Saving Kuyalnik: A Cleanup Initiative
On September 12, 2025, a large-scale cleanup event took place on the shores of Kuyalnik Liman, organized by the National Nature Park "Kuyalnik", GoGlobalUA NGO, and the Black Sea Saltworks.
The primary goal of the event was to draw attention to the critical condition of the liman and to initiate practical actions for its preservation.
Due to prolonged drought and high temperatures, the water level in the liman has dropped by nearly a third. A dense layer of salt has formed on the bottom and shores, threatening the ecosystem and the healing properties of the mud. The recorded salinity of the water exceeds 300 parts per thousand, which is significantly above the norm. This situation is a serious alarm for the entire region.
More than a hundred participants, armed with shovels and sieves, manually collected around kg of excess salt from the shores. This initiative became a symbol of what can be achieved through collective efforts.
Participants were treated not only to work but also to refreshments: pilaf, fish soup, and gingerbread made with spelt flour, honey, and ginger, enhanced with a pinch of Kuyalnik salt. Each gingerbread had a symbolic mark emphasizing the uniqueness of the moment.
As part of the event, organizers prepared and sent an open letter to the President and the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine, urging:
- the establishment of a working group within the government to study the condition of the liman;
- a complete inventory of existing research;
- the development of a comprehensive action program;
- the provision of funding for the implementation of liman rescue measures.
Kuyalnik Liman is a treasure that must be preserved for future generations. Together, we can restore life to this natural gem of Odesa!
