Emerging
May 26, 20261
Russia launches first comprehensive scientific expedition along Sotka River in Arkhangelsk region
Russia has launched the first comprehensive expedition along the Sotka River in the Pinezhsky Nature Reserve in the Arkhangelsk region. The kayak-based mission involves 30 participants, including scientists and cosmonaut Ivan Vagner, and will study the river's ecology and nearby caves through May 29.
Quick Facts
- launched a comprehensive expedition along the Sotka River
- used kayaks and other non-motorized watercraft for the route
- conducted ecological sampling and hydrological measurements
- visited karst caves and measured radon levels
- announced plans for at least two more expeditions along the river
A first-of-its-kind scientific expedition has begun along the Sotka, a canyon-type river in the Pinezhsky Nature Reserve in Russia's Arkhangelsk region. The project, titled "North - Territory of Discoveries," started in Arkhangelsk and brings together specialists from the Russian Arctic National Park, several research centres, and cosmonaut and Hero of Russia Ivan Vagner.
The official launch took place at the Sokolov Sports School, where Vagner met young kayaking athletes before joining the team. The expedition is being carried out on kayaks and includes 30 participants. Organisers said the route will cross the protected reserve area, with camps set up under fire-safety rules and other environmental requirements.
Scientists plan to assess the ecological condition of the river and surrounding areas by sampling water, soil, vegetation and sediments, as well as measuring turbidity, depth and flow velocity. Researchers will also examine karst caves along the route and measure radon levels inside them. The work is intended to identify monitoring sites and build a basis for further research on the Sotka at different times of year.
The Sotka is the only canyon-type river in the Arkhangelsk region and runs for about 40 kilometres through the specially protected area. Russian Arctic National Park director Alexander Kirilov said the expedition marks the start of a broader scientific programme, with at least two more trips along the river already planned. The expedition is due to finish on May 29.
Why This Matters
This expedition could create the first detailed scientific baseline for a rare canyon river in a protected Arctic-region reserve, helping authorities identify sensitive sites, track environmental change, and plan future monitoring. For researchers and conservation planners, the data on water, soil, vegetation, sediment, flow, and cave radon levels can inform seasonal studies, protected-area management, and any future restrictions or tourism planning along the Sotka.
Timeline & Sources
Jan 1, 2025
WireThe White Sea - Kuloy Plateau came under management by the National Park.
May 26, 2026
WireThe first comprehensive expedition along the Sotka River began in Arkhangelsk.
May 26, 2026
WireThe expedition was officially launched at the Sokolov Sports School, where Ivan Vagner met young kayaking athletes.
May 26, 2026
WireA 30-person team set off on kayaks to study the river, surrounding ecosystems and karst caves.
May 29, 2026
WireThe expedition is scheduled to conclude.