Children from the Semey Child Support Centre for those in need of special social services were taught about behaviour rules in the forest and safety measures during an ecological excursion at the state forest nature reserve “Semey Ormany”.
The excursion was organised as part of the environmental programme “Taza Kazakhstan” and took place on the territory of the reserve, located along the Pavlodar highway. The aim of such meetings is to increase children’s interest in nature, build an understanding of the importance of environmental protection, and teach them to observe safety requirements within the forest area.
HOW THE EXCURSION WENT
The children were accompanied by staff from the Krasnokordon Forestry Enterprise, who explained the rules of behaviour and safety measures in the forest. Particular attention was paid to fire safety rules: the children were told that within the forest area it is forbidden to light campfires, leave rubbish, harm nature, or move through the forest without observing the established rules.
“The forest area is very large and is protected at state level. Therefore, it is not permissible to be on this territory without control. First and foremost, visitors must carefully observe safety rules. Lighting campfires is forbidden. You must also not leave rubbish or cause damage to nature. We gave the children the necessary explanations and recommendations on these matters,” said Kuanysh Kairkhanov, head of the Krasnokordon Forestry Enterprise of the State Forest Nature Reserve “Semey Ormany”.
WHAT THE CHILDREN LEARNED
The specialists told the children about the plants growing in the forest area, as well as the animals and birds that live there and their role in maintaining the natural balance. The children were reminded that rubbish must only be disposed of in designated areas, that they should not damage plants, harm birds or animals, light campfires in the forest, and that they must comply with fire safety requirements.
During the excursion, the children observed the forest’s wildlife, took note of the different plant species, and were able to ask the specialists questions about the environment that interested them.
THE CHILDREN’S IMPRESSIONS
“Today we spent time in nature and were amazed at how large this forest is. The nature here is very beautiful and the air is clean. The foresters told us how important it is to keep the environment clean and to protect nature. Today we learned a great deal that was new to us,” said the centre’s children.
