Stanichno-Luhansk Reserve

The site is set back from the Donets River itself, on the terrace supporting a strip of flood lakes about 50 meters above sea level. In the 1990s the lakes in the middle of the reserve were frequently connected to the river by flooding. The soils are chernozym (black soils) on 15–20 meters of alluvium and limestone rocks.[1]

The official climate designation for the Stanichno-Luhansk area is ""Humid continental climate - warm summer sub-type"" (Köppen climate classification Dfb), with large seasonal temperature differentials and a warm summer (at least four months averaging over 10 °C (50 °F), but no month averaging over 22 °C (72 °F). The growing season lasts 200–210 days. The average annual precipitation is 460 mm, but varies from 300-680.[1]

The reserve is covered mostly with deciduous forest (70%), meadow-steppe, and floodplain lakes. The lower sandy regions near the river feature willow and poplar; on the terrace are oak forests.[1]

As a strict nature reserve, Stanichno-Luhansk's primary purpose is protection of nature and scientific study. Public access is limited: mass recreation and construction of facilities is prohibited as are hunting and fishing.[1]

• Lists of Nature Preserves of Ukraine (class Ia protected areas)
• National Parks of Ukraine (class II protected areas)

• Map of Stanichno-Luhansk Reserve on OpenStreetMap.org
• Map of the Stanichno-Luhansk Reserve (PDF)

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