European Geographical Studies

32-37

Authors: Tsisana Basilashvili

This article gives analysis of basic indicators of natural potential and usage of world and South Caucasus water resources, also discusses global problems of their condition. We should also note that ecologically sound, fresh water resources are one of the most important factors for sustainable development of the country economy. In the course of centuries up to recent decade, people assumed that water, air, forest and soil are elements of nature that can be utilized eternally and in any quantities. Though, due to population growth, industry and agriculture development, water demand has increased and resulted in sharp decrease of water resources. Against the background of present global climate warming and increase of man-made actions, water resources get intensively contaminated that finds extremely negative impact on development of the country economy and finally becomes a reason for different conflicts. This contributed to raising the question of rational usage and protection of water resources. Future growth of water consumption shall be grounded on increased level of river flow monitoring via construction of regulating water reservoirs. In agriculture, it is required to expand the network of sprinklers and introduce dripping irrigation. Important is also problem of stimulation of atmospheric precipitations for expansion of incoming water balance. Necessary complex schemes for water resource utilization shall be developed and protected based on reservoir management principles. Besides, the given work recommends set of measures for improvement of water resource management level.

51-56

Authors: Inna V. Buzyakova, Marina V. Dmitrievа

The natural conditions of the Astrakhan region largely differ from the natural conditions of most regions of Russia. The position of the area in the zone of deserts and semi-deserts causes its exoticism and uniqueness of environment increases the recreational appeal. It is favorably combines in the Astrakhan region the advantageous geographical position, natural potential and rich cultural heritage. This unique mix of historical, cultural and natural environment creates a good basis and perspective for the functional areas of planning for the development of tourism and recreation activities. The article examines the landscapes of delta of Volga river and the Volga-Akhtuba floodplain.

63-71

Authors: Elizaveta V. Kolotova

The article discusses the modern tendencies and experience of development of Northern territories in the Arctic sector – European (Norway, Sweden, Finland) and American (Canada, USA). The author comes to the following conclusions:  the involvement of national communities to tourist programs solves both social and environmental problems of communities;  social activity of national communities is possible only under condition of formation of corporate relations to tourism, the population that requires long and systematic outreach specialists in the community; the success of the tourism service is achieved after preliminary training of tourism service marketing and management that continually is a specially created organization "NUNANUT TOURISM", which not only conducts regular practical classes with the population, but also issued him with the help of the Agency "Parks Canada" (parks Canada), a special study guide, where at a very accessible language presented the fundamentals of cruise services in the national community and the principles of the tour operator.