Implementation is planned in several phases. In particular, the ceremonial handover of a UAZ vehicle from INK in Yakutsk took place on May 30. The project also provides for the construction of a resource base in the “Naacha” area of Gorny district and transportation of young bisons from nurseries.

In addition, materials have already been purchased and delivered for the assembly of a fenced area — a support point for monitoring and protection of rare animal species in the resource reserve “Keyikte” in the Olekminsky district. Assembly work is already underway at the site.

The project to preserve and create a viable population of a rare species of mammoth fauna — forest bison, which is included in the Red List of the International Union for Conservation of Nature, is being implemented by INK together with the Directorate of Biological Resources, Specially Protected Natural Areas and Natural Parks of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia). The main goal of the program is to create sustainable, free-living herds of forest bison in Western Yakutia.

— This project is of great importance. It was clear from the beginning that sponsorship and additional funds were needed for its development. We are very happy that Irkutsk Oil Company, which is engaged in produciton in Yakutia, not only takes care of nature, but also provided us with financial support. This is a wonderful example of a socially responsible business that strives for the development of the republic," said Yakov Sivtsev, Director of the Directorate of Biological Resources, Protected Areas and Natural Parks of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia).

— INK takes a responsible approach to the issues of socio-economic development in the republic. We also prioritize environmental aspects, in particular biodiversity conservation and ecosystem development. When colleagues approached us last year with support for the project, we immediately decided to help. In fact, the project is interesting and unique, both on the Russian and global scale. I hope we will continue to cooperate in this direction," said Evgeny Milov, Managing Director for Legal Work and Regional Policy, Member of the Board.