park - IUCN Category II), is a part of the Tusheti Protected Areas. The Tusheti Protected Landscape covers 31 518ha, of which 10% is forest. Tusheti Protected Landscape is unique within the protected areas of Georgia in that it is managed by the local selfgovernment, Akhmeta municipality. Tusheti Protected Areas were designated by the central government of Georgia in 2003.