A Rationale for a Regional Network of Ecologically Valuable Areas

Several ecologically valuable objects identified on the basis of complex assessment and differentiation of the region are proposed for establishing a regional network of specially protected areas. To identify these objects, characteristics of the plant cover, soils, faunistic and hydrobiological associations, and landscapes have been analyzed using a 1 : 1000000 vegetation map. Five classes of ecologically valuable areas are distinguished according to the need for integrated protection of landscapes and their components or botanical and zoological objects. The concept has been realized using an example of the Khanty–Mansi Autonomous Area, Western Siberia.