One of the world’s most famous volcanic regions – which, legend has it, is a short distance from the final resting place of Noah’s Ark – is home to one of the world’s most unique “Birch Forests.” Located in Türkiye’s far east – and just 8km west of its Iranian border – Little Ağrı has been, until recently, one of the world’s most dangerous terrorist hotspots.
Now, researchers from Igdur University’s Biodiversity Research and Application Center (BIYOMER) are working with members of the Turkish government’s Technological Research Council of Türkiye (the TUBITAK) to study 161 hectares of near “pristine” tree and plant species on the northern slope of the mountain.
According to Belkis Muca Yigit from BIYOMER’s Forestry Department, the researchers have already completed the first stage of forest observation: “We are now acquainted with the region and have studied the various plant species. In this way, we are shedding light on Igdir’s biodiversity.”
Ms Yigit said the region features birch trees, aspen, oak, juniper, rosehip, rowan, and other species: “Examining the area and its surroundings is crucial, along with expanding the supply of tree species suitable for the area. In that regard, we are working to guarantee the continuous presence of these forests in this area.”
Where is Ağrı?
A large satellite cone is located on the eastern flank of the much larger Mount Ararat—Europe’s largest volcanic mountain – and has become a popular mountaineering route for thousands of climbers travelling to Türkiye’s Far East.
Apart from its snow-capped peak, Ağrı draws tourists from both Europe and neighbouring Iran to admire the view or ski in areas at lower altitudes. According to Ersan Başar, head of the Turkish Mountaineering Federation, Ağrı has become one of Türkiye’s most popular attractions due to its connection to Noah’s Ark.
“It is the primary destination of all climbers, but unfortunately, terrorism forced its closure (to climbers) for a long time. Security operations in the past two years helped it open for tourism, and now we see thousands of people climbing Ağrı,” Başar told Anadolu Agency (AA) in 2022. Başar noted that the mountain is easy to access and listed the proximity of three airports, Ağrı, Iğdır and Van, as the main transportation hubs: “As for climbing, it is not very difficult for professional climbers, except for the usual challenges they face in high altitude.”
As for mountaineers, Basar said the Ağrı is extremely popular with Iranian climbers: “Mountaineering is very popular in Iran, and we receive more visitors from there,” he said. However, high interest has a downside, Başar said. “We need to focus on sustainable mountaineering now and protect the mountain. It is vital to manage pollution and keep the mountain clean.”
