Hatam-Meshasi Forest Reserve of Meshgin-Shahr, Ardabil Province

Today, forest reserves are of great interest in protecting biological diversity (plant and animal) and preventing the extinction of many important plant and animal species. The Hatam Meshesi Forest Reserve, with an area of 195.6 hectares, located 28 kilometers west of Meshgin Shahr of Ardebil province, is one of the most valuable reserves in Iran. This forest is a part of Arasbaran forests in terms of location, climatic and habitat conditions, and is therefore very rich in plant diversity and vegetation. The most important species of this forest is Caucasian oak (Quercus macranthera Fisch. & C. A. Mey.), distributed at an altitude of 1740 to 1950 m.a.s.l. In this forest, four main forest types including pure Quercus macranthera, Quercus macranthera–Acer campetre, Quercus macranthera–Fraxinus excelsior, Crtataegus microphylla-Prunus spinosa can be distinguished. In total, 31 species of trees and shrubs, belonging to 11 families and 23 genera, have been identified, indicating a significant diversity of woody species in this forest. In recent years, the conversion of forest and rangeland use into agriculture, grazing, and cutting down trees for coal mining and the use of firewood have been influential factors in the destruction of this valuable reserve. Therefore, to reach a favorable state, the responsible organizations must pay more attention to the protection of this habitat. With attention to the conservation value of this reserve, the implementation of development programs and worthless investments aimed at attracting tourists to the region should be strictly excluded.