Scholarly record

PLANNING OF GEOPARK AND ITS PERSPECTIVES IN THE CAUCASUS ON THE EXAMPLE OF THE RACHA REGION

Tamar Chichinadze

Abstract

The research topic is about to planning geopark in Racha-Lechkhumi Kvemo Svanei region, specifically in Racha region In Georgia, Caucasus. There is no one category of protected areas in Racha region. Geopark is a new category of protected areas which will be a novelty in Georgia and the whole of the Caucasus. In the case of planning the geopark, in the region would develop geotourism. In today's developed countries, Geotourism and geoparks as novel strategies for socio?economic development in rural areas. Geopark - this is a unique geological site whose main priorities are the protection and promotion of geological heritage, tourism development, education, scientific research, high public engagement. One of the values of Racha is hydro resources. On deep rocky rivers it is possible to develop rafting.There are about 50 species of highly mineralized water in Racha (which are not purposely used). The climatic-balneological resorts built on their base, Utsera, and Shovi, will become more demanding. The existing resorts will be elaborated and the basis for studying and mastering the resorts will be laid. With the development of geotourism in the region, the demand for bottling and distribution of local mineral waters will increase. The most important criteria for creating a Geological Park - Geopark is precisely to select a geological site that features interesting stratigraphic forms, volcanic and glacial terrain, canyons, lava flows, caves, closed mines, and unexploded quarries. An important area for the Geopark is the Racha Limestone Massif, where up to 45 caves and gaps are registered. Today, when the Racha region is under severe depopulations, geotourism will be one of the main strategies for the development of villages in the region. If we develop geotourism in the region, the local youth will be employed at the Geopark?s visitor centers, the production of local ecological products will significantly increase, a new source of income will emerge in the region. Geopark and geotourism This is a new but experienced strategy whole the world.

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