# Atlyn Dala Conservation Initiative in Kazakhstan

Saigas on the grassland of Almaty, Kazakhstan, May 28, 2021. [Photo/VCG]

Since 2005, this initiative has been restoring degraded steppe, semi-desert and desert ecosystems across the historic habitat of the saiga antelope, a once-abundant species critically endangered by hunting and habitat loss.

Through its efforts, the saiga population has grown from less than 50,000 in 2006 to over 1.3 million in 2022, with Kazakhstan alone accounting for 95% of the global saiga population.

In addition to rejuvenating the declining steppe in central Asia, the initiative has helped conserve wetlands, prevent wildfires and improve the livelihoods of local herders. 

The extent of newly protected areas and ecological corridors: 5 million hectares

Number of households expected to benefit by 2030: 600