In a heartfelt reflection on the work of the Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL), General Director Assad Serhal emphasized the organization’s commitment to fostering harmony between communities and nature through its Hima Farms initiative.
During a field visit with Andre Bechara, owner of Hammana Hima Farm, Serhal stated: “Our collaboration with Hima farms reflects SPNL’s core mission to connect communities through conservation. The EU BioConnect project has played a pivotal role in linking various Hima sites—communal forests, Hima farms, and gardens—to promote sustainable land use and biodiversity preservation. In these challenging times, we believe that fostering a positive outlook and reconnecting with nature can create a meaningful impact.”
Reviving Ancient Agricultural Practices
Andre Bechara, one of SPNL’s Hima Farm Heroes, highlighted the ongoing efforts to restore and utilize neglected dry stone terraces, a hallmark of Lebanon’s agricultural heritage.
“We are working to revive these ancient terraces, which are not just a symbol of our history but also vital for sustainable farming,” said Bechara. “This season, we are focusing on activities like preparing natural fertilizer from goat manure, maintaining the Hima farm pond, and nurturing the land at Hima Hammana with its breathtaking backdrop. These efforts link directly to the broader vision of establishing the Natural Park in Lamartine Valley, which will support similar farms in the surrounding villages and foster a network of conservation-driven communities.”
A Holistic Approach to Conservation
Hima, derived from the Arabic word for community-based protected areas, is at the heart of SPNL’s conservation strategy. The Hima programs aim to:
- Develop sustainable management plans for Hima sites.
- Improve the quality of life for local communities.
- Encourage coexistence between people, animals, and natural resources.
“The Hima concept is a place where humans live in harmony with their environment. It’s ideal for innovation and for promoting the health benefits of traditional agricultural products,” Serhal explained.
Spotlight on Hima Farms
Hima Farms, particularly in the Beqaa and Mount Lebanon regions, exemplify the synergy of traditional practices and modern techniques. These farms:
- Work with local farmers to ensure environmentally friendly production.
- Combine traditional methods with innovative approaches to foster cultural exchange and knowledge sharing.
- Promote the health benefits of traditional foods and guarantee quality.
“Our Hima Farms are rooted in key values: conserving nature, reconnecting people with the environment, and fostering sustainable farming. They provide opportunities for youth and women, preserve native plants, and ensure financial sustainability,” Serhal said.
The Heroes of Hima
SPNL acknowledges the tireless efforts of local farmers, whom they call “Hima Farm Heroes.” These individuals are committed to sustainable agriculture, despite the challenges they face.
“Our farmers are more than heroes; they are the backbone of our communities. By supporting them, whether through donations, equipment, or expertise, we can sow the seeds of hope and resilience across Lebanon,” Serhal added.
Future Goals
SPNL aims to enhance its Hima Farm Program by addressing key challenges such as equipping the Hima Kitchen and repairing the water pond at Hammana Hima Farm. These initiatives are part of a broader effort to establish Hima Farms as models for sustainable farming, eco-tourism, and nature education.
Bechara also emphasized the role of these efforts in a larger vision: “The work we are doing here not only preserves the land but also builds the foundation for a sustainable future. Linking Hima Farms to the Lamartine Valley Natural Park will create opportunities for surrounding villages, offering a model of conservation that combines nature, culture, and economic resilience.”
A Call to Action
Support the SPNL’s mission by connecting with a Hima Farm Hero and contributing to the conservation of Lebanon’s rich natural heritage. Together, we can ensure a sustainable and harmonious future for all. As Serhal concluded, “Plant seeds of happiness, hope, and love; they will come back to you in abundance.”
