The Urgent Need for Water Harvesting in West Bekaa: Combating the Drying of Qaraoun Lake, Litani River, and Ammiq Wetland

By Wassim El Khatib Fish & Wildlife Unit Manager

After extensive monitoring by the Fish & Wildlife Unit, alarming signs of water depletion and environmental degradation have been recorded across Qaraoun Lake, the Litani River, and Ammiq Wetland. The findings confirm that climate change, irregular rainfall, and increased water consumption are accelerating the drying of these essential water bodies, putting local communities, agriculture, and biodiversity at risk.

With Qaraoun Lake’s water levels drastically dropping, sections of the Litani River experiencing severe drought, and Ammiq Wetland facing habitat loss, urgent intervention is required. Water harvesting is a key solution that can help mitigate these effects, restore ecological balance, and secure water for future generations.

Findings from Fish & Wildlife Unit Monitoring

🔴 Qaraoun Lake Drying Up:

• Water levels have reached critical lows, affecting both irrigation supply and hydroelectric power production.
• Increased water extraction and pollution have accelerated the lake’s degradation.

🔴 Litani River Facing Water Shortages:

• Severe drought conditions have resulted in lower river flow, threatening agriculture and local water supply.
• Pollution and sediment accumulation have further reduced water quality, making it unsuitable for many uses.

🔴 Ammiq Wetland Under Threat:

• The wetland, a vital biodiversity hotspot, is shrinking due to reduced groundwater recharge and climate change.
• Migratory birds, fish, and local wildlife are losing their habitats, disrupting ecological balance.

Water Harvesting: A Solution for West Bekaa’s Water Crisis

To counteract the drying of these critical water bodies, the Fish & Wildlife Unit urges the immediate adoption of water harvesting solutions. These techniques can help store, conserve, and efficiently utilize rainwater, reducing reliance on shrinking water sources.

1. Restoring Water for Agriculture

• Farmers can adopt rainwater collection systems to supplement irrigation.
• Constructing small reservoirs and underground water storage tanks can help store excess rainwater for dry seasons.
• Using drip irrigation and efficient water management practices can significantly reduce water waste.

2. Supporting Hydroelectric Power & Energy Stability

• Water harvesting can help stabilize Qaraoun Lake levels, ensuring continued hydroelectric power production.
• Strategic water management can help regulate seasonal water releases to support energy generation.

3. Protecting Local Communities from Water Shortages

• Encouraging households to install rooftop rainwater harvesting systems can provide an alternative water source.
• Rehabilitating natural water catchments can help replenish groundwater and prevent further ecosystem loss.
• Raising awareness on responsible water use can encourage conservation and reduce wasteful consumption.

Call to Action: A Collective Effort for Water Security

Based on its findings, the Fish & Wildlife Unit calls on all stakeholders—farmers, municipalities, conservation organizations, and the government—to take immediate action:
✅ Implement large-scale rainwater harvesting projects to replenish groundwater and lakes.
✅ Train farmers on sustainable irrigation techniques to optimize water use.
✅ Develop policies for better water resource management and pollution control.
✅ Educate communities about the importance of conservation and climate resilience.

A Sustainable Future for West Bekaa

With Qaraoun Lake, the Litani River, and Ammiq Wetland under serious threat, the need for sustainable water management has never been greater. Water harvesting offers a lifeline to ensure a stable water supply for agriculture, electricity, and biodiversity conservation.

The time to act is now. By embracing water harvesting and conservation strategies, we can protect our natural resources, secure our future, and build resilience against climate change.