Lebanon: planting native trees ensures that the ecosystem can sustain them (Green Prophet)

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http://www.greenprophet.com/2010/12/lebanon-ngo-plants-ancient-species-to-reclaim-arid-land/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+greenprophet+%28Green+Prophet%29

Lebanon NGO Plants Ancient Species to Reclaim Arid Land

Hannah Katsman

Sawdust from Lebanese cedars has been found in ancient Egyptian tombs, and the Bible recounts how the trees were brought to Jerusalem for the building of Solomon’s Temple.  The cedar even appears on the Lebanese flag. But with climate change and the devastation caused by forest fires, Lebanon can’t take these great trees for granted.

Fortunately, the local NGO Jouzour Loubnan has stepped into the breach and begun planting three ancient species— cedars, almonds and carob. Carob and almond provide fruit, while planting native trees ensures that the ecosystem can sustain them.

The NGO is being assisted by the Lebanese Armed Forces and the United  Nations Interim Force in Lebanon. Jouzour Loubnan co-founder Hiba Aboushosn said, “Our system has proved very successful and our tree survival rate is around 90 percent. . . . For every one of our trees that die we make sure we plant another one . . . but our main focus is not reforestation and we largely work on [reclaiming] land.”

The trees will be watched carefully during the first three years to protect them from livestock and disease. Most trees will be planted strategically in high, arid places where they will have the most effect on the environment and encourage biodiversity.

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