Forest fragmentation.  In this photograph, the fragmentation of the West-Siberian forest by oil field development is clearly shown (Photo by V. N. Sedykh).

Oil and gas exploration and development dominate Western Siberia (Photo by V. N. Sedykh).

Waste pits are one of the most problematic reclamation sites.  Filled with oil drilling wastes, mud, and waste oil, they are particularly difficult to revegetate.  Natural revegetation in sites such as shown below are leading researchers towards selection of suitable plant species for artificial and accelerated revegetation of such sites (Photo by V. N. Sedykh).

Here, willow species are planted in some of the first experimental reclamation plots.  This research is being conducted by Dr. Vladimir N. Sedykh, Chief Scientist of the West-Siberian Branch of the Sukachev Institute of Forests (Photo by V. N. Sedykh).

Western Siberia is the home to many native peoples, including Khanty, Selkups, and Mansiskiy.  Oil field development and the resulting Russification of these native peoples is reducting the cultural diversity of our planet and having serious negative impacts on these cultures.  Here, some Khanty children from the village of Chistobirsk observe American forest scientists visiting their town.

Oil recovery on an west-Siberian river.  The river is between 5-10% by volume crude oil.  Two surface skimmers are capturing floating oil which is then sold to refineries.