Implementation period: 2003–2009 Organizers: International Crane Foundation (ICF), UNEP/GEF Partners: Environmental agencies in Russia, China, Iran, Kazakhstan The Siberian Crane Wetland Project was a multinational initiative aimed at conserving critical wetland sites along the migratory flyway of the endangered Siberian crane (Grus leucogeranus). The species’ migration spans over 5,000 km from breeding grounds in northern Russia to wintering areas in Iran and eastern China. The project focused on integrating habitat protection with transboundary cooperation, community engagement, and institutional strengthening.
Key components included wetland inventories, development of site management plans, environmental education, regional knowledge exchange, and enhanced monitoring frameworks under the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS).
Outcomes
Inventoried and mapped more than 16 priority wetlands across the flyway.
Developed long-term management plans for protected areas such as Kunovat Reserve (Russia), Naurzum and Korgalzhyn (Kazakhstan), Poyang Lake (China), and Fereydoon Kenar (Iran).
Launched education campaigns in over 20 communities and schools to raise awareness about cranes and wetland conservation.
Established a flyway-scale satellite tracking system and ecological monitoring programs for Siberian crane populations.
Strengthened international coordination and capacity-building, including cross-country workshops and conservation training.
Served as a model initiative under the Ramsar Convention and CMS for migratory species protection and habitat conservation.
