Hyrcanian Forests
Country
Azerbaijan,
Iran (Islamic Republic of)
Inscribed in
2019
Criterion
(ix)
The conservation outlook for this site has been assessed as "significant concern" in the latest assessment cycle. Explore the Conservation Outlook Assessment for the site below. You have the option to access the summary, or the detailed assessment.
Hyrcanian forests form a unique forested massif that stretches 850 km along the southern coast of the Caspian Sea. The history of these broad-leaved forests dates back 25 to 50 million years, when they covered most of this Northern Temperate region. These ancient forest areas retreated during the Quaternary glaciations and then expanded again as the climate became milder. Their floristic biodiversity is remarkable: 44% of the vascular plants known in Iran are found in the Hyrcanian region, which only covers 7% of the country. To date, 180 species of birds typical of broad-leaved temperate forests and 58 mammal species have been recorded, including the iconic Persian Leopard (Panthera pardus tulliana). © UNESCO
Summary
2025 Conservation Outlook
Finalised on
11 Oct 2025
Significant concern
Current state and trend of VALUES
Low Concern
Overall THREATS
Overall PROTECTION and MANAGEMENT
Full assessment
Description of values
Exceptional series of ancient broad-leaved forest
Criterion
(ix)
The Hyrcanian Forests form a green arc of forest, separated from the Caucasus to the west and from semi-desert areas to the east: a unique forested massif that extends from south-eastern Azerbaijan eastwards to the Golestan Province, in Iran. It is a serial site with 17 components stretching approximately 1000 km along the southern shore of the Caspian Sea. It is a remarkable series of sites conserving crucial ecosystems of the Caspian Hyrcanian Region and contains exceptional broad-leaved forests with a history dating back 25 - 50 million years ago, when such forests covered most parts of the Northern Temperate region. These huge ancient forest areas retreated during Quaternary glaciations and later, during milder climate periods, expanded again from these refugia. The World Heritage site covers most environmental features and ecological values of the Hyrcanian Region and represents the most important and key environmental processes illustrating the genesis of those forests, including succession, evolution, and speciation (IUCN, 2019 & 2023; World Heritage Committee, 2019 & 2023). The 17 components of the site complement each other with different species composition, depending on variations in climate, geology, soil type and elevation. All components are functionally linked through the shared evolutionary history and most have ecological connectivity through an almost continuous forest belt in the Hyrcanian Forest region. The exception is the coastal swamp forest Khoshk-e-Daran (component number 12), which has been isolated due to human settlements and agriculture, but it is the only represent of a very rare type of remnant ecosystem (IUCN, 2019). Vegetation assessments confirm the presence of Gleditsia caspica and Diospyros lotus in certain lower-elevation zones of the Hyrcanian Forests (IUCN, 2019). These Tertiary relict species underscore the forest’s natural resilience and regeneration capacity when safeguarded from intensive human pressures, thereby reinforcing the site’s Outstanding Universal Value in illustrating key ecological and evolutionary processes (World Heritage Committee, 2019).
Ecosystem with endemic, relict and endangered species
Criterion
(ix)
The Hyrcanian region is a typical Arcto-Tertiary relict area with over 3,200 vascular plants documented. Due to its isolation, the property hosts many relicts, endangered, and endemic plant species, contributing to the ecological significance of the property, and the Hyrcanian Region in general. Approximately 280 taxa are endemic and sub-endemic for the Hyrcanian Region including species such as Parrotia persica, Zelkova carpinifolia and Pterocarya fraxinifolia and about 500 plant species are Iranian endemics (IUCN, 2019 & 2023; World Heritage Committee, 2019 & 2023). The endemic Parrotia persica, as dominant tree of forests in the lower belts, is the only species of the monotypic genus Parrotia. That underlies the exceptional plant-geographical position of the Hyrcanian forests within the deciduous broad-leaved forests of the Northern Hemisphere. The “sub-endemic” species like Zelkova carpinifolia, Pterocarya fraxinifolia and others are also very specific forest trees of the Hyrcanian-Colchic distribution type, which demonstrate the relations between the Hyrcanian and the Colchic relic forests (IUCN Consultation, 2020). The ecosystems of the site support populations of many forest birds and mammals of the Hyrcanian Region, which are significant on national, regional and global scales. To date, 180 species of birds typical of broadleaved temperate forests have been recorded in the Hyrcanian Region including Steppe Eagle, European Turtle Dove, Eastern Imperial Eagle, European Roller, Semicollared Flycatcher and Caspian Tit. Some 58 mammal species have been recorded across the region, including the Persian Leopard and the threatened wild goat. This Persian Leopard population is considered as the source population of this species and the larger Hyrcanian forested region is the only area worldwide where a population of that species can be seen as viable according to the IUCN criteria (IUCN, 2019 & 2023; World Heritage Committee, 2019 & 2023).
Regional and local biodiversity
As a biodiversity hot-spot there are many locally as well as regionally important and threatened species (plants, birds, animals, invertebrates) in the site (IUCN, 2019 & 2023). Brown bear, grey wolf, Caspian red deer, roe deer and wild boar are all part of the fauna in the region (Soofi et. al, 2018). Furthermore, the Hyrcanian Region lies along an important migratory route for birds (Zarandian et al., 2015).
Additionally, the biodiversity of the Hyrcanian forests provide invaluable ecosystem services for the society, such as wild fruits and plants, timber, fresh water, protection from floods, drought and landslides and serves as a genetic resource for future products (Tohidifar et al., 2016).
Additionally, the biodiversity of the Hyrcanian forests provide invaluable ecosystem services for the society, such as wild fruits and plants, timber, fresh water, protection from floods, drought and landslides and serves as a genetic resource for future products (Tohidifar et al., 2016).
Assessment information
Historically, the network of roads, settlements and agricultural lands as well as past large-scale forestry in the region, have weakened the ecological connectivity of the Hyrcanian forest. Most of the 17 components are remote and far from settlements and roads however, the Golestan National Park is divided by a highway that weakens the ecological connectivity of the property and the traffic itself is a threat, especially for larger mammals. Iran has committed to closing the existing highway in the future, and relocating the road from the middle of Golestan National Park to the northern edge of the park as a national priority. Continuing land encroachment linked to nearby urbanization is another threat to the ecological connectivity of the property. To address this issue and prevent illegal land seizures, the Natural Resources and Environment Protection Units closely monitor forest areas, conducting regular surveillance and engages with local communities, village heads, and Islamic village councils. Unsustainable grazing within some of the components and overgrazing in buffer zones, illegal logging, deadwood collection and poaching have also been reported as threats. Historically the forests in the Hyrcanian region have been reduced from 3.6 million hectares to 1.8 million hectares since the 1950 however, over the past 20 years the forest area has been relatively stable in part due to improved legislation that prohibits tree cutting across all Hyrcanian forests and carefully controls grazing.
Roads, Trails & Railroads
(Fragmentation and degradation of habitats, unnatural changes in species populations)
Inside site
, Widespread(15-50%)
Outside site
Most of the 17 components are remote and far from settlements and traffic roads and the accessibility is difficult. However, the Golestan National Park is divided by a highway that weakens the ecological connectivity of the property and the traffic is a threat, especially for larger mammals (IUCN, 2019; World Heritage Committee, 2019). For example, during 2000 to 2015 road mortality was responsible for more than 26 percent of the total Persian leopards’ unnatural mortality in Iran and about 78 percent (n = 29) of the road kills had happened in Golestan National Park (Naderi et al., 2018). The mortality rate has been reduced due to installation of warning signs and road bumpers after inscription since 2018 onwards. In addition, several overpasses and underpasses will be constructed at appropriate intervals along the highway for wildlife crossings and the highway patrols have also been increased for this purpose (IUCN Consultation, 2025). Iran has committed to closing the existing highway in the future, and relocating the road from the middle of Golestan National Park to the northern edge of the park as a national priority (State Party of Iran, 2023). However, currently financial resources for relocating the road to the northern boundary of the park have not been provided (IUCN Consultation, 2025).
Many of the components have asphalted or gravel forest roads in their core and/or buffer zones, however vehicle traffic is controlled. Although most traffic is forbidden or strictly regulated, some roads can be inappropriately used due to weak implementation of the regulations. All roads need to be closed physically at the entrance of each component, and vehicle traffic on those roads should be strictly limited to the site’s management and research activities, as well as in case of emergency (IUCN, 2019).
Extensive road development have increased the forest's accessibility for grazing, logging, poaching, deadwood and wild plant collection in the whole Hyrcanian region (Soofi et al., 2018). Research indicates that roads in Hyrcanian beech forests changes soil properties and vegetation up to 30 meter from the roads edge (Deljouei et al., 2018), consequently roads are a potential threat to the natural ecosystem an its species composition. Nevertheless, the construction of new roads has been forbidden after the inscription, and natural regeneration will be done within the property which improve the changes e.g. soil properties and vegetation (IUCN Consultation, 2025).
Many of the components have asphalted or gravel forest roads in their core and/or buffer zones, however vehicle traffic is controlled. Although most traffic is forbidden or strictly regulated, some roads can be inappropriately used due to weak implementation of the regulations. All roads need to be closed physically at the entrance of each component, and vehicle traffic on those roads should be strictly limited to the site’s management and research activities, as well as in case of emergency (IUCN, 2019).
Extensive road development have increased the forest's accessibility for grazing, logging, poaching, deadwood and wild plant collection in the whole Hyrcanian region (Soofi et al., 2018). Research indicates that roads in Hyrcanian beech forests changes soil properties and vegetation up to 30 meter from the roads edge (Deljouei et al., 2018), consequently roads are a potential threat to the natural ecosystem an its species composition. Nevertheless, the construction of new roads has been forbidden after the inscription, and natural regeneration will be done within the property which improve the changes e.g. soil properties and vegetation (IUCN Consultation, 2025).
Residential Areas, Commercial & Industrial Areas, Recreation & Tourism Areas
(Land encroachment of natural forests)
Inside site
, Scattered(5-15%)
Outside site
Annually about 10,000 ha of natural resources are exploited in the region (Jahanifar et al., 2019) due to ongoing urbanization. This continuous land encroachment leads to habitat loss of natural forests (Zarandian et al., 2015; Beiranvand et al., 2023), disturbance of wildlife and weakens the ecological connectivity of the property. To address this issue and prevent illegal land seizures, the Natural Resources and Environment Protection Units closely monitor forest areas, conducting regular surveillance. Furthermore, educating local communities, village heads, and Islamic village councils has significantly helped in mitigating this problem. Improving local livelihoods, alleviating the pressures of sanctions, utilizing non-timber forest products, and promoting sustainable tourism with a focus on villages can also greatly contribute to reducing this challenge (IUCN Consultation, 2025).
Other Human Disturbances
(Fire)
Inside site
, Localised(<5%)
Outside site
Fires in the forested areas are mostly ground and leaf litter fires due to natural causes. Fires are getting more severe due to longer periods of drought. Forest fires can contribute to species and habitat loss and erosion (State Party of Iran, 2018).
Wood & Pulp Plantations, Terrestrial Animal Farming, Ranching & Herding
(Unsustainable grazing, overgrazing, illegal logging and deadwood collection)
Inside site
, Widespread(15-50%)
Outside site
The 17 components of the WH Hyrcanian forests are remnants of a very diverse and huge forest ecosystem, which is especially threatened by unsustainable grazing within some of the components and overgrazing in buffer zones. Illegal logging, deadwood collection and poaching have also been reported (IUCN, 2019 & 2023). Historically the forests in the Hyrcanian region have been reduced from 3.6 million hectares to 1.8 millon hectares since the 1950 (Akhani et al., 2010), however, over the past 20 years the forest area has been relatively stable. The maps of Global Forest Watch and Global Forest Change document a total decrease of forest cover in the three Hyrcanian Provinces Gilan, Mazandaran, Golestan from 2001-2023 of 3,682 ha, which is 0.29% of the total forest area of 1.29 Million ha (Global Forest Watch and Global Forest Change), but there is no change in the forest cover of the property and it buffer zone.
Clear-cutting has been prohibited by Natural Resources Organization regulations inside forests, and in recent years, with the implementation of the “Hyrcanian Forest Breathing Plan”, any tree cutting in all areas of the Hyrcanian forests has been officially banned by the government. The removal of fallen or broken trees and dry wood is prohibited (IUCN Consultation, 2025).
Grazing in the Hyrcanian forests is based on grazing permits issued by the General Directorate of Natural Resources in the northern provinces, with strict regulations and capacity limits for each pasture. Issuing grazing permits is prohibited in northern forests, reserves, forest parks, research stations, seed and seedling production stations, rangelands with management plans, and critical areas. Livestock must not remain or graze in forest areas after the authorized grazing period (as specified in the grazing permit or rangeland management plan). It should also be noted that the new generation shows little interest in traditional livestock farming. Therefore, the development of industrial livestock farming, education, and increased monitoring of illegal grazing can significantly help address this issue (IUCN Consultation, 2025).
Clear-cutting has been prohibited by Natural Resources Organization regulations inside forests, and in recent years, with the implementation of the “Hyrcanian Forest Breathing Plan”, any tree cutting in all areas of the Hyrcanian forests has been officially banned by the government. The removal of fallen or broken trees and dry wood is prohibited (IUCN Consultation, 2025).
Grazing in the Hyrcanian forests is based on grazing permits issued by the General Directorate of Natural Resources in the northern provinces, with strict regulations and capacity limits for each pasture. Issuing grazing permits is prohibited in northern forests, reserves, forest parks, research stations, seed and seedling production stations, rangelands with management plans, and critical areas. Livestock must not remain or graze in forest areas after the authorized grazing period (as specified in the grazing permit or rangeland management plan). It should also be noted that the new generation shows little interest in traditional livestock farming. Therefore, the development of industrial livestock farming, education, and increased monitoring of illegal grazing can significantly help address this issue (IUCN Consultation, 2025).
Although the Hyrcanian region is a popular destination, the main tourism pressure is currently located outside the World Heritage site. A large part of the Hyrcanian forest is steep terrain with limited accessibility, which gives "natural" protection from most visitors. An increased negative impact from tourism can be avoided by allowing only sustainable eco-tourism inside the property, in line with the national legislation developed in this regard. Climate change may lead to changes in species distribution in the Hyrcanian region, which can result in the extinction of populations and species, changes in phenology, changes in distribution, migration, and decrease species resilience to changes in local conditions. The phenomenon of dust storms has increased as a consequence of climate change and has become a major environmental hazard along the southern shores of the Caspian Sea and in the Hyrcanian forests over the past decade.
Recreational Activities
(Unsustainable tourism)
Inside site
, Scattered(5-15%)
Outside site
The Hyrcanian region is well known for a pleasant climate and beautiful landscape, which have led to the attraction of domestic tourists from more arid parts of Iran (Tohidifar et al., 2016). As there is forbidden to create any tourism facilities in the property –according to the law-, almost of all of the tourists are directed to the Caspian sea shores (IUCN Consultation, 2025).
Negative impacts associated with tourism include littering (Akhani et al., 2010), which can be witnessed in the whole region along roads, popular hiking paths and around car parking areas, and disturbance of wildlife, habitat loss due to tourism facility developments and collection of endemic and/or threatened plants (Tohidifar et al., 2016).
Tourism inside the property is still undeveloped, but local people have started to develop tourism activities inside the property (Zarandian et al., 2015). Uncontrolled tourism will probably have a negative impact on the Outstanding Universal Value, but it is being addressed by the State Parties (State Party of Iran, 2023; State Party of Azerbaijan & the Islamic Republic of Iran, 2023a & 2023b). On May 24, 2024, the government approved and communicated the ecotourism regulations to all national agencies, requiring all organizations to comply with the new guidelines for ecotourism and sustainable tourism within national and world natural heritage sites. Tourism is not yet fully developed within the World Heritage property, but local people have begun to expand tourism activities in the area. The Iranian government is currently preparing a comprehensive tourism plan for the Hyrcanian forests with the help of leading university consultants in natural resources and environmental fields. Allowing only sustainable ecotourism within the property can prevent the increase of negative tourism impacts. Additionally, the art. 100 of the 6th National Development Plan, the Comprehensive National Plan of Sustainable Tourism includes the objectives for sustainable tourism for the Hyrcanian Forests (IUCN Consultation, 2025).
Negative impacts associated with tourism include littering (Akhani et al., 2010), which can be witnessed in the whole region along roads, popular hiking paths and around car parking areas, and disturbance of wildlife, habitat loss due to tourism facility developments and collection of endemic and/or threatened plants (Tohidifar et al., 2016).
Tourism inside the property is still undeveloped, but local people have started to develop tourism activities inside the property (Zarandian et al., 2015). Uncontrolled tourism will probably have a negative impact on the Outstanding Universal Value, but it is being addressed by the State Parties (State Party of Iran, 2023; State Party of Azerbaijan & the Islamic Republic of Iran, 2023a & 2023b). On May 24, 2024, the government approved and communicated the ecotourism regulations to all national agencies, requiring all organizations to comply with the new guidelines for ecotourism and sustainable tourism within national and world natural heritage sites. Tourism is not yet fully developed within the World Heritage property, but local people have begun to expand tourism activities in the area. The Iranian government is currently preparing a comprehensive tourism plan for the Hyrcanian forests with the help of leading university consultants in natural resources and environmental fields. Allowing only sustainable ecotourism within the property can prevent the increase of negative tourism impacts. Additionally, the art. 100 of the 6th National Development Plan, the Comprehensive National Plan of Sustainable Tourism includes the objectives for sustainable tourism for the Hyrcanian Forests (IUCN Consultation, 2025).
Changes in Temperature Regimes, Changes in Precipitation & Hydrological Regime
(Rising temperature and precipitation changes)
Inside site
, Throughout(>50%)
Outside site
Climate change may lead to changes in species distribution in the Hyrcanian region, which can result in the extinction of populations and species, changes in phenology, changes in distribution, migration, and decrease species resilience to changes in local conditions (Koralewski et al., 2015). The central part of the Alborz Mountains (Mazandaran) and some areas in the Talysh Mountains could be potential climatic refugia under the future conditions for endemic taxa. The most prominent changes are expected for Ruscus hyrcanus, Gleditsia capsica, Acer velutinum, Frangula grandifolia, and Buxus hyrcana. The worrying predicted loss of suitable habitats for most studied taxa would dramatically affect the stability and resilience of forests, threatening thus biodiversity of the Hyrcanian ecoregion (Sękiewicz et al. 2024). Global warming can also lead to outbreaks of diseases in temperate forests such as the Box disease on Buxus hyrcana (State Party of Iran, 2018). The mean annual temperature has already increased and the annual precipitation has decreased in the property, which have resulted in habitat changes such as vegetation moving up on the mountain slopes (State Party of Iran, 2018). The boundaries of the property are extending beyond the tree line and encompassing the abrupt transition towards the dry-lands of the Irano-Turanian biogeographical region (State Party of Iran, 2018). These ecotones could potentially enhance the property's future resilience (e.g. changes of the tree line) to climate change (State Party of Iran, 2018). On the other hand, mountainous ecosystems have small surface areas available for such upward movement and since the Hyrcanian forests are a narrow strip, climate change could trigger habitat loss (Alavi et al., 2019).
The phenomenon of dust storms has increased as a consequence of climate change and has become a major environmental hazard along the southern shores of the Caspian Sea and in the Hyrcanian forests over the past decade. The hot and dry deserts of the Middle East, and dust sources entering from the east and northeast of the country, including the Qara Qum Desert, Turan Plain in Uzbekistan, Atrak Delta (Turkmenistan), Aral Sea. Dust masses generated over the Ryn Desert in the northwest of the Caspian Sea and are transported by strong north-westerly winds in the lower atmosphere to the region. Importantly, in this mechanism, dust masses cross directly over the Caspian Sea without obstacles such as the Alborz Mountains, affecting coastal cities, especially the northern provinces. Dust sources entering from the northwest of the Caspian Sea include Ryn Desert in Russia and the western deserts of the Caspian Sea in the Caucasus region. Dust sources entering from the west of the Caspian Sea include Gobustan in Azerbaijan.
The frequency of dusty days, along with their intensity, has notably increased during this period. Droughts play a significant role in enhancing dust production (IUCN Consultation, 2024). As most of the dust entering the Hyrcanian forests comes from Iran’s northern neighbouring countries, cross-border afforestation, soil stabilization, and cooperation with Caspian littoral states can significantly help address this issue (IUCN Consultation, 2025).
The phenomenon of dust storms has increased as a consequence of climate change and has become a major environmental hazard along the southern shores of the Caspian Sea and in the Hyrcanian forests over the past decade. The hot and dry deserts of the Middle East, and dust sources entering from the east and northeast of the country, including the Qara Qum Desert, Turan Plain in Uzbekistan, Atrak Delta (Turkmenistan), Aral Sea. Dust masses generated over the Ryn Desert in the northwest of the Caspian Sea and are transported by strong north-westerly winds in the lower atmosphere to the region. Importantly, in this mechanism, dust masses cross directly over the Caspian Sea without obstacles such as the Alborz Mountains, affecting coastal cities, especially the northern provinces. Dust sources entering from the northwest of the Caspian Sea include Ryn Desert in Russia and the western deserts of the Caspian Sea in the Caucasus region. Dust sources entering from the west of the Caspian Sea include Gobustan in Azerbaijan.
The frequency of dusty days, along with their intensity, has notably increased during this period. Droughts play a significant role in enhancing dust production (IUCN Consultation, 2024). As most of the dust entering the Hyrcanian forests comes from Iran’s northern neighbouring countries, cross-border afforestation, soil stabilization, and cooperation with Caspian littoral states can significantly help address this issue (IUCN Consultation, 2025).
Involvement of stakeholders and rightsholders, including indigenous peoples and local communities, in decision-making processes
During the nomination process, awareness raising activities were implemented both locally and nationally. As a result, local communities, NGOs and related stakeholders contributed during the nomination process. The Department of Environment, the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts and the National Resources and Watershed Management Organization in Iran is encouraging the spread of public participation methodologies and Participatory Rural Appraisals are becoming more accepted as a methodology for rural development (IUCN Consultation, 2025). There are plans to establish advisory committees on provincial level that will facilitate the communication with local stakeholders (State Party of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Iran, 2023b). The Hirkan national park authority manages the component parts and their buffer zone in cooperation with local stakeholders, especially the Talish people living within the national park. The Talish people follow close to sustainable livelihoods, which has contributed to secure the preservation of the valuable forest until the present time. They have traditional rights to use the land within the buffer zone of the national park (IUCN, 2023). Additionally, the management authority of the Hirkan National Park has established volunteer groups with representatives from the local community, which purpose is mainly to prevent fires and poaching (State Party of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Iran, 2023a).
Legal framework
All component parts of the property are state owned and strictly protected by the respective national legislation in Azerbaijan and Iran. It will be important to harmonize and streamline the management and protection regime across the transnational property as a whole. The two component parts in Azerbaijan are located within the boundaries of Hirkan National Park are subject to a strict protection regime. The 15 component parts in Iran are protected through the Nature Conservation Law and by the Heritage Law (IUCN, 2023).
The whole property is state-owned, but historically considerable parts were illegally used by locals for firewood and pasture lands. After the inscription, no illegal action has been carried out in the property including firewood and encroachment of pasture lands (IUCN Consultation, 2025). The State Party of Iran has already taken many actions to reduce the anthropogenic pressure on the property: providing gas to the villages near forests, implementing a generous insurance system for damages from predators, installing guarded gates at forest roads and allocating villages in overgrazed areas ( IUCN, 2019; State Party of Iran, 2018). Clear-cutting has been prohibited by Natural Resources Organization regulations inside forests, and in recent years, with the implementation of the “Hyrcanian Forest Breathing Plan”, any tree cutting in all areas of the Hyrcanian forests has been officially banned by the government- even the removal of fallen or broken trees and dry wood is prohibited (IUCN COnsultation, 2025).
The whole property is state-owned, but historically considerable parts were illegally used by locals for firewood and pasture lands. After the inscription, no illegal action has been carried out in the property including firewood and encroachment of pasture lands (IUCN Consultation, 2025). The State Party of Iran has already taken many actions to reduce the anthropogenic pressure on the property: providing gas to the villages near forests, implementing a generous insurance system for damages from predators, installing guarded gates at forest roads and allocating villages in overgrazed areas ( IUCN, 2019; State Party of Iran, 2018). Clear-cutting has been prohibited by Natural Resources Organization regulations inside forests, and in recent years, with the implementation of the “Hyrcanian Forest Breathing Plan”, any tree cutting in all areas of the Hyrcanian forests has been officially banned by the government- even the removal of fallen or broken trees and dry wood is prohibited (IUCN COnsultation, 2025).
Governance arrangements
The two component parts in Azerbaijan are located within the boundaries of Hirkan National Park under the responsibility of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources (IUCN, 2023). The 15 components in Iran are governed by three governmental agencies share the responsibility for conservation and management of the nominated site; the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts, National Resources and Watershed Management Organization and the Iranian Department of Environment (IUCN, 2019). The management of the whole property is supervised by a National Steering Committee (State Party of Iran, 2023).
The two State Parties are committed to develop a joint management system for this transnational serial property and have started drafting an “Agreement of Cooperation” (State Party of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Iran, 2023a). Both parties are working on an integrated management system (IUCN Consultation, 2025). The stakeholder involvement is growing and there are plans to engage the local communities in the protection of the property (State Party of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Iran, 2023b). In Iran, more than 80 local community members and volunteers have participated in many activities (IUCN Consultation, 2025).
The two State Parties are committed to develop a joint management system for this transnational serial property and have started drafting an “Agreement of Cooperation” (State Party of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Iran, 2023a). Both parties are working on an integrated management system (IUCN Consultation, 2025). The stakeholder involvement is growing and there are plans to engage the local communities in the protection of the property (State Party of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Iran, 2023b). In Iran, more than 80 local community members and volunteers have participated in many activities (IUCN Consultation, 2025).
Integration into local, regional and national planning systems (including sea/landscape connectivity)
The three management authorities responsible for the site are also responsible for the land-use and planning in the whole Hyrcanian region (State Party of Iran, 2018). Therefore, the World Heritage site can be considered well-integrated into the national and regional planning systems. The State Parties and the management authorities are committed to develop the whole region in a more sustainable manner in the future (State Party of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Iran, 2023a.)
Boundaries
Overall, the boundaries take into account natural features, ecosystem functionality and should be sufficient to protect the OUV. Although the component parts have buffer zones, some would benefit from larger buffer zones, such as Khoshk-e-Daran - an isolated swamp forest surrounded by agricultural lands (IUCN, 2019 & 2023; State Party of Iran, 2018).
Overlapping international designations
The two components in Golestan National Park, Iran, overlap with the Golestan Biosphere Reserve. Both designations seem to be under the same management authority (State Party of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Iran, 2024). No further information on th level of coordination between designations has been found.
Implementation of World Heritage Committee decisions and recommendations
The property was inscribed on the World Heritage list in 2019 and the decision included a few recommendations to the State Party: 1) align the boundaries of the existing protected areas to those of the World Heritage property in the near future; 2) adopt fully the Master Management Plan for the property as a whole by 2022; 3) foster collaborative and participatory approaches to managing the property; 4) work collaboratively with local people to sustainably regulate grazing activities and minimize discernible seasonal/permanent settlements within all component parts; 5) develop a comprehensive plan on sustainable tourism for the property as a whole; 6) rationalize the forest road access system within all components to strictly limit vehicular access to site management activities, research and emergency responses; and 7) prepare an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) on the proposed upgrading of the existing road in the Golestan National Park with a view to replacing the existing highway (World Heritage Committee, 2019). The implementation of some of these recommendations has started, but they are still in the planning phase and the funding seems to be insecure (State Party of Iran, 2023).
Climate action
The effects of climate change on the OUV are included the monitoring programme for the components in Iran (State Party of Iran, 2018), but not for the two components in Azerbaijan (State Party of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Iran, 2023b). There are particular concerns for increased periods of drought, dust storms and their connection to wildfire (IUCN Consultation, 2024; State Party of Iran, 2018). Cross-border afforestation, soil stabilization in dust source areas, and cooperation with dust-emitting countries within the framework of the World Heritage Convention to prevent damage to inscribed world heritage sites can significantly help mitigate this problem (IUCN Consultation, 2025).
Management plan and overall management system
The management system is well organized and has potential to perform well, provided that it is adequately funded and that available resources are directed towards protecting the site. The two State Parties are committed to develop a joint management system for this transnational serial property and have started drafting an “Agreement of Cooperation” (State Party of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Iran, 2023a).
Law enforcement
There are reports that law enforcement could be further improved to ensure the property's ecosystems and weakened ecological connectivity will recover from decades of overgrazing, illegal logging and poaching (IUCN, 2019; State Party of Iran, 2018). The ranger teams in Golestan and other high-pressure components would benefit from standardized patrol protocols, enhanced inter-agency coordination, and targeted resources such as motorized vehicles and drone surveillance. Expanding joint patrolling with local communities, where volunteers are trained to report illegal logging or poaching, could further strengthen enforcement capacity.
Sustainable finance
The State Parties have been strongly committed to allocate adequate funding for the management and protection of the property ( IUCN, 2019 & 2023; State Party of Iran, 2018; State Party of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Iran, 2023b). Nonetheless, considering the current economy of the Islamic Republic of Iran the situation is not promising because of the national and international political situation.
Staff capacity, training and development
The staffing capacity is satisfactory and the whole property reports a total of 329 full-time personnel with adequate education and diverse expertise (State Party of Iran, 2018; State Party of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Iran, 2023b). There is a need for further hands-on management training for the local management staff and a mentoring program for the benefit of junior staff members (State Party of Iran, 2018).
Education and interpretation programmes
There are plans of starting up education and awareness programmes for local schools and stakeholders. Additionally, a public awareness plan for the Hirkan National Park will be prepared. The current situation for these activities is not known. The property has two visitor centers that would benefit from modernization and in the Hirkan National Park a visit center is under construction (IUCN, 2019 & 2023; State Party of Iran, 2018; State Party of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Iran, 2023b). Some of the component parts in Iran have visitor centers e.g. in Golestan National Park, Kojour and Khoshke-Daran (IUCN Consultation, 2025).
Tourism and visitation management
At a national level in the Islamic republic of Iran, the awareness of the OUV and its implications for tourism is at satisfactory level, since the national authority for tourism is a key-partner in the management system for the property (State Party of Iran, 2018). In Azerbaijan there is a national Strategic Road Map for the Development of the Specialized Tourism Industry approved in 2016 (State Party of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Iran, 2023b), and hence before the inscription of Hyrcanian forests on the WH list. However, the tourism pressure in the components Dangyaband and İstisuchay Valley in Azerbaijan are low and strictly restricted (IUCN, 2023). Iran is working on developing a Comprehensive Plan on Sustainable Tourism and awareness raising activities have been carried out both for local communities and visitors (IUCN Consultation, 2025). Therefore, tourism and visitation management is gradually improving, also aided by the ecotourism regulations approved by the government in 2024. These regulations require all organizations to comply with the new guidelines for ecotourism and sustainable tourism within national and world natural heritage sites. Further projects are underway to improve tourism infrastructure.
Sustainable use
There are indications of a long history of unsustainable use of natural resources such as overgrazing, logging, farming, infrastructure and settlements both inside and outside the property (Beiranvand A. et al., 2023; IUCN, 2019 & 2023; Jahanifar et al., 2019; Mittermeier et al., 2005; Soofi et al., 2018; State Party of Iran, 2018; State Party of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Iran, 2023b). This unsustainable use is still ongoing, but the State Parties have shown commitment to stop this negative trend and implement sustainable development in the whole region. Already in place is a management plan for sustainable development of rural areas which is targeting all villages in the Hyrcanian region (IUCN, 2019; State Party of Iran, 2018).
Monitoring
The monitoring program needs to be better connected to the property and its value; therefore, Iran has initiated a project on the permanent monitoring through inter-organizational task force both on fauna and flora (IUCN Consultation, 2025). For example, it is not stated how many of the permanent monitoring plots are inside the property and buffer zones and the indicators used do not yet refer to the site´s OUV (State Party of Iran, 2018; State Party of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Iran, 2023b). There is a project underway to develop a unified, cross-border database where Iranian and Azerbaijani authorities can input and review ecological data in real time. This system would improve detection of threats (e.g., illegal logging or poaching) and facilitate prompt, coordinated responses (IUCN Consultation, 2025). Until these projects have been implemented, monitoring remains of some concern.
Research
There are several universities and research institutes with a tradition of conducting research in the Hyrcanian region, especially regarding forest ecosystems. Two prominent Iranian universities have established research centers in some parts for research and monitoring purposes years before the inscription. The State Party has committed to financially support research relevant for the protection of the OUV. In order to manage and protect the property efficiently, the knowledge gap regarding species distribution and restoration of deteriorated ecosystems, as well as mitigation for human-induced climate change effects on the OUV should be addressed (IUCN, 2019 & 2023; State Party of Iran, 2018; State Party of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Iran, 2023b).
Effectiveness of management system and governance in addressing threats outside the site
The three management authorities for the components in Iran are also responsible for the land-use and planning in the whole Hyrcanian region, which is a good framework for efficient management (IUCN, 2019; State Party of Iran, 2018). This is not the case for the components situated in Azerbaijan, which are managed by the Hirkan National Park Authority and they are mainly operating inside the National Park´s boundaries (State Party of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Iran, 2023b; IUCN 2023).
The current level of law enforcement and stakeholder and community engagement, as well as the level of awareness of the Outstanding Universal Value in the region, is gradually increasing promising improvements in the overall protection and management of the site and reduction of key threats. Some of the components would also benefit from larger buffer zones (IUCN 2019 & 2023).
The current level of law enforcement and stakeholder and community engagement, as well as the level of awareness of the Outstanding Universal Value in the region, is gradually increasing promising improvements in the overall protection and management of the site and reduction of key threats. Some of the components would also benefit from larger buffer zones (IUCN 2019 & 2023).
Effectiveness of management system and governance in addressing threats inside the site
The management system is adequate to maintain the site's OUV, but the level of effectiveness varies between the components. For example, the components in Golestan are well management and have a systematic approach with a comprehensive management plan system. All components have some kind of management plans, and the State Parties are working on a master plan for the whole property. There is some cooperation between local communities, NGO’s and the management authorities, but it needs to be strengthened and formalised for the whole property (IUCN, 2019 & 2023; State Party of Iran, 2018; State Party of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Iran, 2023b). The forest authority has four directorates in the region with qualified staff. Forest management in the Hyrcanian region is very careful and the academic education in forestry is influenced by the Swiss nature-based school of forest management (IUCN Consultation, 2020).
The management system is well organized and has potential to perform well, provided that it is adequately funded and that available resources are directed towards protecting the site. The forest authority is well positioned in the region with four directorates and has qualified staff. The legal framework is also sufficient, and has been further strengthened. Although tourism management is satisfactory at the national level, at regional and local levels sustainable tourism, infrastructure and awareness of the site and its implications for tourism needs to be strengthened. Iran is working on developing a Comprehensive Plan on Sustainable Tourism and awareness raising activities have been carried out both for local communities and visitors. Therefore, tourism and visitation management is gradually improving, also aided by the ecotourism regulations approved by the government in 2024. The monitoring program needs to be better connected to the site’s values and the research gap regarding species distribution and restoration of deteriorated ecosystems addressed in order to manage and protect the property efficiently. There is a project underway to develop a unified, cross-border database where Iranian and Azerbaijani authorities can input and review ecological data in real time.
Exceptional series of ancient broad-leaved forest
High Concern
Trend
Improving
Historically, human impacts such as overgrazing, logging, land encroachment and infrastructure development have led to a loss of both forest habitats and ecological connectivity of the Hyrcanian forest ecosystem both inside and outside the property (Akhani et al., 2010; IUCN, 2019 & 2023; Soofi et al., 2018). The integrity of the site has suffered but the negative impacts are considered reversible, thanks to the forest resilience and to recent decisions taken by the State Party to reduce human pressure on the forest (IUCN, 2019: IUCN Consultation, 2025). Field observations confirm pockets of natural regeneration in low-access areas, suggesting that limiting road expansion and strictly enforcing logging bans can aid forest recovery, strengthening buffer zone management along with ongoing reforestation efforts would help counteract fragmentation and support a gradual improvement in forest structure.
Ecosystem with endemic, relict and endangered species
Low Concern
Trend
Data Deficient
Poaching, illegal logging, overgrazing and collection of deadwood and wild plants occurred for decades in the property, however is now controlled or forbidden within the component parts. The construction of vast networks of roads, settlements and the urbanization of the whole region have affected the flora and fauna negatively in the past. However there is progress in monitoring the use of roads and to relocate the road from the middle of Golestan National Park to the northern edge of the park.
The knowledge of current populations of threatened and endemic species inside the property is not well documented and is partly lacking, which makes it difficult to manage and protect the OUV in an adequate manner (Akhani et al., 2010; Deljouei et al., 2018; IUCN, 2019 & 2023; Naderi et al., 2018; Soofi et al., 2018). The universities such as Tehran University and Tabiat-e Modarres University and their research centers in the component parts are working on a set of standards for species monitoring protocols across all component parts. Coordinated surveys, particularly for iconic and threatened species like the Persian Leopard, would clarify population baselines and inform targeted restoration measures aimed at safeguarding these relict and endemic taxa.
The knowledge of current populations of threatened and endemic species inside the property is not well documented and is partly lacking, which makes it difficult to manage and protect the OUV in an adequate manner (Akhani et al., 2010; Deljouei et al., 2018; IUCN, 2019 & 2023; Naderi et al., 2018; Soofi et al., 2018). The universities such as Tehran University and Tabiat-e Modarres University and their research centers in the component parts are working on a set of standards for species monitoring protocols across all component parts. Coordinated surveys, particularly for iconic and threatened species like the Persian Leopard, would clarify population baselines and inform targeted restoration measures aimed at safeguarding these relict and endemic taxa.
Assessment of the current state and trend of World Heritage values
Data Deficient
The land-use history in the region has led to a significant reduction of the Hyrcanian forest and the overall connectivity of the ecosystem. The current state of the site is fragile and needs to be strengthened with sustainable and well coordinated management measures. In order to let the forest ecosystem recover from previous negative impacts, there is a need of immediate actions to cease illegal activities inside the property and to manage the buffer zones in a sustainable way. Through improvements in legislation, the planned development of an integrated management system and projects to improve monitoring systems, the level of concern for the key attributes has decreased in recent years and there the OUV of the property will likely be well protected in the future.
Assessment of the current state and trend of other important biodiversity values
Data Deficient
Data Deficient
As a biodiversity hot-spot there are many locally as well as regionally important and threatened species (plants, birds, animals, invertebrates) in the site (IUCN, 2019 & 2023), which have been further strengthened by the recent extension. However, the lack of available monitoring data makes it difficult to comprehensively assess the current state and trend of locally and regionally important and threatened species.
Additional information
Collection of wild plants and mushrooms,
Fishing areas and conservation of fish stocks,
Livestock grazing areas
The Hyrcanian forest is considered to be a national treasure because of the diverse values it provides to Iranian and local society. The forests provide pasture for livestock, is a source for wild fruit and plants and fishing.
History and tradition,
Wilderness and iconic features,
Cultural identity and sense of belonging
The Hyrcanian forests are of very high value for the cultural identity and play an important part in local traditions. They provide excellent opportunity to experience wilderness and for recreational activities in a beautiful landscape.
Soil stabilisation,
Flood prevention,
Water provision (importance for water quantity and quality)
The Hyrcanian forests provide valuable ecosystem services, such as protection from floods and droughts, soil erosion and landslides.
The Hyrcanian forests provide valuable ecosystem services, such as food, water, recreation and protection from floods and droughts, soil erosion and landslides. All of these benefits are dependent on the rich biodiversity of the forests.
References
| № | References |
|---|---|
| 1 |
Akhani, H., Djamali M., Ghorbanalizadeh, A. and Ramezani, E. (2010). Plant biodiversity of Hyrcanian relict forests, in Iran: an overview of the flora, vegetation, paleoecology and conservation. Pakistan Journal of Botany., special issue (s.i. ali festschrift), 42: 231-258, 2010.
|
| 2 |
Alavi, S. J., Ahmadi, K.,Tabari, S. M. H. M. & Nouri Z. (2019). The response of English yew (Taxus baccata L.) to climate change in the Caspian Hyrcanian Mixed Forest ecoregion. Regional Environmental Change, 19:1495–1506.
|
| 3 |
Beiranvand, A. , Asgari, M. , Javanmiri Pour, M. , Khaki Pour, L. , & Etemad, V. (2023). The study of causes and factors of illegal logging in Caspian Forests. Iranian Journal of Forest, 15(1), 35-51. doi: 10.22034/ijf.2022.315999.181.
|
| 4 |
Deljouei, A., Sadeghi, S.M.M., Abdi, E. et al. (2018). The impact of road disturbance on vegetation and soil properties in a beech stand, Hyrcanian forest. Eur J Forest Res 137, 759–770 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10342-018-1138-8.
|
| 5 |
Global Forest Watch (n.d.) Global Forest Watch [online]. Available at: https://onetreeplanted.org/pages/global-forest-watch?ads_cm….
|
| 6 |
IUCN (2019). World Heritage Nomination – IUCN Technical Evaluation, Hyrcanian Forests (Iran). In: IUCN World Heritage Evaluations 2019, IUCN Evaluations of nominations of natural and mixed properties to the World Heritage List. WHC/19/43.COM/INF.8B2. [online] Gland, Switzerland: IUCN, pp.18-27. Available at: https://whc.unesco.org/document/176155 [Accessed November 2020].
|
| 7 |
IUCN (2023). World Heritage Nomination – IUCN Technical Evaluation, Hyrcanian Forests (Azerbaijan, Iran). In: IUCN World Heritage Evaluations 203, IUCN Evaluations of nominations of natural and mixed properties to the World Heritage List. WHC/23/45.COM/INF.8B2. pp.51-62. Available at: https://whc.unesco.org/document/205678 [Accessed December 2024].
|
| 8 |
IUCN Consultation (2020). IUCN Confidential Consultation – Hyrcanian Forests, Iran.
|
| 9 |
IUCN Consultation (2024). IUCN Confidential Consultation – Hyrcanian Forests, Iran.
|
| 10 |
Jahanifar, K., Amirnejad, H., Azadi, H., Adenle, A., & Scheffran, J. (2019). Economic analysis of land use changes in forests and rangelands: Developing conservation strategies. Land Use Policy, 88, Land Use Policy, November 2019, Vol.88.
|
| 11 |
Naderi, M., Farashi, A., & Erdi, M. (2018). Persian leopard's (Panthera pardus saxicolor) unnatural mortality factors analysis in Iran. PloS One, 13(4), E0195387.
|
| 12 |
Nippon Koei Co LTD. (2005). The Study on Integrated Management for Ecosystem Conservation of the Anzali Wetland. pp. 159.
|
| 13 |
Soofi, M., Ghoddousi, A., Zeppenfeld, T., Shokri, S., Soufi, M., Jafari, A., . . . Waltert, M. (2018). Livestock grazing in protected areas and its effects on large mammals in the Hyrcanian forest, Iran. Biological Conservation, 217(C), 377-382.
|
| 14 |
State Party of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Iran (2023a). World Heritage Nomination for the extension of the Hyrcanian Forests (1548bis)– Supplementary information. Available at: https://whc.unesco.org/document/192078 [Accessed December 2024].
|
| 15 |
State Party of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Iran (2023b). World Heritage Nomination for the extension of the Hyrcanian Forests (1548bis) - Nomination Dossier. Available at: https://whc.unesco.org/document/186544 [Accessed December 2024].
|
| 16 |
State Party of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Iran (2024). Periodic Reporting Cycle 3, Section II: Hyrcanian Forests (Azerbaijan, Islamic Republic of Iran). [online] Available at: https://whc.unesco.org/document/218054 [Accessed on 1 August 2025]
|
| 17 |
State Party of Iran (2018). Nomination of Hyrcanian Forests as a World Heritage Site. [online]. Available at: https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1584/documents/ [Accessed November 2020].
|
| 18 |
State Party of the Islamic Republic of Iran (2023). World Heritage Nomination for the extension of the Hyrcanian Forests (1548bis)– Annex IV Summary report of actions taken after the inscription of the Hyrcanian Forests. Available at: https://whc.unesco.org/document/190330 [Accessed December 2024].
|
| 19 |
Sękiewicz, K., Salvà-Catarineu, M., Walas, Ł., Romo, A., Gholizadeh, H., Naqinezhad, A., ... & Boratyński, A. (2024). Consequence of habitat specificity: a rising risk of habitat loss for endemic and sub-endemic woody species under climate change in the Hyrcanian ecoregion. Regional Environmental Change, 24(2).
|
| 20 |
Tegler, B. & Mirghasemi, A. (2019): Terminal Evaluation of the Caspian Hyrcanian Forest Project (CHFP). Building a Multiple-use Forest Management Framework to Conserve Biodiversity in the Caspian Hyrcanian Forest Landscape. FRWO, UNEP, GEF, CHFP.
|
| 21 |
Tohidifar, M., Moser, M., Zehzad, B, and Ghadirian, T. (2016). Biodiversity of the Hyrcanian Forests: A synthesis report. UNDP/GEF/FRWO Caspian Hyrcanian Forest Project. Iran. 41 pp.
|
| 22 |
World Heritage Committee (2019). Decision: 43 COM 8B.4 Hyrcanian Forests (Islamic Republic of Iran). In: Decisions adopted during the 43rd session of the World Heritage Committee (Baku, 2019). [online] Paris, France: UNESCO World Heritage Centre, pp.211-213. Available at: <https://whc.unesco.org/en/decisions/7359>; [Accessed July 2020].
|
| 23 |
World Heritage Committee (2023). Decision: 43 COM 8B.5 Hyrcanian Forests (Azerbaijan, Islamic Republic of Iran). In: Decisions adopted during the 45th session of the World Heritage Committee (Riyadh, 2023). Available at: https://whc.unesco.org/en/decisions/8386 [Accessed December 2024].
|
| 24 |
Zarandian, A., Baral, H., Yavari, A.R., Jafari, H.R., Stork, N.E., Ling, M.A. & Amirnejad, H. (2015). Anthropogenic Decline of Ecosystem Services Threatens the Integrity of the Unique Hyrcanian (Caspian) Forests in Northern Iran. Forests 7, 51. doi:10.3390/f7030051
|