UNESCO/Toson-Khulstai Biosphere Reserve
Irati
General information
Irati Biosphere Reserve is located within the mid-mountain expanse of the western Pyrenees. Encompassing the picturesque valleys of Salazar and Aezkoa in the northeastern reaches of Navarre, it spans 537 km² and is home to 2 435 inhabitants.
Detailed information
Key data
Year of nomination
2024
Country
Spain
Total population
2435
Area
Surface
53,660.00 ha
Total terresterial area
53,660.00 ha
Location
Latitiude: 42.9200956 - Longitude: 1.141871944
Ecological Characteristics
A haven for biodiversity, the biosphere reserve has expansive beech and beech-fir forests. The area beech forest is the second-largest in Europe.
Socio-Economics Characteristics
The territory has a population of 2,435 inhabitants located entirely in the transition area. Actively engaged in the nomination process since 2015, the local community has played a pivotal role in shaping the management structure of the biosphere reserve. This structure includes an executive board and advisory board representing diverse stakeholders, ranging from cultural and conservation associations to women's groups. The Irati Biosphere Reserve’s management plan stands as a testament to the biosphere reserve’s community-driven conservation efforts.
