Changes in the spatial organization of the Volga-Akhtuba floodplain nature park

The Volga-Akhtuba floodplain is a unique intrazonal ecosystem of the Lower Volga. For many years, the landscapes of the area suffered from an intensive anthropogenic impact, starting with the commissioning of the Volga Hydroelectric Power Plant. Increasing anthropogenic pressure, high ecological value and standing out against the background of semi-desert areas led to the inclusion of this area into the Volga-Akhtuba Floodplain Nature Park in 2000. This article analyses the changes in the functional zoning of the nature park at the beginning of active conservation activities and present. The authors reveal the main hotspots of economic activity represented by agriculture in the region and farmsteads, which include settlements, horticultural societies and their linear infrastructure (road and transport network). In addition, they identify forest ecosystems of particular ecological and aesthetic value. The analysis of the economic impact and distribution of unique forest ecosystems provides an assessment of the changes in the spatial organisation of the area.