In the past year, for the first time, the National Caspian Seal Conservation Program, drafted by the Caspian Seal Conservation Center, was signed by the Office of the President of Iran.
This action plan addresses various aspects, including rescue and rehabilitation of Caspian seals, education and awareness, and research and studies. It mandates cooperation from numerous Iranian government institutions, such as the Environmental Protection Organization, Fisheries, Ministry of Education, Ports and Maritime Organization, Tourism, Veterinary Organization, and others.
One of the priorities was the establishment of Caspian seal rehabilitation and research centers in the three northern provinces of Iran. Accordingly, the provinces of Gilan, Mazandaran, and Golestan, in collaboration with the Caspian Seal Conservation Center, began setting up at least one center in each province.
The center in Gilan province was built in Kiashahr and is ready for operation. In Mazandaran province, due to its extensive coastline, one center was planned in the western part in Tonekabon and another in the eastern part on the Miankaleh Peninsula, both currently under preparation. Golestan province selected Bandar Turkmen for its center, which is already operational. All these centers are expected to be fully operational by the end of the year.
The Caspian Seal Conservation Center provides guidance and consultation for the proper construction of these centers and assists with supplying certain equipment, such as seal holding tanks and sampling and necropsy tools. Once the centers are ready, they will be managed by trained volunteers under the supervision of the Caspian Seal Conservation Center.
