Embark on an immersive journey into the heart of Hustai National Park, a vibrant ecosystem renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and pioneering conservation efforts. Discover the park’s unique landscape, intricate management strategies, and innovative wildlife conservation approaches. Through hands-on fieldwork, participants will observe and track the iconic Przewalski’s horses, along with other fascinating species such as Mongolian elk, gazelles, Argali sheep, marmots, and gray wolves. Engage in essential ecological research activities, including vegetation biomass assessments, GIS-based habitat analyses, and long-term wildlife monitoring. Develop practical skills in data collection and analysis, contributing directly to the park’s conservation initiatives while gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges and solutions surrounding climate change, habitat preservation, and species protection in one of Mongolia's most important protected areas.

This course will delve into the concept of community-based conservation, examining its significant role within Hustai National Park and its surrounding buffer zone. Participants will explore how climate change influences local conservation efforts, particularly in relation to rangeland management. We will investigate how climate change exacerbates existing conflicts between herders and crop farmers over land and resource use in the buffer zone. Through a combination of theoretical learning and practical field experience, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the socio-environmental dynamics driving these conflicts. Field visits to conflict areas, along with interviews with local herders and crop farmers, will provide firsthand insight into the challenges faced by communities and offer a unique perspective on potential strategies for conflict resolution and sustainable management practices in the face of a changing climate.

This expedition goes beyond scientific exploration, providing a deep cultural immersion experience. Participants will engage in a variety of cultural activities, from attending traditional festivals to visiting the Mongolian Natural History Museum. Participants will have the opportunity to experience the daily lives of herder families, participate in activities such as horse and camel riding, try their hand at traditional food preparation, and enjoy local games, offering a unique insight into Mongolia’s rich cultural heritage and ancient traditions.

This course is designed for academics specializing in protected area studies, professionals in natural sciences, administrators and managers of national and provincial parks, members of environmental and conservation NGOs, climate change advocates, and passionate individuals eager to gain an insider's perspective on Mongolia’s global significance. Participants will explore the delicate balance between conservation, cultural heritage, and sustainable livelihoods within Mongolia's remarkable landscapes, while contributing to vital conservation efforts.