2022 Ukraine Botanic Garden Appeal

Kryvyi Rih Botanical Garden of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine

The Kryvyi Rih Botanical Garden of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine was founded in 1992. It is a unique institution, located in the steppe region of Ukraine. The Garden plays a critical role in research of the biological diversity of this zone, which covers about 40% of the country, and is engaged in developing ways to preserve it.  The staff is also involved in restoration techniques for areas damaged by industrial development. The Garden encompasses 52.4 hectares, and has a unique collection of trees, shrubs, and other flora. It has been awarded the status of a “Ukrainian National Treasure“. 

Collections at Kryvyi Rih Botanical Garden

KRBG is recognised as a leading centre for the conservation of rare and endangered plant species of steppe ecosystems of Ukraine, including species of feathergrasses (Stipa sp.), a number which are included in the European and World Red Lists. The collection is a prerequisite for the creation of a seed bank of endangered species of steppe flora, their disappearance in the collection increases the risk of extinction of these species.

Impact of the Crisis

Before the Russian invasion on February 24, 2022, three departments of the Garden employed 21 researchers, including 14 with advanced scientific degrees. After the Russian aggression began, nine staff members left the country. The workload of those carrying out the Garden’s activities has doubled. The garden needs financial support, particularly for young staff members who have chosen to remain at work. 

Today Kryvyi Rih is a frontline city in the war waged by Russia. Therefore the city has to accommodate a large number of refugees, who need not only financial but also moral and psychological support. The Botanical Garden has many diverse collections and exhibits, and also places where war refugees can experience relaxation and rehabilitation after the horrific experiences they have endured. Garden employees take refugees, both adults and children, on garden tours free of charge.  These tours can entail an overview of the garden, or can be focused on particular topics. Such activities could be substantially expanded if there was more financial support for garden staff.

Funding from the 2022 Ukraine Botanic Garden Appeal will support the following activities:

1. Conducting Garden tours for refugees, people with disabilities
2. Thematic Garden tours for children and other target audiences
3. Nature games and other activities for refugee children
4. Travel subsidies to bring refugees and people with disabilities to the Garden
5. Support of Garden educational school for children