Problems of recreational nature management in the north-east Caucasus (geoecological aspect)

The study was aimed at identifying pressing problems that limit sustainable (balanced) recreational nature management in the North-East Caucasus. In the course of the analysis of approaches to the organisation of recreation and the state of the tourist and recreational sphere, regulatory and legislative acts, official statistics of regional ministries and periodicals were used, together with systemic, settlement, literary and analytical and comparative geographical methods. The graphic material was developed using Draw.io software and Microsoft Office Excel 2013. The dominant role of recreational nature management in mountain region conditions was noted. Justification of need to find a balance between satisfaction of the recreational needs of the population and ecologically safe forms of recreation and tourism were determined. It has been proven that the tourist and recreational potential is only used to insignificant extent. A complex of interrelated and mutually agreed geopolitical, geoecological, legal, social and economic problems limiting the rational use of recreational resources was identified. Particular emphasis in the context of the development of environmentally oriented types of tourism is placed on the problem of insufficient development of a system of ecological paths and routes, as well as poor engagement of specially protected natural areas in the fields of recreation and tourism. Against the background of regional tourist and recreational potential, the authors associate the prospects for sustainable recreational nature management in the north-east Caucasus with the solution of the problems identified in this work. It is assumed that their resolution will have a multiplicative effect in the economy, social sphere and for geoecological security. It is also necessary to develop a scientifically based concept for the rational use of recreational resources, which corresponds with the strategic goals of the development of the tourism industry of the nation and ensuring interregional cooperation in organising recreation and tourism.