Sievers Apple: A Visit Two Months Later

May 20, 2025 – Ile-Alatau National Park, Butakov Gorge

On May 20, 2025, faculty members of the UNESCO Chair for Sustainable Development at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University and students of the Ecology educational program returned to Butakov Gorge in Ile-Alatau National Park to monitor the condition of Sievers apple (Malus sieversii) saplings, a Tien Shan endemic species, planted earlier in March.

The saplings were planted on March 26 as part of the ALMA-KIKA project. During the monitoring visit, it was observed that the majority of the trees had successfully adapted and were showing healthy growth. Many had sprouted new leaves, indicating a strong resilience to their environment. These positive outcomes were made possible thanks to the applied planting technologies and consistent care.

The event also involved representatives from the "Jerdin Dostary" organization and staff from Ile-Alatau National Park. Participants exchanged insights on the current condition of the saplings and discussed upcoming maintenance activities. The importance of preserving the Sievers apple as a significant contribution to Kazakhstan's biodiversity conservation was emphasized.

This monitoring visit highlighted the systematic and responsible efforts being made to restore the natural habitat of the Sievers apple.