Yazd

Yazd ( ), formerly also known as Yezd, is the capital of Yazd Province, Iran. The city is located southeast of Esfahan. At the 2011 census, the population was 529,673, and it is currently the 15th largest city in Iran. Since 2017, the historical city of Yazd is recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Because of generations of adaptations to its desert surroundings, Yazd has a unique Persian architecture. It is nicknamed the "City of Windcatchers" ( "Shahr-e Badgirha") from its many examples. It is also very well known for its Zoroastrian fire temples, ab anbars (cisterns), qanats (underground channels), yakhchals (coolers), Persian handicrafts, handwoven cloth ("Persian termeh"), silk weaving, Persian cotton candy, and its time-honored confectioneries. Yazd is also known as City of Bicycles, because of its old history of bike riders, and the highest number of bicycles per capita in Iran. It is reported that bicycle culture in Iran originated in Yazd as a result of contact with European visitors and tourists in the last century.
Name.
"Yazd" means “pure” and “holy”; Yazd City means “City of the Holy [One, "i. e.", God].
History.
The area encompassing Yazd first started to gain prominence in the Late antiquity, namely under the Sasanians. Under Yazdegerd I (), a mint was established in Yazd (under the mint abbreviation of "YZ"), which demonstrates its increasing importance. According to the New Persian chronicle "Tarikh-i Yazd" ("History of Yazd") of 1441, Yazd was refounded by "Yazdegerd, son of Bahram", i.e. Yazdegerd II (). The word "yazd" means God. After the Arab conquest of Iran, many Zoroastrians migrated to Yazd from neighboring provinces. By paying a levy, Yazd was allowed to remain Zoroastrian even after its conquest, and Islam only gradually became the dominant religion in the city.
Because of its remote desert location and the difficulty of access, Yazd remained largely immune to large battles and the destruction and ravages of war. For instance, it was a haven for those fleeing from destruction in other parts of Persian Empire during the Mongol invasion. In 1272 it was visited by Marco Polo, who remarked on the city's fine silk-weaving industry. In the book "The Travels of Marco Polo", he described Yazd in the following way:
Yazd briefly served as the capital of the Muzaffarid Dynasty in the fourteenth century, and was unsuccessfully besieged in 1350–1351 by the Injuids under Shaikh Abu Ishaq. The Friday (or Congregation) mosque, arguably the city's greatest architectural landmark, as well as other important buildings, date to this period. During the Qajar dynasty (18th century AD) it was ruled by the Bakhtiari Khans.
Under the rule of the Safavid (16th century), some people migrated from Yazd and settled in an area that is today on the Iran-Afghanistan border. The settlement, which was named Yazdi, was located in what is now Farah City in the province of the same name in Afghanistan. Even today, people from this area speak with an accent very similar to that of the people of Yazd.
One of the notable things about Yazd is its family-centered culture. According to official statistics from Iran's National Organization for Civil Registration, Yazd is among the three cities with the lowest divorce rates in Iran.
Demographics.
Language and ethnic groups.
The majority of the people of Yazd are Persians. They speak Persian with a Yazdi accent, which is different from the Persian accent of Tehran.
Religion.
The majority of people in Yazd are Muslims. There is also a sizable population of Zoroastrians in the city. In 2013, Sepanta Niknam was elected to the city council of Yazd and became the first Zoroastrian councillor in Iran.
There was once a relatively large Jewish-Yazdi community, however, after the creation of Israel, many have moved there for varying reasons. Former president of Israel Moshe Katsav is an example.
The Pir-e-Naraki sanctuary is one of the important pilgrimage destinations for Zoroastrians, where an annual congregation is held and frequent visits are made during the year; it is now also a famous tourist spot.
The story of the last Persian prince to come to Yazd before the arrival of Islam adds to its importance. Such a transformation has occurred several times.
Several other city traditions are the Muslim parades and gatherings, which are mainly processions called "azadari" held to commemorate the events experienced by the main Islamic martyrs and other important figures. These huge public gatherings created a series of spaces which, since most are near important urban monuments, are used at other times as hubs from which visitors can tour the main spots in the city .
Population.
According to the Iranian Census of 2011 the population of Yazd is 486,152 people from 168,528 families, which includes 297,546 men and 285,136 women.
Historical sites.
Yazd is an important centre of Persian architecture. Because of its climate, it has one of the largest networks of "qanats" (underground water supply systems) in the world, and Yazdi "qanat" makers are considered the most skilled in Iran.
To deal with the extremely hot summers, many old buildings in Yazd have magnificent wind towers and large underground areas.
The city is also home to prime examples of "yakhchals", which were used to store ice retrieved from glaciers in the nearby mountains. Yazd is also one of the largest cities built almost entirely out of adobe.
Yazd's heritage as a center of Zoroastrianism is also important. There is a Tower of Silence on the outskirts, and the city has an "ateshkadeh" which holds a fire that has been kept alight continuously since 470 AD. Zoroastrians make up a significant minority of the population, around 20,000–40,000 or 5 to 10 percent.
The 11th-century brick mausoleum and shrine Davāzdah Imām is the oldest dated building in the city.
Built in 12th century and still in use, Jame Mosque of Yazd is an example of the finest Persian mosaics and excellent architecture. Its minarets are the highest in the country.
Geography.
Climate.
Yazd has a hot desert climate (Köppen climate classification "BWh"). It is the driest major city in Iran, with a yearly precipitation amount of and only 23 days of precipitation, with summer temperatures very frequently above in blazing sunshine with no humidity. Even at night the temperatures in summer are rather uncomfortable. In the winter, the days remain mild and sunny, but in the morning the thin air and low cloudiness cause cold temperatures that can sometimes fall well below .
Economy.
Always known for the quality of its silk and carpets, Yazd today is one of Iran's industrial centers for textiles. There is also a considerable ceramics and construction materials industry and unique confectionery and jewellery industries. A significant portion of the population is also employed in other industries including agriculture, dairy, metal works, and machine manufacturing. There are a number of companies involved in the growing information technology industry, mainly manufacturing primary materials such as cables and connectors. Currently Yazd is the home of the largest manufacturer of fibre optics in Iran.
Yazd's confectioneries have a tremendous following throughout Iran and have been a source of tourism for the city. Confectioners workshops ("khalifehs", or experts) keep their recipes a guarded secret, and there are many that have remained a private family business for many generations. Baklava, ghotab and pashmak are the most popular sweets made in the city.
In 2000 the Yazd Water Museum opened; it features exhibits of water storage vessels and historical technologies related to water.
Yazd has expanded its industrial fields since the 1980s. With at least three main industrial areas each containing over 70 different factories, Yazd has become one of the most technologically advanced cities of Iran.
Transportation.
In addition to its connection with major Iranian cities via Iranian Railways, Yazd is served by the Shahid Sadooghi Airport.
Education.
The University of Yazd was established in 1988. It has a college of architecture specializing in traditional Persian art and architecture. Yazd and its nearby towns contain the following institutes of higher education:
Twin towns – sister cities.
Yazd is twinned with:


Guishan Island (Yilan)

Guishan Island / Gueishan Island or Steep Island or Turtle Island (), also known as Kweishan Island or Kweishan Tao, is an island in the Pacific Ocean, part of Toucheng Township, Yilan County, Taiwan and located east of port of Kengfang Fishery Harbor. The island's name is derived from the resemblance of the topography of the island to that of a turtle. There is a smaller island south of Gueishan Island called Gueiluan Island) (Kweiluan Tao, Kiran-to; , ). The island is a dormant volcano that last erupted on 1785.
History.
The local population, consisting mainly of fishermen, was relocated in 1977 due to the hardships associated with living on the island. Between 1977 and 2000 it became the site of a military base, and currently it is managed as a tourist destination and natural conservation area. There are restrictions for visitors due to environmental protection. In 2000, the island was officially opened to tourists as a maritime ecological park.
On May 13, 2016, President Ma Ying-jeou visited the island.
In December 2016 until February 2017, the island was closed for environmental protection reasons.
Geology.
The island is the top of an andesite stratovolcano which rises from the seafloor. It is the only active volcano in Taiwan, displaying active fumaroles and solfataras. It has an area of , and the highest point reaches above sea level.
Ecology.
Endemic species of crab, "" feeds on sulfur and lives around underwater hot springs of the island. Surrounding waters support rich ecosystem that attracts the top predators of ocean; cetaceans. This allows whale watching as one of major attractions in local tourism, targeting mostly smaller toothed whales such as pygmy sperm whales, false killer whales, and dolphins while larger whales such as sperm whales and humpback may be observed less frequently.
Head Turning of the Turtle Mountain.
From different views at different locations of Yilan County, the shape of Gueishan Island is quite different. Also the shape of the turtle's head is different; from Northeast Coastal Areas of Toucheng Township such as Shihcheng and Dasi, the shape is close to the head of a turtle, while from Luodong and Wujie Townships, the shape is triangular. The reason for this is the curvy shape of the seashore of Yilan, circling the very island. There is hence the term "Head Turning of the Turtle Mountain" (龜山轉頭).
Visiting the island.
Before going to the island, visitor numbers have to be reviewed to see which day is available for registration.
The application must be completed and shipping agreed with local ferry owners at least one week prior to the visiting date, there is also another application form for going to the highest point of the island, which is often restricted.


Cocora Valley

The Cocora valley () is a valley in the department of Quindío in the country of Colombia. It is located in the Central Cordillera of the Andean mountains. "Cocora" was the name of a Quimbayan princess, daughter of the local chief Acaime, and means "star of water" ().
The valley is part of the Los Nevados National Natural Park, incorporated into the existing national park by the Colombian government in 1985. It is the main location where the national tree of Colombia, the Quindío wax palm ("Ceroxylon quindiuense") can be found, as well as a wide variety of other flora and fauna (some endangered), all of which are protected under the park's national status.
Location.
The Cocora valley is located on the upper reaches of the Quindío River, the main river of the namesake department, located at an altitude between 1800 and 2400 meters. The valley is approximately 24 km north-east of the departmental capital Armenia, and accessed via a junction from the Armenia-Pereira highway, running via Boquia to the town of Salento. Vehicles (either private cars or jeep taxis from Salento) can then travel 11 km further on up into the valley as far as "Cocora", a collection of campsites and restaurants - other parts of the valley can only be accessed either by hiking on the numerous trails or on horseback.
The Cocora valley is part of a larger national park, the Los Nevados National Natural Park (). The park covers an area of 58,000 hectares (580 km2) in total, including the north-eastern part of Quindío.
History of the valley's protection.
To prevent exploitation of the wax palm and the threat against the endemic species dependent on the palm, mainly due to the celebrations of Palm Sunday, the government of Belisario Betancur proposed the creation of a wildlife sanctuary and the preservation of the wax palm as the national symbol of Colombia. Law 61 of 1985 was ratified on 16 September 1985 with the following terms:
Climate.
The Cocora valley is characterized by its temperate weather, due to its altitude. The prevailing westerly winds from the Pacific Ocean are stopped by the Andean mountains, creating a humid environment favorable to the growth of cloud forest at higher altitudes: rain falls almost daily. Temperatures vary dramatically, even within one day. The average annual temperature is , with a maximum of and a minimum of .
Köppen-Geiger climate classification system classifies its climate as subtropical highland (Cfb).
Flora and fauna.
The valley is the location of the majority of the remaining populations of the wax palm ("Ceroxylon quindiuense"). Other flora and fauna that may be found in the valley include
Fauna.
3 km north-east of "Cocora" up a dirt track is the finca "La Montaña" where there is a nursery for the wax palm.
5 km east of "Cocora" along a trail that may be accessed on foot or on horseback is the Acaime Natural Reserve. The reserve contains 6 to 8 species of hummingbirds as well as other birds and wildlife, as well as a visitor center and restaurant.
Tourism.
The Cocora valley is a very popular tourist destination in Colombia. The majority of visitors make day visits from Salento, or come for the extensive camping and hiking opportunities in the valley and the national park. Other common activities are bird watching, mountain biking, horse riding, rafting, scenic flights, and swimming in the rivers. The local restaurants specialize in cooking locally farmed freshwater trout in several ways, mainly baked and served in a variety of sauces with "patacones" (plantain fritters).


Fairy Meadows National Park

Fairy Meadows (), named by German climbers (German "Märchenwiese", “fairy tale meadows”) and locally known as Joot, is a grassland near one of the base camp sites of the Nanga Parbat, located in Diamer District, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. At an altitude of about above sea level, it serves as the launching point for trekkers summiting on the Rakhiot face of the Nanga Parbat. In 1995, the Government of Pakistan declared Fairy Meadows a National Park.
Location.
Fairy Meadows is approachable by a fifteen kilometer-long jeepable trek starting from Rakhiot bridge on Karakoram Highway to the village Tato. The dangerous and narrow gravel mountain road from the bridge to the village is only open to locals, who provide transportation to visitors. In 2013, the World Health Organization declared it the second-deadliest road on the planet. From Tato onward, it takes about three to four hours hiking by a five kilometer trek to Fairy Meadows. The grassland is located in the Rakhiot valley, at one end of the Rakhiot glacier which originates from the Nanga Parbat and feeds a stream that finally falls in the River Indus. Since 1992, locals have operated camping sites in the area.
Tourism.
The six-month tourist season at Fairy Meadows starts in April and continues until the end of September. Tourists lodge at the camping site spread over , known as "Raikot Serai". The site of Fairy Meadows, though partially developed, generates about PKR 17 million revenue from tourism, mainly by providing food, transportation and accommodation services. The road to Fairy Meadows was built by Brigadier M. Aslam Khan (M.C, H.J, F.K), First Commander Gilgit Scouts, which today employs the locals. The local community stopped the extraction of timber to conserve the forest and promote tourism in the area. The main attraction of this place other than the meadows itself is the view of Nanga Parbat Mountain. Tourists usually hike to the base camp of the mountain from Fairy Meadows.
Flora and fauna.
The grassland is surrounded by thick alpine forest. The high altitude area and north-facing slopes mostly consist of coniferous forest having "Pinus wallichiana", "Picea smithiana" and "Abies pindrow" trees, while in the high altitude areas with little sunlight are birch and willow dwarf shrubs. The southern slopes are concentrated with juniper and scrubs, namely "Juniperus excelsa" and "J. turkesticana". In the low altitudes, the major plant found is "Artemisia", with yellow ash, stone oaks and "Pinus gerardiana" spread among it. Research has suggested similarities between "Pinus wallichiana" found in the meadows with a sister species, "Pinus peuce", found in the Balkans, based on leaf size.
Among mammals, a few brown bears are found in the region, with their numbers declining. Some musk deer, regarded as an endangered species, are also present.
Gallery.
Hover the mouse click or tap on the following images to see their captions.


Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge and Management Area

The Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge and Management Area, established in 1994, is a collection of wildlife refuges and habitats situated along the Patoka River in Gibson and Pike Counties in southwestern Indiana. It consists mostly of the main body refuge along nearly of the river's course from just north of Francisco, Indiana to just west of Velpen, Indiana. Other areas include the Cane Ridge Wildlife Management Area managed by Duke Energy and located immediately south of Gibson Lake and the Gibson Generating Station in northwestern Gibson County, east of the main body. The refuge is authorized for . As of 2010, are owned by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Many species of birds nest or spend the winter in these areas, including the bald eagle and endangered least tern.
In 2012, tier 1 of the Interstate 69 Project was built through this area immediately west of Oakland City in the strip long been set aside when the original Interstate was built, using a bridge to lessen the environmental impact. Originally Interstate 69 was to go along a route similar to the current construction route. This has prompted some disturbances by the group Earth First!, including "evicting" the project offices in Oakland City.


Texan by Nature

Texan by Nature, originally formed in 2011 as Taking Care of Texas, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit focusing on uniting business and conservation. Texan by Nature is headquartered at Austin, Texas.
History.
Texan by Nature was founded by former First Lady Laura Bush in 2011. Its stated mission is to, "align the broad interests of conservation groups with the resources of businesses, health care institutions, schools, the scientific community, and faith-based organizations [to] ... collectively create a positive impact for Texas’ economy, people, and land for generations to come".
Programs.
Conservation Wrangler Program.
Each year, Texan by Nature selects innovative projects from across Texas. These projects must be science based, with measurable outcomes and data.
2020 Conservation Wranglers.
Exploration Green Conservancy -
Respect Big Bend
Trinity Park Conservancy - Trinity River Conservation Corps
Paso del Norte Trail
Texas Brigades
Texas Children in Nature
2019 Conservation Wranglers
Certified Water Program
Trinity River Paddling Trail
Rio Grande Valley Reef Restoration
Oyster Shell Recycling Program
Grassland Restoration Incentive Program
Texas Prairie Wetlands Program
2018 Conservation Wranglers.
Building Conservation Trust – Oyster Reef Restoration
Building Conservation Trust (the National Habitat Program of Coastal Conservation Association) and Coastal Conservation Association Texas restored oyster habitat in Sabine Lake.
Constructed wetlands
Tarrant Regional Water District, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, North Texas Municipal Water District, the John Bunker Sands Wetland Center, the Rosewood Corporation, and Alan Plummer Associates partnered to create over 4,000 acres of wetlands to showcase a sustainable approach for natural water filtration. The wetlands provide water supply to over 3.8 million people in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, and provide habitat for local wildlife.
Cool schools
Dallas Independent School District partnered with the Texas Trees Foundation to reduce urban heat at Dallas elementary schools. Eighty trees are planted per school with the goal to maintain a tree canopy cover, create outdoor learning environments, provide STEM-based curriculum, and to enhance experiential learning.
Dark Skies Initiative
Working with the Permian Basin Petroleum Association and the Texas Oil & Gas Association, McDonald Observatory of the University of Texas published a "Recommended Lighting Practices" guide. They have also partnered with the Apache Corporation to produce a video.
The practices reduce light pollution, have greater cost efficiency, and improve visibility and increase worker safety in the oil field.
El Carmen Land & Conservation Co.
El Carmen Land and Conservation Company, owned by CEMEX USA and Mr. Josiah Austin, is working on desert restoration and habitat enhancement in the Trans-Pecos.
Texas Playa Conservation Initiative
The Texas Playa Conservation Initiative is working to restore the playas in the Panhandle.
Partners for this project include Texas Parks and Wildlife, Playa Lakes Joint Venture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and Ducks Unlimited.
2017 Conservation Wranglers
Lake Livingston Friends of Reservoirs]
Lower Rio Grande Valley Learning Landscapes Collaborative
2014 Conservation Wranglers
Texas State Bison Herd
Texas Botanical Gardens and Native American Interpretive Center
Bracken Bat Cave
TxN Project Certification.
The Texan by Nature Project Certification provides Texan employers, organizations, and individuals with recognition of their conservation efforts.
Symposia Series.
South-Central Monarch Symposium
The South-Central Monarch Symposium took place May 31-June 1, 2017 at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Over 200 monarch conservation partners attended the event. Over 50 speakers presented their research, ranging from milkweed availability, distribution, and resources to private landowner perspectives.
The goals of the symposium included consolidating data on the monarch butterfly migration and identifying gaps in current scientific understanding and habitat management practices.
On July 18, 2018, Data and Project Manager Amy Snelgrove provided testimony of the findings from the symposium to the Texas House of Representatives' Committee on Culture Recreation & Tourism.
On August 10, 2018, the South-Central Monarch Conservation Community became live. This is a community to bring monarch researchers and conservation professionals together to recover the butterfly throughout Texas and Oklahoma.
Topics include:
A Natural Connection: Exploring Positive Outcomes in Health and Healing Through Nature
Texan by Nature co-hosted the symposium with Houston Methodist to discuss and identify gaps in the science between the mechanisms in nature that produce positive physiological and psychological health and healing benefits. Top researchers, physicians, and policymakers gathered to share their knowledge on the connections between health and nature and discussed their findings.
On May 2, 2018, a partnership between Texan by Nature, Houston Methodist Hospital, and Texas A&M University System was announced to form the Center for Health and Nature in Houston, Texas. Two research projects are currently being developed:
The Center for Health and Nature is planning for its 2019 Symposium for February 13, 2019.
Conservation Wrangler Summit.
Texan by Nature and Mrs. Bush hosted the first Conservation Wrangler Summit in 2018 to celebrate the best Conservation Wrangler projects. The now yearly event draws leaders from across Texas to share insights and efforts making impact in areas of conservation and sustainability.
Texan by Nature 20 (TxN20).
In 2019 Texan by Nature partnered with Texas Monthly to rank the top 20 companies in Texas working to push conservation forward. Over 2,000 Texas-based companies were evaluated by a 14 point grading system resulting in the top 20 businesses committed to conservation efforts.
"“The TxN 20 is an effort to recognize innovation and best practices in conservation coming from Texas-based businesses,"" Texan by Nature CEO and President, Joni Carswell.
Deep in the Heart.
Texan by Nature is a primary sponsor of this wild life documentary that showcases Texas conservation and ecological issues through the eyes of wildlife. Deep in the Heart is a project led by Ben Masters of Fin and Fur Films.
Conservation Partners.
Description of Conservation Partners
List of Conservation Partners
Board Members.
2020
Laura Bush, Founder
Neal Wilkins, PH.D., Chairman
Cynthia Pickett-Stevenson, Vice Chairman
Tamara Trial, Secretary
Regan Gammon, Treasurer
Katharine Armstron
Marc Boom
Tina Buford
Joe Crafton
Ray Ingle
Elaine Magruder
Adair Margo
Carolyn Miller
Greg Schildwachter, PH.D.
Leadership.
In 2017 Joni Carswell was hired to lead Texan by Nature replacing interim director Matt Wagner.


Ngo Mei Chau

Crescent Island or Ngo Mei Chau () is an island of Hong Kong, located southeast of Crooked Island (Kat O) and northeast of Double Island (Wong Wan Chau). Administratively, it is part of North District.
Conservation.
Crescent Island has been part of the Plover Cove (Extension) Country Park since 1979.


Zalishchyky Park

Zalishchyky Park () or Lordly Park () officially called Lower Park () is an urban park/natural monument or "zakaznik" () located on a natural terrace on the left bank of the Dniester River in southern Zalishchyky, in the Ternopil Oblast of western Ukraine. The park is home to more than 45 unique and exotic species of fauna, including the Maidenhair tree, red oak, European horse-chesnut, Amur cork tree, and Tartarian honeysuckle.
Established in the late 19th century, the park remains one of the oldest operational parks in the Ternopil Oblast. The park has been maintained by Ukraine's Nature Preservation Fund since 1972.
Together with the Zalishchyky Central Park, () the park is part of the Dniester Canyon National nature park.


National Wilderness Preservation System

The National Wilderness Preservation System (NWPS) of the United States protects federally managed wilderness areas designated for preservation in their natural condition. Activity on formally designated wilderness areas is coordinated by the National Wilderness Preservation System. Wilderness areas are managed by four federal land management agencies: the National Park Service, the U.S. Forest Service, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Bureau of Land Management. The term "wilderness" is defined as "an area where the earth and community of life are untrammeled by man, where man himself is a visitor who does not remain" and "an area of undeveloped Federal land retaining its primeval character and influence, without permanent improvements or human habitation, which is protected and managed so as to preserve its natural conditions." As of 2021, there are 803 designated wilderness areas, totaling , or about 4.5% of the area of the United States.
History.
During the 1950s and 1960s, as the American transportation system was on the rise, concern for clean air and water quality began to grow. A conservation movement began to take place with the intent of establishing designated wilderness areas. Howard Zahniser created the first draft of the Wilderness Act in 1956. It took nine years and 65 rewrites before the Wilderness Act was finally passed in 1964. The Wilderness Act of 1964 (Public Law 88-577), which established the NWPS, was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson on September 3, 1964. The Wilderness Act mandated that the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service review all federal lands under their jurisdiction for wilderness areas to include in the NWPS. The first national forest wilderness areas were established by the Wilderness Act itself. The Great Swamp in New Jersey became the first National Wildlife Refuge with formally designated wilderness in 1968. Wilderness areas in national parks followed, beginning with the designation of wilderness in part of Craters of the Moon National Monument in Idaho in 1970.
A dramatic spike in acreage added to the wilderness system in 1980 was due in large part to the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act, signed into law by President Jimmy Carter on December 2, 1980. A smaller spike in 1984 came with the passage of many bills establishing national forest wilderness areas identified by the Forest Service's Roadless Area Review and Evaluation (RARE) process. The Bureau of Land Management was not required to review its lands for inclusion in the NWPS until after October 21, 1976, when the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 was signed into law; designation of wilderness areas on BLM lands began in 1978. Over 200 wilderness areas have been created within Bureau of Land Management administered lands since then, consisting of approximately in September 2015.
As of August 2008, 704 separate wilderness areas, encompassing , had become part of the National Wilderness Preservation System. On March 30, 2009, President Barack Obama signed into law the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009. The legislation designated an additional in nine states as wilderness, representing the largest expansion of wilderness lands since 1984. The John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act of 2019 added another in 43 new and expanded wilderness areas.
Wilderness areas.
On federal lands in the United States, Congress may designate an area as wilderness under the provisions of the Wilderness Act of 1964. Multiple agencies, including the Bureau of Land Management, the National Park Service, the Fish and Wildlife Service, and the U.S. Forest Service, are responsible for the submission of new areas that fit the criteria to become wilderness to Congress. Congress then reviews these cases on a state by state basis and determines which areas and how much land in each area will become part of the WPS. There have been multiple occasions in which Congress designated more federal land than had been recommended by the nominating agency. Whereas the Wilderness Act stipulated that a wilderness area must be "administered for the use and enjoyment of the American people in such a manner as will leave them unimpaired for future use and enjoyment as wilderness", the Eastern Wilderness Areas Act of 1975, which added 16 national forest areas to the NWPS, allowed for the inclusion of areas that had been severely modified by human interference.
The Wilderness Act provides criteria for lands being considered for wilderness designation. Though there are some exceptions, the following conditions must be present for an area to be included in the NWPS: (1) the land is under federal ownership and management, (2) the area consists of at least five thousand acres of land, (3) human influence is "substantially unnoticeable," (4) there are opportunities for solitude and recreation, and (5) the area possesses "ecological, geological, or other features of scientific, educational, scenic, or historical value."
Wilderness areas are subject to specific management restrictions; human activities are limited to non-motorized recreation (such as backpacking, camping, hunting, fishing, horseback riding, etc.), scientific research, and other non-invasive activities. During these activities, patrons are asked to abide by the Leave No Trace policy. This policy sets guidelines for using the wilderness responsibly, and leaving the area as it was before usage. These guidelines include: Packing all trash out of the wilderness, using a stove as opposed to a fire, camping at least from trails or water sources, staying on marked trails, and keeping group size small. When closely observed, the Leave No Trace ethos ensures that wilderness areas remain untainted by human interaction. In general, the law prohibits logging, mining, motorized or mechanized vehicles (including bicycles), road-building, and other forms of development in wilderness areas, though pre-existing mining claims and grazing ranges are permitted through grandfather clauses in the Wilderness Act. Wilderness areas fall into IUCN protected area management category Ia (strict nature preserves) or Ib (wilderness areas).
A special exemption to the rule against mechanized equipment is made for wilderness areas in Alaska: limited use of motorized vehicles and construction of cabins and aquaculture are permitted. These exemptions were allowed due to the large amount of wilderness in Alaska and the concerns of subsistence users, including Alaska Natives.
Wilderness areas are parts of national parks, wildlife refuges, national forests, and BLM lands; some units are managed by different agencies. Initially, the NWPS included 34 areas protecting in the national forests. As of 2019, there are 803 areas in the NWPS, preserving . This is approximately 4.5% of the entire United States, though only about 2.7% of the 48 contiguous states. However, most of that acreage is located in a handful of states. The states with the highest number of wildernesses are California, Arizona, Nevada, Alaska, and Oregon. However, when measured in acres the list changes dramatically, as Alaska contains many of the largest areas protected under the act. In terms of total acres, Alaska, California, Arizona, Idaho, and Washington are the top five states for wilderness, containing almost 80 percent of the acreage in the system. Wilderness totals in most eastern states are modest, with the exceptions of Florida and Minnesota. Wilderness areas exist in every state except Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Kansas, Maryland, and Rhode Island.Most U.S. wilderness areas are in national forests, but the largest amount of wilderness land is administered by the National Park Service. The largest contiguous wilderness complex in the United States is the Noatak and Gates of the Arctic Wildernesses in Alaska at . The largest wilderness area outside Alaska is the Death Valley Wilderness in southeastern California. The smallest area protected by the WPS is the Pelican Island Wilderness in northern Florida, which measures just total. The smallest area preserved in the system was formerly the Rocks and Islands Wilderness in Northern California at , but after a reassessment by the Bureau of Land Management in 2006 it was officially expanded to .
International efforts.
On November 7, 2009, an agreement between the United States, Canada, and Mexico entitled the "Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation for Wilderness Conservation" was made. This agreement created a new entity, the North American Intergovernmental Committee on Cooperation for Wilderness and Protected Areas Conservation, that would streamline the process for open communication between international agencies for the purpose of wilderness preservation. This committee was formed to gain insight on the benefits of wilderness preservation, establish open channels of communication between international agencies, and examine the cultural differences and similarities behind preservation efforts in each country. Within the U.S. system, all of the agencies responsible for wilderness preservation will work in cooperation with their international counterparts to determine the future of both the U.S. system and North American preservation efforts as a whole.
Wildlife preservation.
One of the major goals of the Wilderness Preservation System is to provide undeveloped habitats for threatened or endangered species. Many of the species found in the United States are represented in wilderness areas. There are 261 basic ecosystems in the U.S., and 157 of them are represented in the system. With 60% of all ecosystems somewhat protected by the NWPS, much of the wildlife in the U.S. also has an area in which to exist without significant human interaction.
In late 2011, a full wilderness review was requested of the Arctic Refuge Coastal Plain in Alaska. One of the major qualifications for this area to be considered as a possible wilderness area was its diverse wildlife population, many of which are on the endangered species list. In this potential wilderness area alone, whales, seals, wolves, polar bears, grizzly bears, muskoxen, caribou, and over 200 species of migratory birds call this one area home for at least part of the year. This vast assortment of flora and fauna is a major consideration for addition into the wilderness preservation system.
Laws and policies.
Thousands of laws and policies have helped shape and manage the National Wilderness Preservation System in the United States. The following Acts of Congress either directly affect the wilderness system or help influence wilderness management.
State-level counterparts.
Some state and tribal governments also designate wilderness areas under their own authority and local laws. These are not federal areas, and the exact nature of protection may differ from federal laws. Some U.S. states have created wilderness preservation programs modeled on the NWPS.


Pimachiowin Aki

Pimachiowin Aki ( ) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the boreal forest that covers parts of Manitoba and Ontario. The site is more than in area, and includes ancestral lands of four First Nations including Poplar River First Nation, Little Grand Rapids First Nation, Pauingassi First Nation, and Bloodvein First Nation. The area also includes the Manitoba Provincial Wilderness Park of Atikaki Provincial Park and the Ontario Woodland Caribou Provincial Park. The World Heritage Site's original proposal started with the signing of the Protected Areas and First Nation Resource Stewardship Accord in 2002. The name means "land that gives life" in Ojibwe ().
Benefits.
The Pimachiowin Aki partnership believes there are many benefits to a UNESCO World Heritage site. Communities near UNESCO sites around the world have developed a sense of pride in protecting such unique and special places, and have realized local economic development and employment opportunities. Increased support and help from other organizations, governments, businesses and volunteers to manage the site, and more say over how the land is protected and managed for the future are other potential benefits.
History.
Government support.
Manitoba Hydro initially planned a major hydro wire route through the proposed area called Bipole III. Just days before his retirement from office, Premier Gary Doer announced that the government would donate $10 million to a trust fund for a UNESCO World Heritage site on the east side of Lake Winnipeg. The NDP claimed that an east side Bipole III route would jeopardise the UNESCO site and claimed that a heritage site would benefit First Nations communities more. The NDP proposed a longer, more expensive, alternate line through the west of Manitoba to preserve the environmental integrity of the east side and to support the UNESCO site.
World Heritage Site Status.
In 2004, Parks Canada on behalf of the federal government added the project to Canada’s tentative list of potential World Heritage Sites, under criteria (v), (vii), (ix), and (x). The site was submitted for consideration in 2013. The World Heritage Committee deferred inscription to give the nominators time to improve certain aspects of the bid, while also saying that the committee needed to improve the nomination process for mixed sites as there were currently structural problems in the process that made approving mixed nominations difficult. In 2016, following modification to the bid, focusing it on the Ojibwe cultural tradition of (keeping the land), the committee was set to inscribe the property on the list. However, Canada requested and received a deferral after the Pikangikum First Nation in Ontario withdrew its support. In 2018, the World Heritage Committee inscribed the site on the UNESCO World Heritage List at its 42nd session in Manama, Bahrain, with the participation of four of the five original First Nations.


Maiko National Park

Maiko National Park is a national park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It lies in one of the most remote forest areas of the country and covers . The park is divided into three sectors, straddling the states of Nord Kivu, Province Orientale and Maniema. Three of the country's spectacular endemic animals occur here: the Grauer's gorilla, the okapi, and the Congo peafowl. Maiko is also an important site for the conservation of the African forest elephant, eastern chimpanzee and the endemic aquatic genet.
Creation.
In 1949, the Belgian colonial administration created the Bakumu Hunting Reserve (Bakumu, meaning "The Kumus", the native tribe in the region) on an area that would later encompass the boundaries of the Park as we know it today. The original plans for the area is believed to have aimed at preventing the exploitation of mineral resources rather the protection of the nature and the wildlife. On November 20 of 1970, the Presidential Decree no 70-312 which is bound to the law that had created the ICCN previous year, was signed into force by Joseph Désiré Mobutu. This document asserted the Maiko National Park to be a full-fledged nature protection area.
The rebel problem.
The roadless and inaccessible nature of the region made it ideal for some Simba rebels to retreat after their defeat in 1964. Ever since, they have been making a meager living by poaching on wildlife and controlling illegal mining activities inside of Maiko. The presence of the Simba also stems from the inability of the governing bodies to follow the compensatory measures required by the decree of 1970. This precarious security situation have made it difficult for the rangers to patrol the Park, especially after the ICCN was coerced by the Congolese army into guiding their attacks towards the Simba. Moreover, conservation work has also been hampered by the presence of rebels, culminating in capture and detainment of several survey crews between 2003 and 2005. At least three other rebels groups are known to be active in different parts of the park, among which the Rwandan Interahamwe in the east. Put together, these menaces leave absolutely no control over the park area by the ICCN.
International conservation efforts.
The first thorough exploration of the Maiko dates back to 1989, when the Wildlife Conservation Society, backed by the ICCN (then ZICN) and supported by the World Bank, the European Community and the WWF, moved into the area and surveyed about 950 km of transect. WCS further surveyed the North Sector in 2005. The Dian Fossey Gorilla fund conducted the first surveys of the southern sector of the park for over a decade in 2005, and documented a gorilla population more widespread than previously detected from previous studies.
WCS surveyed an additional block in the South Sector in 2006. These surveys, combined revealed that Maiko is highly threatened yet supports an important reservoir of endemic and rare species.
A more recent survey focussed on the forests west and south of the park in 2010 revealed that threats had intensified since 2005 and also documented the extinction of one of the new gorilla subpopulations documented in the 2005 surveys. All observations point out to the intense hunting pressure caused by miners and the widespread use of guns as serious threats to the remaining animal populations.
A new approach to conservation has been the implementation of compensation measures for Simbas willing to leave the Park. In 2010, FFI initiated the construction of health centers and schools in villages falling inside the zone of influence of the Simbas. The same year FZS launched an ambitious project aiming at turning the Simbas problem around by recruiting some of them as park rangers and allowing a "de facto" social reintegration which would directly benefit nature conservation in Maiko.


Chipangali

Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to the rescue and care of orphaned, injured, abandoned, abused or confiscated wild animals in southern Africa. It is located in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.
Mission.
Wherever possible, rescued animals and birds are rehabilitated and returned to the wild. If safe release into their natural habitat is not possible, animals are cared for and kept for educational purposes and zoological study. In the case of endangered species, captive breeding programs may also be undertaken.
Since 1973, Chipangali has been a haven for wild animals which have little hope for survival in the wild – creatures which have been orphaned, abandoned, injured, born in captivity or brought up unsuccessfully as pets. It is often the last refuge for those brought in sick or injured, and increasingly it is a sanctuary for confiscated animals.
Chipangali has been featured in countless documentaries and is now world-renowned for its pioneering work and is famed as one of Africa's largest and most successful wildlife rehabilitation/release centres.
The Orphanage runs a Volunteer program, the Wildlife Experience Programme, which encourages young people from anywhere in the world to come and gain hands-on experience with caring for wild animals.
History.
The wildlife Orphanage was established in 1973 by ex-game ranger Vivian Wilson and his wife Paddy (now late), and its primary function is to offer a home to orphaned, abandoned and sick wild animals. Chipangali is not a zoo.
Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage is a registered Welfare Organization (38/77) in Zimbabwe.
The word Chipangali comes from the Chinyanja language in eastern Zambia where Viv Wilson originally began his career with the Zambia Government as a tsetse-fly control operator. It is here that the whole concept of Chipangali was born and derived. The word means ‘open friendly country’.
Chipangali founder Viv Wilson and his wife Paddy retired from the active side of running the Orphanage over ten years ago, in order to devote more time to urgent wildlife research projects. Viv has been the leading instigator of several unique projects, such a ten year survey of the duikers of Africa which culminated in the 800 page masterpiece named "Duikers of Africa, Masters of the African Forest Floor". Recently Viv has expanded his research activities to include a survey of the leopard and cheetah of Zimbabwe, the biodiversity of the Matobo National Park and the formation of the CRI (Carnivore Research Institute)
Patrons.
Her Royal Highness, Diana, Princess of Wales was Chipangali's patron from 1983 until her death, when the Princess Diana Trust took over the role. In addition, the conservation activist and ex-actress, Stefanie Powers is a patron and Ambassador for Chipangali in the USA.
Exhibits.
From the entrance, to the left a visitor walks through the enclosures of the mammals. Here you view through a fence a bunch of sad animals, usually feeding on fruits and vegetables. And to the right there is the Barry Wilson Aviary, dedicated to the late son of Chipangali founders. The aviary is home to flamingos, peacocks, eagles, owls, and other different types of birds. Then there is the Carnivores section with a number of lions and a few leopards. In the carnivores section you can view the lions and leopards at a very close range but they will be enclosed in a fence. You can also get a better view of the lions from the Judith lookout. There is also an enclosure for monkeys and there are many beautiful monkeys in the cages. Other exhibits include fetus of different animals and snakes.


Francis Lelo

Francis K. Lelo is a Kenyan academic, researcher and academic administrator. He is Assoc Professor Environmental StudiesEgerton University, He has also served as the Vice Chancellor Laikipia University and as ag. Principal at Kisii University College before transferring to Laikipia University. He is an expert in community mobilization and is well known for his efforts in environmental conservation.


Sierra de las Quijadas National Park

The Sierra de las Quijadas National Park () is a national park located in the northwestern part of the Argentine province of San Luis. It was established on December 10, 1991, to protect the natural features, representative of the Semiarid Chaco and the Argentine Low Monte ecoregions.
Climate.
In San Luis, the ecotone between the mountains and the Chaco is located west of the 400 mm isohyet and covers about 800,000 ha. The climate of the area is semi-arid and is characterized by sharp temperature variations, both seasonal and daily. The average annual maximum temperature is 24.4 °C, while the minimum is 10.7 °C. The annual average temperature is 13.7 °C. The maximum monthly average temperature is 31 °C and for the month of January; the minimum is 3.1 °C for the month of July. The average value of relative humidity varies between 48% in August–September to 64% in April–June; the annual average is 55%. Precipitation is scarce and unevenly distributed throughout the year. There are two seasons: dry during winter and wet from late spring to early autumn.
Geology.
Sierra de las Quijadas is located in the San Luis Basin, whose surface is composed of sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous outcrops of various ages. The basin is bounded by the Sierra de San Luis to the east, while to the west the basin is presumed to be subsurficially connected to the Triassic basins of the Mendoza and San Juan provinces. To the north, the basin extends to Marayes de San Juan. It is an anticlinal structure, of roughly elliptical shape whose major axis is oriented meridionally. A large fracture extends in the north-south direction, subparallel to the current course of the Desaguadero River. Along this fracture, the Quijadas range has been lifted.
Geologic origin.
The geologic origin of the Quijadas is composed of three stages: infill, uplift and erosion. 120 mya, the present location of the Quijadas was occupied by a sedimentary basin, flanked by two highlands. One of them is the Sierras de San Luis. Another is a range that had existed along the current course of the Desaguadero River. The basins began to be filled with fluvial and aeolian sediments, eroded from the highlands. The process lasted some 20 Ma, which resulted in the basin being completely filled 100 mya. The following 75 Ma are missing from the geologic record and are assumed to be a period of calm. During the Tertiary, the layers that had been deposited 120–100 mya were raised and folded by the tectonic processes associated with the formation of Sierras Pampeanas. The uplift began 25 mya, and the Quijadas still rise, as the South American Plate continues its westward migration. Concurrently with the uplift, erosion became a major factor, which created the modern valleys and ravines, such as the Potrero de la Aguada valley.
Geologic formations.
Within the park's boundaries, five geologic formations of Lower Cretaceous age, as well as one of Tertiary, have been identified. The Cretaceous layers relate to the 20 Ma basin infilling stage, which accumulated more than 1000 m of sediments. Subsequent uplift, folding and erosion allowed these formations to be currently exposed at the surface. El Jume Formation is the oldest of the sequence, having been formed 120 mya. It outcrops in the Potrero de la Aguada valley. Some 300 m thick, its depositional environments varied from fluvial to aeolian to lacustrine. Lithologically, the formation is composed of alternating layers of red sandstone and claystone. El Toscal and La Cruz formations are widely distributed within the Quijadas. Deposited 110 mya, the formations contribute to the bulk of the area's relief, formin reddish, whitish and gray cliffs and gorges. The rocks originate in the high-energy fluvial environments, associated with rivers that once flowed from the ancient Sierra del Desaguadero mountains. La Cruz formation contains a layer of basaltic lava, which erupted 109.4–107.4 mya. The formations are made up of layers of conglomerate, sandstone, claystone and gypsum and are partly covered by modern fill. Lagarcito Formation, deposited around 100 mya, is found at the eastern slopes of the mountains, gradually diving into the surrounding plain. The formation is dominated by claystones, with some sandstones, that were deposited into a system of interconnected lakes. The San Roque is the most recent formation, deposited 25 mya. Together with the Lagarcito Formation, it forms a series of low rising hills throughout the park. It consists of layers of conglomerate, sandstone, claystone and gypsum, partly covered with modern fill. Undifferentiated Quaternary deposits consist of rocks as well as sediments. The latter are mainly fluvial sands and aeolian silts, typical of the Pampeano loess. The age of these layers does not exceed 1 Ma. The youngest deposits (Pleistocene–Holocene) are found in the flood plains and in the Lagunas de Guanacache wetlands. They are alluvial and lacustrine in origin, with some salt flats as well.
Paleontology.
During the 1960s–1970s, remains of "Pterodaustro guinazui" were discovered for the first time in the Lagarcito Formation by José Bonaparte. Since then, the fossil site, named Loma del "Pterodaustro" during the 1990s, has been extensively quarried, providing abundant fossil plant and animal remains, mainly pterosaurs; due to the fine preservation of delicate structures, the site has been classified as a "Konservat-Lagerstätte".
Hydrography.
The park has a very pronounced drainage network, generated by stormwater runoff affecting the area, so the surface rocks are very susceptible to erosion. However, all streams are ephemeral, carrying water only during the wet season. The Potrero de la Aguada valley is a special case, as it concentrates rainwater in an enclosed structure and discharges it via a single outlet, Arroyo de la Aguada, which empties into the Desaguadero River.
The Lagunas de Guanacache is historically one of the largest wetlands in the Cuyo; it's located on the border of the provinces of Mendoza, San Juan and San Luis, approximately 80 km northeast of the city of Mendoza. The system was part of a larger wetland complex, fed by the Mendoza and San Juan rivers, which included lakes La Balsita, Grande, Del Toro, Silverio, Del
Rosario, El Porvenir, among others. These marsh waters discharged into the Desaguadero River, contributing to its perennial flow. The complex can be divided into three sectors.
Topography.
The variation of elevation is mainly between 500 and 900 mamsl. The Desaguadero River valley is below 500 m, while some peaks are above 900 m: Cerro El Portillo and Cerro El Lindo are below 1090 m, Cerro Los Viejos is 920 m Cerros de la Aguada and Cerros de la Vidriera approach 850 m. The whole area is divided into 6 physiographic units: the Desaguadero River flood plain, the Arroyo de la Aguada circular valley, steppe, foothills, and slopes and summits. The shaping of the landscape in the region is mainly due to the erosion caused by water from occasional rains and erosion by wind.
Biodiversity.
Sierra de las Quijadas is the only protected area in the Chaco – Monte ecotone, preserving flora and fauna of the San Luis Province.
Flora.
Within the park, 416 species have been identified, including 17 that are introduced, of which the French tamarisk is the most prominent, forming dense stands along the stream banks. Two species, "Senecio hualtaranensis" and "Atriplex quixadensis" are endemic to the park.
Fauna.
The location of the national park in the Chaco – Monte ecotones entails the presence of representative species of both biomes. Chaco species such as the gray brocket, Chacoan mara, blue-crowned parakeet and Argentine boa coexist with characteristic species of the Monte, such as the pink fairy armadillo, sandy gallito and Darwin's tree iguana, among others. About 270 vertebrate species are found in the park, including 4 introduced.
References.
Literature cited


Curonian Spit National Park (Russia)

Curonian Spit National Park () (Also: Kurshskaya Kosa) covers the Russian-owned southern 41 km of the 98 km long, curved Curonian Spit – a type of depositional sandbar. The spit separates the salt-water Baltic Sea (on the west) from the freshwater Curonian Lagoon to the east. The southern portion of the spit lies within Zelenogradsky District in Kaliningrad Oblast, Russia; the northern portion lies within southwestern Lithuania. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site shared by the two countries.
Topography.
The foundations of the spit were created about 15,000 BCE as the receding glaciers left the Baltic Sea behind, and the sand dunes of the Curonian built on the glacial moraine. The actions of sea and wind build large dunes, which average 35 meters on the spit. The area is one of high biodiversity due to the many different ecological communities in close proximity to each other: beach, dune ridge, wetlands of various types, meadows and forests. The Curonian Spit is the second longest spit in the world, after the 110-km long Arabat Spit in the Sea of Azov. The park follows the spit from the Sambian Peninsula in the south to the border with Lithuania about 40 km north; its width varies from 0.4 to 4 km. The water in the lagoon averages 3.7 meters in depth, and the water level of the lagoon is about 12 cm above that of the Baltic.
Plants and animals.
Birds and waterfowl are abundant, as the park has abundant wetlands and is on major migratory routes. 262 species of birds have been recorded in the park, and 100 are known to nest and breed in the territory. The park is also home to 46 species of mammals, including elk, European roe deer, wild boar, fox, marten, raccoon dog, badger, hare, red squirrel, and beaver. The park has recorded over 290 species of terrestrial vertebrates, representing 80% of the species found in the Kaliningrad region. Plant life is similarly varied: 889 species, hybrids, varieties and forms of wild vascular plants of 398 genera and 111 families.


Nuraghe Mannu

Nuraghe Mannu is a nuragic archaeological site located about above sea level overlooking the village of Cala Gonone. It is located on the east coast of Sardinia, in the middle of the gulf of Orosei, province of Nuoro and the municipality of Dorgali. The Nuraghe is partially visible from below and from the coast, from the top it gives a clear view over the surrounding area.
History.
Currently the area surrounding the site is the subject of research and archaeological excavations. The first explorer of the area was Antonio Taramelli who in 1927 denounced the damage that the local people did, caused by them using the stones of the monument for the construction of their homes and streets. The scholar discovered the northernmost and the southernmost building dating back to the Roman Period.
Structure.
The Nuraghe is a single small tower, is 4.70 meters tall at the highest point and is built with large polyhedral stones of basaltic and trachyte rock. The main facade overlooks the stretch of mountainous coast above the beach of Cala Fuili. The structure of the tower is very modest compared to the great extension of the Nuragic village that lies at its feet. The village consists of various circular huts made of unpolished stones and of rectangular buildings constructed with stones placed on top of each other without any kind of adhesive.
Function.
The function of this large and imposing structure is assumed to be a watch tower because the Nuraghe is located next to another larger archaeological site "On Nuragheddu" which apparently had the function of defending the population from attack.
Finds.
Brick fragments and Roman pottery were found around the Nuraghe. The youth employment group that works in the territory of Dorgali / Cala Gonone has unearthed fragments of vases and cups dating back to the Nuragic; while other fragments found near the wall, belong to pots and pans.


Morad Tahbaz

Morad Tahbaz is an Iranian-American businessman and conservationist. He also holds British citizenship. Tahbaz is a co-founder of the Persian Wildlife Heritage Foundation (PWHF). In January 2018, Iranian authorities arrested Tahbaz along with eight other PWHF-affiliated individuals.
In November 2019, the Iranian judiciary sentenced Tahbaz to 10 years in prison for "contacts with the US enemy government."
In June 2020 and on the occasion of World Environment Day, US Department of State called for the release of Morad Tahbaz. In a video message, Brian Hook encouraged governments to join this call to end the detention of Tahbaz and his colleagues.
Education.
Tahbaz graduated from Colgate University in 1977 with a degree in liberal arts and from Columbia University in 1983 with an MBA.


Katy Prairie Conservancy

Katy Prairie Conservancy (KPC) was established in 1992 to conserve Katy Prairie, part of the Western Gulf coastal grasslands located in Texas, United States. Approximately 24,000 acres is under conservation easements or owned by KPC in western Harris and Waller Counties.
Katy Prairie Conservancy Preserves.
Nelson Farms Preserve.
Today, Nelson Farms Preserve encompasses more than 1,700 acres, of which 200 acres still operates as a working rice farm to benefit wildlife dependent upon the agricultural wetlands present on the landscape. Cypress Creek flows through the preserve offering excellent habitat because of its perennial source of water and vegetative diversity. The unique combination of habitat types attracts significant numbers of waterfowl, waterbirds, migratory songbirds, raptor, beaver, white-tailed deer and other wildlife.
Warren Ranch.
Warren Ranch is one of the largest remaining working cattle ranches on the prairie.
Williams Prairie Preserve.
Williams Prairie is a 10 acre remnant prairie full of little bluestem, brownseed "Paspalum", and Indiangrass. Egrets and other herons can be found residing year-round in the depressions as long as they continue to hold water during the warmer months.
Other Conserved Land on the Katy Prairie.
West Side Airport Wetlands Mitigation Area.
In 1986 the City of Houston purchased 1,432 acres for a potential future airport on Morton Road near the western edge of the Katy Prairie. During the expansion of the Houston Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) the site was used as a wetlands mitigation area for migratory birds to the Katy Prairie.
John Paul Landing Park.
John Paul Landing Park is a 865-acre public park operated by Harris County, located on Katy-Hockley Road and Sharp Road on the Katy Prairie. The project has been in development for Precinct 3 since 2011 and includes 400-acre lake as well as an environmental education center.
Paul D. Rushing Park.
Paul D. Rushing Park is a 232-acre public park operated by Harris County, located at 9114 Katy Hockley Road on the Katy Prairie. this park includes a lake and wildlife viewing area.
Katy Park.
Katy Park system includes a series of two Harris County and one municipal parks located inside the City of Katy. These parks encompass about 200-acres and over 1,000 trees and 35-acres of lakes.
Katy Prairie Operations.
Farming and ranching.
The Katy Prairie Conservancy supports the agricultural economy in three main
ways: holding conservation easements on agricultural land, leasing land for rice growing operations, and managing the Warren Ranch. KPC owns and manages the Warren Ranch, in partnership with the
Warren Family. The ranch’s pastureland is used to graze its own herd of cattle as well
as those of other ranchers who lease from the ranch. KPC is rehabilitating the grasslands to sustain during drought and support numerous species and wildlife.
Hunting.
KPC’s lands, including the Warren Ranch, provide high-quality dove, deer, and quail habitat and offer opportunities for hunting by the public. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department currently leases the KPC property as part of the Annual Public Hunting Permit Program.
Recreation.
Community members enjoy hiking, birding, hunting, and many other activities on KPC’s
lands. KPC’s unique native grasslands and migratory birds attract tourists such as birders and local visitors.


Baker Airport

Baker Airport is a public airport located two miles (3 km) northwest of the central business district of Baker, in San Bernardino County, California, United States. It is owned by the U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management.
Facilities and aircraft.
Baker Airport covers an area of and has one runway designated 15/33 with a 3,157 by 50 feet (962 by 15 m) asphalt surface. For the 12-month period ending February 16, 2006, the airport had 500 general aviation aircraft operations, an average of 42 per month.


Khoo Kongsi

The Khoo Kongsi is a large Chinese clanhouse with elaborate and highly ornamented architecture, a mark of the dominant presence of the Chinese in Penang, Malaysia. The famous Khoo Kongsi is the grandest clan temple in the country. It is also one of the city's major historic attractions. The clan temple has retained its authentic historic setting, which includes an association building, a traditional theatre and the late 19th century rowhouses for clan members, all clustered around a granite-paved square. It is located in Cannon Square in the heart of the oldest part of the city of George Town, in the midst of narrow, winding lanes and quaint-looking pre-War houses exuding a palpable old world charm.
History.
The Khoo Kongsi is a clan association of the Leong San Tong (Dragon Mountain Hall) clan, whose forefathers came from XinAn Village, Haicang District, Xiamen Municipal in Fujian province. The Khoos were among the wealthy Straits Chinese traders of 17th century Malacca and early Penang. In the 19th century, the clan complex resembled a miniature clan village, with its own self-government as well as educational, financial, welfare and social organisations. The clan temple was built in 1906 when the Khoo clan was at the height of wealth and eminence in Penang society.
The forefathers of the Khoo family who emigrated from South China built it as a clanhouse for members of the Khoo family in 1851. It was burnt down in 1901, allegedly struck by lightning, and the Chinese believed that it was due to its resemblance to the Emperor's palace, which provoked the gods. A scaled-down version was later built in 1902 and completed in 1906.
Even so, the complex boasts a magnificent hall embellished with intricate carvings and richly ornamented beams of the finest wood bearing the mark of master craftsmen from China. The clan temple is dedicated to the clan's Patron Deities and also houses a collection of ancestral tablets. Chinese operas are still staged at the theatre during the seventh lunar month.
Like many such clan associations in South East Asia, Khoo Kongsi is no longer the center of important social activities and functions that it once held. Different strategies and ideas are being implemented to redefine the place of clan associations in the 21st century. Due to its location in the UNESCO World Heritage area of George Town, it is a popular attraction for tourists interested in local culture.


Muriwai

Muriwai, also called Muriwai Beach, is a coastal community on the west coast of the Auckland Region in the North Island of New Zealand. The black-sand surf beach and surrounding area is a popular recreational area for Aucklanders. Gannets nest there in a large colony on the rocks.
The New Zealand Ministry for Culture and Heritage gives a translation of "water's end" for "Muriwai".
Location.
Muriwai is approximately 17 km west of Kumeū, 42 kilometres northwest of Auckland city, at the southern end of an unbroken 50 kilometre stretch of beach which extends up the Tasman Sea coast to the mouth of the Kaipara Harbour.
One of several popular beaches in the area (others include Piha and Karekare), it experiences a population explosion in summer when Aucklanders head to the sea. It is in the Rodney Ward of the Auckland Region.
Governance.
Muriwai is part of the Local Government Rodney Ward of Auckland Council and is part of the Kumeu Subdivision of the Rodney Local Board.
Muriwai is in the Helensville Electorate however proposed Boundary changes in late 2019 could change this.
Demographics.
Muriwai had a population of 1,248 at the 2018 New Zealand census, an increase of 117 people (10.3%) since the 2013 census, and an increase of 204 people (19.5%) since the 2006 census. There were 444 households. There were 636 males and 612 females, giving a sex ratio of 1.04 males per female. The median age was 40.1 years, with 282 people (22.6%) aged under 15 years, 165 (13.2%) aged 15 to 29, 690 (55.3%) aged 30 to 64, and 111 (8.9%) aged 65 or older.
Ethnicities were 94.2% European/Pākehā, 11.1% Māori, 2.6% Pacific peoples, 3.8% Asian, and 3.1% other ethnicities (totals add to more than 100% since people could identify with multiple ethnicities).
The proportion of people born overseas was 18.3%, compared with 27.1% nationally.
Although some people objected to giving their religion, 69.5% had no religion, 18.5% were Christian, and 5.0% had other religions.
Of those at least 15 years old, 333 (34.5%) people had a bachelor or higher degree, and 81 (8.4%) people had no formal qualifications. The median income was $45,700. The employment status of those at least 15 was that 552 (57.1%) people were employed full-time, 168 (17.4%) were part-time, and 33 (3.4%) were unemployed.
Geology.
Sand and rock (sedimentary), older volcanic material, with many concretions and layers in the cliff walls. A blowhole plays often. The shore platform is also well jointed, with the main rock type being piha conglomerate.
Muriwai Beach has black sand, caused by the iron content derived from the ancient volcanoes in the area, including the large Kaipara Volcano which was situated offshore from the Kaipara Heads, and erupted 23-16 million years ago. The black sand is moved up the west coast of the North Island by longshore drift.
Muriwai Regional Park.
Much of the land at the southern end of the beach is part of the Muriwai Regional Park. Maukatia (Maori Bay) to the south is separated from Muriwai Beach by Otakamiro Point, with its steep cliffs and rocky nesting areas that are home to the region's only colony of Australasian gannets. The site of the gannetry has been identified as an Important Bird Area, by BirdLife International.
The Regional Park includes a golf course along Coast Rd, and the area north of Okiritoto Stream is known as the "Five Mile Strip" or "Five Mile Block" as this is its approximate length. A horse park (parking area for horse floats and trucks to unload) is located just to the south of Okiritoto Stream. 4WD access on to the beach is also provided at this point.
The Five Mile Block provides recreational trails for both walkers and horse riders. Cyclists enjoy the Coast Rd as far as the top of the Regional Park (but are not permitted into the adjoining Woodhill Forest) by the forest managers. Dog walkers also frequent the area, as it provides a wide range of off-leash walking opportunities.
2013 shark attack.
In February 2013, filmmaker Adam Strange was killed at Muriwai Beach while swimming about 200m offshore, when he was attacked by a small group of great white sharks. As a result, Muriwai Beach was closed for a number of days. Initial reports suggested the culprit was a bronze whaler, but it was later deemed more likely a great white was to blame. It was the first fatal shark attack in more than three decades in New Zealand.


Birds of Eden

Birds of Eden is the world's largest free flight aviary and bird sanctuary, located in Kurland village near Plettenberg Bay in the Western Cape, South Africa. The mesh dome of the sanctuary was built over of indigenous forest, and is up to above ground level. of walkways, about 75% of which are elevated, let visitors see the birds at all levels of the aviary.
Birds of Eden is one of the four Sanctuaries under The South African Animal Sanctuary Alliance (SAASA). As a member of SAASA Birds of Eden was honoured with four major tourism awards in 2014. The four awards are namely the Lilizela Tourism Visitor Experience of the Year Award at a 'Wildlife Encounters', the Skål International Sustainable Tourism Award, Overall winner of the World Responsible Tourism Award as well as the Gold Award in World Responsible Tourism in the category of 'Best Animal Welfare Initiative'
Facilities.
The enclosure is covered of wire mesh resting on cables strung between 28 masts. The masts vary in length between and at its highest point the mesh is above the ground. The total weight of the wire mesh is about 80 tonnes, and it encloses a total volume of .
Visitors can access the aviary through about of walkways, about 75% of which are elevated to let them see the birds in all areas of the aviary. Visitors can tour the facility on their own, or take a guided tour.
The enclosure was built over indigenous forest and includes a natural gorge with a waterfall, and a 200-seat amphitheater.
Animals.
In 2014 the sanctuary was home to about 3500 birds representing more than 200 species.


Sai Kung West Country Park

Sai Kung West Country Park () is a country park on the Sai Kung Peninsula in northeast Hong Kong.
Opened in 1978 the park's sights include:
History.
Sai Kung West Country Park was formally designated on 3 February 1978.


Gagron Fort

Gagron Fort (Hindi/Rajasthani: गागरोन का किला) is situated in Jhalawar district of Rajasthan, in the Hadoti region of India. It is an example of a hill and water fort. It is a hill and water fort, one of 12 kinds of Vedic fort architecture known as JalDurg.
Conservation.
Six Hill forts of Rajasthan, namely, Amer Fort, Chittor Fort, Gagron Fort, Jaisalmer Fort, Kumbhalgarh and Ranthambore Fort were included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site list during the 37th meeting of the World Heritage Committee in Phnom Penh during June 2013. They were recognized as a serial cultural property and examples of Rajput military hill architecture.
A mausoleum of Sufi Saint Mitthe Shah just outside the fort is the venue for an annual colourful fair held during the month of Moharram. There is also a monastery of Saint Pipaji across the confluence.


Victorian Wader Study Group

The Victorian Wader Study Group (VWSG) is an Australian non-profit, volunteer, ornithological fieldwork group that gathers biometric and other data on waders and terns, mainly through regular catches of large samples of several species by cannon-netting at sites along the coast of Victoria.
History.
The origins of the VWSG go back to 1975 when Dr David Robertson and others started mist-netting waders at night. The first place they tried was in the Cheetham Salt Works at Altona, though better results were obtained later at a coastal site adjacent to the Werribee Sewage Farm, near the town of Werribee, 30 km south-west of Melbourne on Port Phillip.
In 1978 the group was joined by Dr Clive Minton, who had been a pioneer in the development of cannon-netting in Britain as a means of catching large numbers of waders and waterfowl for banding and demographic studies. Minton introduced the technique to the group, with the first cannon-net catch being made at Werribee on 31 December 1978. Thereafter, although the group continued to use mist-netting occasionally for a few years, cannon-netting became the principal method used for catching waders.
At first operating under the aegis of the Victorian Ornithological Research Group, the VWSG was formally established as an independent body in 1979, with David Robertson and Clive Minton elected as co-convenors. Since 1981 it has had a close relationship with the Australasian Wader Studies Group (AWSG), a special interest group of Birds Australia. The VWSG was incorporated in Victoria in 1987. The group's mission is to " …gather, through extensive planned fieldwork programs, comprehensive data on waders and terns throughout Victoria on a long-term basis. This scientifically collected information is intended to form a factual base for conservation considerations, to be a source of information for education of a wider audience, to be a means of generating interest of the general community in environmental and conservation issues, and so be a major contribution to Australian, Flyway and Worldwide knowledge of waders and terns." The VWSG has a membership of about 150, mainly based in Melbourne, and publishes an annual bulletin. As well as conducting fieldwork, it has constructed cannon-nets for, and lent equipment to, other organisations in Australia to encourage more widespread research on waders. It also assists government agencies monitoring migratory birds as potential disease vectors for avian influenza.
Fieldwork.
As well as Werribee, a site which has become relatively less important over the years, the principal regular fieldwork areas of the VWSG include Swan Bay, Western Port, Anderson Inlet and Corner Inlet. Annual visits are made to Mud Islands in Port Phillip, south-eastern South Australia and King Island, Tasmania, as well as occasionally elsewhere. VWSG equipment and members usually form the core of the almost annual expeditions of the AWSG to north-west Western Australia.
The average number of cannon-netting catches made by the VWSG is over 40 a year, with an average annual total of over 7000 waders processed. Principal species caught are red-necked stint, curlew sandpiper, sharp-tailed sandpiper, red knot, sanderling, double-banded plover, bar-tailed godwit, ruddy turnstone, pied oystercatcher and sooty oystercatcher. The main tern species studied are crested and Caspian terns, with other species studied opportunistically.
Conservation.
Victoria lies at the southern end of the East Asian - Australasian Flyway, and the migratory waders that visit its shores breed in northern Asia and Alaska, passing through the densely populated and rapidly developing regions of eastern and south-eastern Asia on their journeys twice a year. Over the years the VWSG has been operating, the emphasis of fieldwork has evolved from simply obtaining biometric and moult data to understand the biology of the birds, to obtaining information on breeding success and survival rates to understand and monitor population levels in the flyway. Most migratory waders caught by the VWSG are fitted with colour-coded plastic leg-flags in a flyway-based program to determine the exact routes and staging areas used by the birds on migration. The group is also assisting with the satellite tracking of larger waders.


Kenya Wildlife Service

The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) is a Kenyan state corporation that was established in 1989 to conserve and manage Kenya’s wildlife. It is established under an Act of Parliament Cap 376 (The Wildlife Conservation and Management (Amendment 1989) Act) with the mandate to conserve and manage wildlife in Kenya and to enforce related laws and regulations.
It manages the biodiversity of the country, protecting and conserving the flora and fauna.
KWS manages most of the National Parks and Reserves in Kenya, the most popular exception being the Maasai Mara National Reserve, which is managed by local authorities. The money collected as conservation fees in the parks is used to help the conservation of the flora and fauna within the parks.
National parks and reserves.
Kenya has over 39 designated national parks and reserves:
Conservation programmes.
KWS runs specific programmes to assist Kenyan species and their habitats that are in particular danger. They have forest and Wetland conservation programmes, as well as specific elephant and rhino projects to help them recover from poaching. The hirola, which is in danger of extinction, is also being monitored.
Within KWS there are several services, each responsible for a different area of work:
Community Wildlife Service.
This branch of the KWS works outside the national parks. They work instead in areas such as wildlife corridors, and teach the communities living there to encourage conservation and look after their resources.
Security Services.
The job of this service is to eliminate poaching in the national parks and stop illegal trade.
Veterinary Services.
This service ensures that healthy breeding populations of species are maintained throughout the country.
Training.
KWS has a training institute, also referred to as Kenya Wildlife Service Training Institute. The facility located in Naivasha, is a middle-level college registered with the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology as a TVET institution. It offers specialized certificate and diploma courses in natural resource management, ecology and tourism in an effort to enhance conservation, management and sustainability of wildlife bio-diversity in Kenya and globally.
KWS also has a Law Enforcement Academy is situated in Manyani Area, which caters for all law enforcers' paramilitary training.Manyani area was established in 1990.
Education.
KWS run several education centres:
These are located inside National Parks, and run programs to encourage people to care for their environment. It is aimed at local people, particularly school groups, but is open to anyone.


Hadley Airport

Hadley Airport is a public use airport owned by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management and located four nautical miles (7 km) southwest of the central business district of Round Mountain, a town in Nye County, Nevada, United States.
History.
In the 1930s, American World War I flying ace Kenneth R. Unger ran a flying school and air shows from the airport.
Facilities and aircraft.
Hadley Airport covers an area of . It contains one runway designated 17/35 which has an asphalt surface measuring 6,776 x 60 feet (2,065 x 18 m). For the 12-month period ending June 30, 2005, the airport had 2,000 general aviation aircraft operations, an average of 166 per month.


Garajonay National Park

Garajonay National Park (, ) is located in the center and north of the island of La Gomera, one of the Canary Islands (Spain). It was declared a national park in 1981 and a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1986. It occupies 40 km2 (15 sq mi) and it extends into each of the six municipalities on the island.
Nearly 450,000 tourists visit the park every year. There is accommodation for tourists just outside the park's boundary.
The park is named after the rock formation of Garajonay, the highest point on the island at . It also includes a small plateau whose altitude is 790–1,400 m above sea level. Features of the national park include the massive rocks that are found along the island. These are former volcanoes whose shapes have been carved by erosion. Some, like the "Fortaleza" (fortress in Spanish) were considered sacred by the native islanders, as well as ideal refuges when attacked. The park is crossed by a large network of 18 footpaths, trekking being one of the main tourist activities in the island.
Environment.
Plants.
Many of the species of flora and fauna are endemic to the Macaronesian islands, the Canary Islands or La Gomera, and the Garajonay forest harbors a rich biota of understory plants, invertebrates, and birds and bats, including a large number of endemic species. The park provides the best example of Canarian "laurisilva", a humid subtropical forest that in the Tertiary covered almost all of Southern Europe. It is also found on the Azores and the Madeira Islands. "Laurus azorica", known as Azores laurel, or by the Portuguese names "louro", "loureiro", "louro-da-terra", and "louro-de-cheiro", can be found in the park, as well as "Laurus novocanariensis", known as Canary laurel. Although named as a single type of forest, the national park englobes several varieties of forests. Most humid and protected valleys oriented to the North have the richest and most complex forests. It is known as valley laurisilva, a true subtropical rainforest where the largest laurel trees can be found. At higher altitudes, with less protection from wind and sun, the forest loses some of its more delicate species. Here it is called slope laurisilva (laurisilva de ladera). At the south the forest is mainly a mix of beech and heather, species adapted to the less humid atmosphere. In August 2012, a forest fire burned 747 hectareas (18%) of this national park.
Animals.
Two species of reptile, "Gallotia gomerana" (Gomeran lizard) and "Chalcides viridanus" (Gomeran skink), can be found. Amphibians include the stripeless tree frog, "Hyla meridionalis". The park is renowned as one of the best places to observe the two Canarian endemic pigeons, laurel pigeon ("Columba junoniae") and Bolle's pigeon ("Columba bollii"). The park has been recognised as an Important Bird Area (IBA) by BirdLife International because it supports populations of various birds. As well as thew two endemic pigeon species, these include Barbary partridges, plain swifts, Eurasian sparrowhawks, Berthelot's pipits and island canaries.
Gara and Jonay.
The peak and park are named after Guanche lore, the hapless lovers Gara and Jonay. Their romance evokes those of Romeo and Juliet and Hero and Leander. Gara was a princess of Agulo on La Gomera. During the festival of Beñesmén, it was customary for unmarried girls of Agulo to gaze at their reflections in the waters of Chorros del Epina. If the water was clear, they would find a husband; if it was cloudy, some misfortune would befall them. When Gara looked at the water, she saw her reflection clearly. However, she gazed too long and the sun's reflection blinded her temporarily. A wise man named Gerián told her that this meant that she needed to avoid all fire or else it would consume her.
Jonay was the son of the Guanche "mencey" or king of Adeje on Tenerife, who arrived on the island to celebrate these ceremonies. Jonay's participation in the ensuing games attracted the attention of Gara, and the two fell in love. Unfortunately, when the engagement was announced, the volcano Teide, visible from La Gomera, began to erupt as if in disapproval. This was interpreted as a bad omen and the couple’s respective parents broke the engagement. Jonay was made to return to Tenerife, but one night, he swam across the channel that separated the two islands and rejoined his beloved. Their respective fathers ordered that the two be found. The lovers were soon trapped on a mountain, where they decided to take their own lives.


United Kingdom Antarctic Heritage Trust

The United Kingdom Antarctic Heritage Trust (UKAHT) is a British charity, registered in 1993 and re-registered in 2015. The UKAHT is a member of the Antarctic Heritage Trust coalition. The UKAHT's Patron is Princess Anne, The Princess Royal.
The organization's stated goals are as follows:
Projects.
Port Lockroy (Historic Site No. 61 under the Antarctic Treaty) is operated as a museum and post office (on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office) by UK Antarctic Heritage Trust during the austral summer. Proceeds from the gift shop fund the repair and conservation of this site and others on the Antarctic Peninsula.
In 2004, the New Zealand Antarctic Heritage Trust began a comprehensive restoration project in the Ross Sea region of Antarctica, focussing on huts belonging to explorers of the region. Although the New Zealand branch of the Trust has operational responsibility for the project, the UK Trust is a supporter of the efforts which include the preservation of huts belonging to Sir Ernest Shackleton and Robert Falcon Scott (both British explorers).


Ulla Ulla National Reserve

The Ulla Ulla National Reserve - which today is part of Apolobamba Integrated Management Natural Area - was created in 1972 with an extension of 240,000 ha, a biosphere reserve located in the Franz Tamayo Province, in the Department of La Paz in western Bolivia.
The Reserve is on the high Andean plain northwest of the city of La Paz, with an average elevation of over 4000 meters above sea level. Its western border is the political border with Peru. The park is about 2,000 km² in size and is populated by about 12,000 people, most of them of Aymara origin. The park protects part of the Central Andean wet puna ecoregion. It is also the home of the Andean Condor (Vultur gryphus) (reportedly the largest flying bird in the world), as well as significant populations of alpacas, and the largest group of vicuñas ("Vicugna vicugna") in Bolivia.
The park was designated a UNESCO biosphere reserve in 1977.


Milarrochy Bay

Milarrochy Bay is a bay on Loch Lomond. It is near the village of Balmaha.
There are a few houses near the bay. Other bays on the east of Loch Lomond include Cashel Bay and Sallochy Bay. The bay has a visitor centre, where you can pick up leaflets about Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park and the surrounding area. There is also a camping and caravanning club site.
The bay is popular with hikers on the West Highland Way.


San Giovanni degli Eremiti

San Giovanni degli Eremiti (St. John of the Hermits) is a church in Palermo, Sicily, near the Palazzo dei Normanni.
History.
The church's origins date to the 6th century. After the establishment of the Norman domination of southern Italy, it was returned to the Christians by Roger II of Sicily who, around 1136, entrusted it to the Benedictine monks of Saint William of Vercelli.
The church was extensively modified during the following centuries. A restoration held around 1880 attempted to restore its original medieval appearance.
Architecture.
The church is notable for its brilliant red domes, which show clearly the persistence of Arab influences in Sicily at the time of its reconstruction in the 12th century, the Arab-Norman culture. In her 1882 "Diary of an Idle Woman in Sicily", Frances Elliot described it as "... totally oriental... it would fit well in Baghdad or Damascus". However, the red colour of the domes are not original, as they were restored in the present way at the end of the nineteenth century by an architect who found pieces of red plaster on the domes and therefore decided to paint all the domes in red.
The church lies with a flank on a square construction. The church is on the Latin Cross plan with a nave and two aisles and three apses. Each of the square spans is surmounted by a dome. The presbytery, ending with a niche, has also a dome.
The cloister, enriched by a luxurious garden, is the best preserved part of the ancient monastery. It has notable small double columns with capitals decorated by vegetable motifs, which support ogival arches. It also includes an Arab cistern.


Register of Protected Natural Values of Croatia

The Register of Protected Natural Values of the Republic of Croatia () has been created according to the "Nature Protection Act" (Croatian "Zakon o zaštiti prirode") in 2005 (Ch. III/5, OG 70/05 with amendments in 2008, OG 139/08). The register is being administered by the "Administration for Nature Protection" () within the Croatian Ministry of Culture (). The register serves as a reference database and unique official data source about protected areas in Croatia. The data in this register is public with the exception of special cases of confidentiality regarding the position of certain protected natural goods. The Nature Protection Act stipulates nine categories of protected areas.
According to the Register, within the Republic of Croatia 461 nature sites are protected in different categories, of which 12 are under preventive protection. The protected areas cover 8.51% of the total surface out of which 11.32% belong to the continental territory and 3.38% to the Croatian maritime area. The largest part of the protected surface are the nature parks (3.71% of the total state territory). Plitvice Lakes National Park is so far the only protected nature area that has also been added to the UNESCO World Heritage.
Constitution.
The Croatian constitution stipulates that the protection of natural heritage needs to be regulated according to the constitution and laws of the Republic of Croatia (art. 2).
As regards nature protection, the Croatian constitution stipulates:
Article 3
The protection of nature and the human environment belong among others to the highest values of the constitutional rights of the Republic of Croatia and are a foundation for interpreting the constitution.
"Očuvanje prirode i čovjekova okoliša između ostalih najviše su vrednote ustavnog poretka Republike Hrvatske i temelj za tumačenje Ustava."
Furthermore, the constitution stipulates:
Article 52
The sea, the coast and islands, waters, airspace, mining resources and other natural treasures, but also land property, woods, plants and animals, other parts of nature, immovable property and items of particular cultural, historic, economic and ecologic significance, which are of interest for the Republic of Croatia according to law, have its particular protection.
"More, morska obala i otoci, vode, zračni prostor, rudno blago i druga prirodna bogatstva, ali i zemljište, šume, biljni i životinjski svijet, drugi dijelovi prirode, nekretnine i stvari od osobitog kulturnoga, povijesnog, gospodarskog i ekološkog značenja, za koje je zakonom određeno da su od interesa za Republiku Hrvatsku, imaju njezinu osobitu zaštitu."
Croatian State Institute for Nature Protection.
The Croatian State Institute for Nature Protection (Croatian "Državni zavod za zaštitu prirode, DZZP") is the responsible national institution for nature protection. It has been established by governmental decree in 2002 (OG 126/02). According to the Nature Protection Act (Croatian "Zakon o zaštiti prirode") the institute is centrally responsible for specialized nature protection activities in Croatia (OG 70/05 and OG 139/08).
Protected area categories.
The Nature Protection Act stipulates nine categories of protected areas. The national categories largely correspond to the internationally recognized IUCN protected area categories.
The table below lists the protected area category, the management level and the proclaiming body.
Species.
The biodiversity in Croatia is amongst the richest in all of Europe. The reason for this is the specific geographic position of Croatia at the crossing of four biogeographical regions, each of which is characterized by specific ecological, climatic and geomorphological properties. The great diversity of habitats in Croatia has resulted in a wealth of diversity of wild taxa (species and subspecies). Unfortunately, the exact number of wild taxa in Croatia is still unknown. To date, almost 38,000 taxa have been recorded. However, the actual number is estimated to be much higher, with estimates ranging from a minimum of 50,000 to over 100,000.
The Register contains 817 protected and 2,307 strictly protected wild and domesticated taxa. For particularly protected species the "Red List of Plants and Animals of the Republic of Croatia" has been created. There are more than 100 species that are listed on the European IUCN Red List of endangered species.


Shams-ol-Emareh

Shams-ol-Emareh is one of Tehran’s historical buildings and a remnant of Qajar Dynasty. It is one of the most prominent buildings on the east side of Golestan Palace. It was built around 1830. It is notable for its height, decorations and design.
Shams-ol-Emareh is 35 meters tall with five floors. It was the tallest building in Tehran when it was built, and the first building using metal in its structure. All the pillars in the upper floors are of cast iron. Shams-ol-Emareh was the symbol of Tehran before Sar dar Baghe Melli was built.
History.
Before his visit to Europe, Naser al-Din Shah Qajar, the fourth king of Qajar Dynasty, was thinking of building a mansion in his capital to compete with Isfahan’s Ālī Qāpū. A tall building that he could stand on its roof and see the entire Tehran. By his order, Shams-ol-Emareh building was started in 1865 and was finished in two years. Naser al-Din Shah took his guests to the roof of this building to see the capital. Building’s designer was Moayer al Mamalek and the architecture was Ali Mohammed Kashi. The style of this building is a combination of traditional Iranian and Western architecture.
The Ministers’ Door.
Qajar ministers used to take their cabinet meetings in this building. Cabinet members would enter or leave from a particular door so it got the name ministers’ door. The Prime Minister’s carriage car, which was ministers only car, with its seven guards, always stopped in front of this door. This is the only door that its Qajar style façade remains.
style.
The building has two towers in the same shape. Tiling and windows are Iranian style partly benefited from western architecture.
ًRooms.
First floor contains king’s porch and hall covered with excellent and minimalist mirroring, with rooms on the sides which together resemble ear rings on a human ‘s face. All parts have interesting decorations. These little rooms, with reticular decorations, drawings and mirroring, also can be seen on other floors.
Decorations.
The floor of the king’s porch and façade are decorated with seven color tiling in Qajar style. The tiling shows drawings from Europe’s nature and western architecture, but the stole is Iranian.
Pillars’ marble bases are decorated with highlighted motifs of plants and animals faces. It seems these motifs belong to different epochs.
The clock of Shams-ol-Emareh.
This clock was a present to Naser al-Din Shah's palace from Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom. The same palace which was built in European style and was distinguished among all buildings adjacent to Golestan Palace. The clock was mounted on top of Shams-ol-Emareh so as to inform all the people of the small Tehran passing of the time. The loud sound of the clock, however, caused the settlers in the palace to complain. The shah, Finally, ordered to lessen its sound. The attaint work on the clock, however, did not do any good and muted the clock. The clock remained silent for over a hundred years. This silence finally ended on 12 November 2012 after repairs were finished. The clock’s bell sounded again.
Repairs.
Shams-ol-Emareh went through a period of repairs which ended in Repairs and maintenance of was finished in 1997. In 1999 the ground floor was opened to the public.