At the Crossroad of Nature Eco-scout Camp Held in Goygol National Park

Organized by IDEA Public Union and Association of Scouts of Azerbaijan (ASA) and supported by Azerbaijan Youth Foundation another eco-scout camp named “At the Crossroad of Nature”was held on 6-8 February 2019, this time in Goygol National Park.

Being part of IDEA’s Eco-scout program, the camp aimed to install a lifelong interest in environmental stewardship and ethics in young people, inform them about the rich nature and vulnerable fauna and flora of Azerbaijan and promote sustainable use of natural resources, while providing a real nature experience without bringing damage to it.

The camp gathered 150 young people, aged 18-25, who are pursuing environmental field studies or have experience in related fields.

During the camp, participants toured Goygol national park and learned about the park's main activity, its area-specific and world known forest landscape, the lake’s ecosystem and endangered fauna species that are listed in the Red Book of Azerbaijan.

Throughout the two-day camp, campers were given training sessions on national parks and the biodiversity of Azerbaijan, instructions on setting up a tent while in nature, first aid, as well as hiking checklist and safety essentials in hiking gear. Moreover, campers engaged in various practical training activities, games, competitions, debates on a range of environmental issues, and enjoyed the musical game and dance party.

Additionaly, 13-km trail hike up to a snow-covered Maralgol lake was organized on the second day of the camp.

On the closing day, participants were given certificates and memorial gifts.                                                       

IDEA Eco-scout project was launched in March of 2017. The project is a great opportunity for young people to engage in environmental issues, find solutions to the most pressing challenges that threaten our planet and become a leader of this environmental movement. First camp within the project was organized last year in Shirvan and, later on, in Aghgol national park.

Aiming to spread environmental awareness and promote responsible treatment of the environment, the Eco-scout camp is planned to take place in other national parks of the country as well.