Btekhnay is a town where nature, history, and culture intertwine. Known as the “Land of Black Gold”, the town’s vast pine forests have long been a source of livelihood and pride for its people. From its Italian-style houses and historic springs to its thriving eco-tourism scene, Btekhnay has always been a hidden gem of Lebanon.
Today, the town has taken a bold new step in conservation—declaring Lebanon’s first Endowment Hima, solidifying its commitment to protecting biodiversity, preserving its pine heritage, and promoting sustainable rural development.
The Black Gold of Btekhnay
Btekhnay’s pine forests are more than just trees—they are the lifeblood of the community. Covering 60% of the town’s land, these forests provide:
🌲 Pine nuts, a crucial source of income for local farmers.
🌍 Clean air, as the trees naturally filter pollution and produce oxygen.
🦉 A habitat for wildlife, including birds, foxes, and native flora.
Yet, despite their beauty and ecological importance, these forests have faced numerous threats—from deforestation and urban expansion to devastating wildfires.
A Town Scarred by Fire
The darkest chapter in Btekhnay’s environmental history is written in ashes. In recent years, wildfires have ravaged large sections of the town’s pine forests, leaving behind blackened tree trunks and barren landscapes where lush greenery once thrived.
🔥 Wildfires in 2020 and 2022 destroyed thousands of trees, displacing wildlife and threatening the town’s agricultural economy.
🚒 Local efforts, including volunteer firefighting teams, managed to contain some of the damage, but restoration remains a long road ahead.
💔 Many residents recall the heartbreaking sight of their beloved pine forests reduced to smoldering ruins overnight.
A New Beginning: Lebanon’s First Endowment Hima
But from the ashes, hope has risen. On March 13, 2025, the Btekhnay Endowment Council declared the town’s forests a Hima, joining 33 other conservation sites across Lebanon. This historic decision marks the beginning of a new era of environmental protection in Btekhnay.
Through this community-managed nature reserve, Btekhnay aims to:
✔️ Prevent further deforestation through strict land protection policies.
✔️ Restore burned areas by planting new trees and rehabilitating damaged ecosystems.
✔️ Promote eco-tourism, offering hiking trails, camping spots, and guided nature experiences.
✔️ Educate future generations on sustainability and the importance of forest conservation.
The Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL), in partnership with the Municipality of Btekhnay, will provide technical expertise and advisory support to ensure the Hima’s success. This initiative is part of the Bioconnect project, funded by the EU, aimed at fostering sustainable environmental practices and enhancing the region’s ecological and economic resilience.
Reviving the Forest, Empowering the People
This Hima is more than just conservation—it’s about revitalizing the community:
🏡 Local farmers will benefit from sustainable agricultural programs like the Hima Farm Initiative.
🌿 Young environmental activists will take part in the Hima Guardians Program, leading reforestation projects.
👩🎨 Women will have new job opportunities through the Hima Market, showcasing local crafts and produce.
🎒 Students will engage in outdoor education with the School With No Walls (SNOW) Program, fostering a deep connection to nature.
A Future Rooted in Conservation
From the snow-capped forests in winter to the golden glow of summer sunlight filtering through the pines, Btekhnay’s landscape is ever-changing—yet its spirit remains unshaken.
With this Endowment Hima, the town is sending a clear message: Btekhnay’s natural treasures will be protected for generations to come.
Through community-driven conservation, sustainable eco-tourism, and a dedication to reviving what was lost, the Land of Black Gold is not just preserving its past—it’s planting the seeds for a greener, stronger future.
