Reindeer thriving in Russia’s Far East after years of decline
Published: 20 March, 2008, 06:18
Chukotka in Russia’s Far East is the only place in the world where the number of reindeer is constantly on the increase. Up to $US 15 million is spent every year to support reindeer breeding in the region.
The animals provide people with food, clothing, shelter and very often with transport.
Just 20 years ago there were 500,000 reindeer in the area. After the crisis of the 1990s only a fifth were left. In some villages whole herds were slaughtered.
With the region about to lose its key resource, the government took tough measures. In 2001 the Chukotka authorities declared a moratorium meaning it was forbidden to slaughter reindeer for five years.
Reindeer breeders are provided with transport and weapons. They get a good salary from the state and receive a bonus for the herd's growth.
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