At the global conservation congress held in Abu Dhabi, the team from Tuzlov Lagoons National Nature Park was honored with the prestigious Ranger Award 2025.

Ukrainian rangers made it to the top seven ranger teams globally, alongside representatives from Africa, Asia, and Latin America. They were recognized for their decade-long commitment to preserving the lagoon ecosystems in southern Ukraine, combating poaching, and maintaining biodiversity even amidst the war.

This award was established by leading conservation organizations to honor individuals dedicated to protecting wildlife across all continents.

The award was personally received by Iryna Vykhrystiuk, the chief ranger of the national park, who has bravely confronted armed poachers, risking her own life.

Unfortunately, the war has claimed the lives of two park rangers, yet the team continues their efforts to restore nature after extensive wildfires, proving that wildlife protection is part of the fight for Ukraine.

“This award is not just about our work. It’s about Ukraine, which fights not only for freedom but also for the very life of nature,” representatives of the team emphasized.