Geopark planning in Racha on the example of several European countries and its perspectives

Author: Tamar Chichinadze
Keywords: Racha, Geopark, Geotourism, Perspectives
Annotation:

The project concerns geopark planning in Racha region. Categories of protected areas do not yet exist here. According to Georgian law, there are six categories of protected areas in Georgia, including the geopark Აr included. Geopark - this is a unique geological area, the main priorities of which are the protection and promotion of geological heritage, tourism Development, education, scientific research, high community involvement. Geological Park - The main criterion for creating a geopark is exactly that Choose a geological site with interesting stratigraphic forms, volcanic and glacial relief, canyons, lava flows, caves, closed mines, and dysfunctional quarries. Racha The region has all the geological and physical-geographical characteristics that exactly meet the criteria of the geopark. One of the main tasks of the geopark is to monitor climate change. In case of arranging a geopark in the region, Scientific observations will be made in the geopark, allowing scientists to observe climate dynamics. For example UNESCO Global Geoparks contains a scientifically significant network that shows how The Earth's climate has changed, as evidenced by the organic burial materials. Through the dissemination of knowledge and information, geoparks help raise awareness and increase mutual understanding of how We can join and confront the Earth’s climate change. One of the values ​​of Racha is hydro resources. Mountain fast and deep- Rocky rivers allow the development of rafting on rivers. There are about 50 highly mineralized water species in Racha (which Not purposefully mastered). The climatic-balneological resorts built on their basis, Utsera and Shovi, will become more in demand. Existing resorts will be developed and the foundation will be laid for the resort Exploring and mastering zones. In the case of the development of geotourism in the region, the demand for bottling and distribution of local mineral waters will increase. Is the most important attribute for a geopark Archaeological, historical-architectural monuments, museums, popularization of traditional cuisine (Khvanchkara, Rachuli Lori, Shkmeri, and customs, which will naturally contribute to the local population, Especially the employment of the younger generation. The main value of the project is the development of geotourism through sustainable use and the involvement of local people in employment, which will protect the region from depopulation (if the region identifies the precisely selected area as a result of the research).Mass migration began in the second half of the nineteenth century, the main reason for which is to this day There is a lack of agricultural land. Due to constant migration from the region, the country is experiencing aging). When planning a geopark, the population constantly feels the need to maintain the status of a geopark, which Increase their motivation for improvement skills, environment, international recognition and recognition. Racha limestone massif is considered to be an important area of ​​the geopark, and the highest point is 1700-2200 m above sea level. The massif is located in the karst zone of Georgia and is the largest in its distribution zone (approx. 590 km2), but the height Lags behind some of them. The typical karst policies of Zegverdia and Shaori, Kharistvali, Devi, Kvedrula and others are prevalent here. Karst lakes, night and wide waters, canyon valleys, doors, niches, "Devi Boilers", Karst Streams and more. The approximate depth of these forms is 1000-1200 meters. About 45 caves and gaps are registered in the territory of Racha limestone massif. Among them, 32 speleoduria were studied. Their length is 10 km and depth is 850 m. Proper selection of speleological objects for the geopark is important in the research process, which is one of the important criteria of the geopark. When planning a geopark, it is important to offer it to domestic tourists Mines or quarries. For example, the chord barite deposit, which is characterized by unique properties and can be said to be uncompetitive with its properties throughout the Caucasus. After the 1991 Racha-Imereti earthquake, Accord Barite deposit is closed. Geopark is a new theme not only in Georgia, but in the whole Caucasus. If arranged, it will be the first tourist area to attract tourists, mainly from the Caucasus. Geopack, as a very important project, should be recommended by the relevant state agencies such as the Ministry of Environment and Agriculture, the National Environment Agency, the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development. Ministry, Ministry of Regional Development and Infrastructure, as the geopark is of economic benefit to the region and the country.