Russia is an incredibly vast country with a wonderful and diverse nature. In each part of it you can see truly unique climatic conditions. An area such as the Volga region is no exception. The natural resources located here amaze with special wealth. For example, these places are distinguished by one of the most favorable conditions for agriculture and the cultivation of various crops. The article will discuss what the Volga region is, where it is located and what resources are rich.
General characteristics of the area
To begin with, it is worth giving a definition of the Volga region. This word can be heard quite often, but not everyone knows exactly where it is. So, this is a geographical area, which includes several large areas. Generally speaking, it includes territories that are adjacent to the Volga River. Thus, it can be noted that in the Volga region there are several parts - the middle and lower reaches of the river. These areas are highly dependent on the river in economic terms. From the point of view of natural zones, the Volga region also includes territories that are located in the upper reaches of the river. This is really a significant part of Russia, which makes a huge contribution to the economy and industry of the whole country, largely due to its favorable climate. The natural conditions and resources of the Volga region help this region to produce a large number of livestock and agricultural products.
Where is this area located?
Now it’s worth to tell more precisely about where these wonderful territories are located. The geographical position of the Volga region, as already mentioned, significantly contributes to the development of many sectors of the economy. It is interesting to know which regions are included in its composition. Among them stand out:
- Upper Volga (this includes such areas as Moscow, Yaroslavl, Kostroma and others);
- Middle Volga (includes the Ulyanovsk and Samara region, and others);
- Lower Volga (includes the Republic of Tatarstan, several regions: Ulyanovsk, Saratov and others).
Thus, it becomes clear that this area really covers a huge territory. So, we examined the geographical location of the Volga region, and now it’s worth talking about its natural and climatic conditions.
The climate of the Volga region
If we consider such a large geographical area, of course, you need to talk separately about its climate, since in different parts it can be very different. As for the relief, plains and lowlands prevail here. The climate in some parts of the region is temperate continental, in others - continental. Summer is usually warm, in July the average temperature reaches about +22 - +25 C. The winter is relatively cold, the average January temperature ranges from -10 C to -15 C.
It is interesting to consider the natural zones in which the Volga lies. They also vary greatly from north to south of the area. This includes mixed forest, forest-steppe, steppe and even semi-deserts. Thus, it becomes clear what climatic and natural zones the Volga region covers. Natural resources are also found in large quantities. It is worth telling more about them.
What natural resources are rich in the Volga region: water, agricultural, oil
Since the area covers a large number of natural zones, we can safely talk about the diversity of resources in it. Of course, first of all, it is worth noting that the Volga region is rich in water resources. With their help, the district receives a significant amount of electricity. On the Volga there are many hydroelectric power stations, among which we can especially note the hydroelectric power stations in Dubna, in Uglich and in Rybinsk, in Cheboksary. You can also often hear about the Zhigulevskaya, Saratov and Volzhskaya hydroelectric power stations. Thus, we can say that water resources make up a significant share in this area.
Also, the Volga region is rich in fertile soils, which are represented by podzolic soils and chernozem, which favors the cultivation of crops. Speaking generally about the economy of the district, most of it is occupied by fodder crops (almost 70%), as well as cereals (more than 20%). Often you can also find vegetables and melons (about 4%).
It should be noted and oil resources in the Volga region. Oil was found here a very long time ago, but its production in the area began in the middle of the 20th century. Now there are about 150 fields that are being actively developed. Most of them are located in Tatarstan, as well as in the Samara region.
Other natural resources
It is worth telling other things that the Volga region is rich in. Natural resources here, as already mentioned, are very diverse. Many people like to relax on the Volga, and this is not surprising. The area is well saturated with recreational resources. Holidays in these places have always been popular, the local nature contributes to relaxation. Such popularity of tourism in the Volga region is due to the favorable climate, as well as a large number of cultural monuments and attractions in these places.
Among natural resources, it is worth highlighting biological ones separately. In the Volga region there is a huge number of animals, both fodder and wild. There are many species of birds. In the Volga reservoirs, you can also find various types of fish. There are even rare sturgeon breeds.
So, now we know what you can see, going to the Volga region. Natural resources here are striking in their abundance and diversity.
