Vorotan

Vorotan is a significant river in Armenia, forming part of the border with Azerbaijan's exclave of Nakhchivan. Rising in the Vorotan Valleys of the Vayots Dzor Province, it flows southeast and enters the Aras River, near Joughi. The Vorotan River has a total length of approximately 165 kilometers and drains a catchment area that is 3,270 square kilometers in size.

The river's drainage area encompasses the Vorotan Forest National Park and is characterized by limestone and volcanic rocks. Vorotan's riverbed is attributed to its relatively high gradient, resulting in steeper slopes and a more irregular course compared to other rivers in the region.

Vorotan has played a crucial role in the economic development of the surrounding areas, notably through the formation of several lakes that significantly enhance the local ecosystem. A notable example is Yeghegis River, an affluent of the Vorotan, collecting water from numerous mountain ravines.

Commercial activities in and around Vorotan largely revolve around agriculture and natural resource management, particularly forestry. Historically, the region along the river is recognized for producing quality wine. Today, there is renewed interest in wine production from local farmers using French and indigenous grape varieties.

In terms of its ecosystem, Vorotan provides water for numerous villages and historical and cultural sites. Combining a fragile setting with damaging climate and periodic drought incidents makes the degradation of ecosystems along Vorotan high-risk. Through local awareness and projects from environmental organizations, there is a concerted but slow effort underway to restore the ecosystem.