Considering the recommendations from local non-governmental organizations, the management of Bakhvi HPP invited an independent Georgian expert, Niko Kerdikoshvili, a Master of Ecology and Manager of Scientific Programs at Tbilisi Zoological Park, in 2022 to conduct a detailed study on the potential impact on the otter population as part of the biodiversity research. The company asserts that caring for protected species is of utmost importance to them. These protected species include those listed in Georgia's Red List as well as those protected by the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature).
The objective of the otter population study was to assess the status of the Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra) population in the project area designated for the construction of the Bakhvi 2 (2a-2b) HPP on the Bakhvistsqali River.
Specifically, the study aimed to:
• Identify signs of the Eurasian otter’s presence (tracks, excrement, dens) directly in the research area; • Provide a general assessment of the food base; • Identify areas significant for the Eurasian otter (feeding, denning) based on the frequency of activity signs; • Develop appropriate recommendations and mitigation measures. General Conclusions of the Study: • The presence of several individual otters was recorded within the project area; • The planned project structures are of small scale, thus large reservoirs will not be created, and this will not significantly impact the otter's habitat; • Given the proximity to important otter areas, if the construction processes are carried out according to the recommendations, the intake structures of the size planned within the Bakhvi 2 framework will not create insurmountable barriers for the otters; • Maintaining the food base, it is recommended to minimize potential river pollution to the greatest extent possible.
Summary Conclusion: Taking into account the recommendations provided in the report, the risk of harming the otters residing in the Bakhvistsqali River will be minimized, and no additional mitigation measures will be necessary.
Please find the complete study document here: