After many years of research, the Ukrainian Nature Conservation Group (UNCG) has compiled and published an anthology of works dedicated to the history of Ukraine’s first nature reserve, “Koncha-Zaspa.” This unique territory, known today as the “Zhukiv Island” reserve in Kyiv, existed as a full nature reserve from 1921 to 1934. Tragically, almost all of its staff later became victims of Soviet repression, and the reserve itself was liquidated. Its protected status was only restored in 1999 as a local nature reserve.
The collection includes 120 articles published during the reserve’s operation, the Soviet period when information about it was suppressed, and in little-known publications from past years. Most of these are forgotten or hard-to-access works, painstakingly collected over eight years. The book is nearly 800 pages long.
This publication is more than just a collection of articles; it’s a tribute to those who, despite difficult conditions, repression, and the loss of their own freedom, did everything possible to preserve this unique part of nature. The book also fulfills the mission of preserving historical knowledge about the reserve.
We invite you to join the online presentation of this unique publication.
📅 When: Friday, December 6th
🕖 Time: 7:00 PM (EET)
📍 Where: Live broadcast on the UNCG Facebook page
During the presentation, you will be able to ask questions in the comments and participate in a charity auction. All funds raised will go to support conservationists who are currently defending Ukraine as part of the Armed Forces.
Join us and learn more about the history of the “Koncha-Zaspa” nature reserve—a place that has become part of our natural and scientific heritage.
