The Mar Gerges troop of the Lebanese Relief Scouts in Deir El Ahmar organized an environmental awareness and training event in collaboration with the Anti-Poaching Unit (APU), with the participation of approximately 40 scout leaders and members. The activity aimed to raise awareness on biodiversity conservation and develop environmental skills among youth.
The event included a series of awareness sessions on key topics such as:
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The dangers of poaching and its negative impact on biodiversity, the environment, and hunters themselves.
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The importance of birds of prey and their role in maintaining ecological balance.
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Basics of wildlife photography and camouflage techniques.
Participants also took part in hands-on field training sessions, covering:
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Environmental field monitoring and identifying areas of violations.
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Archery and blowgun (fukiya) shooting techniques, as part of skills-building and enhancing environmental sensitivity.
The sessions were led by:
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Adonis Khateeb, Head of the Middle East Sustainable Hunting Center (MESHC) and Field Coordinator for Responsible Hunting at the Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL).
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Shereen Bou Rfoul, Head of the Anti-Poaching Unit (APU) and Director of the CABS Lebanon Office (Committee Against Bird Slaughter).
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Akel Bou Rfoul, APU Operations Coordinator for North Bekaa.
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Kazhiya Bou Rfoul, APU Field Training Coordinator.
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Naram Khateeb, Trainer with the APU.
The activity was marked by enthusiastic participation from the scouts, several of whom expressed interest in volunteering with the APU in Deir El Ahmar, further supporting the mission of environmental protection and sustainable resource management.
At the close of the event, the scout troop leader presented a handcrafted wooden plaque to the APU in appreciation of their environmental awareness efforts and support for scouting’s mission in nature stewardship. The plaque was received by APU Head Shereen Bou Rfoul.
About the Anti-Poaching Unit
The Anti-Poaching Unit (APU) was established by the Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL), in partnership with the international Committee Against Bird Slaughter (CABS) and the Middle East Sustainable Hunting Center (MESHC).
The unit plays a vital role in monitoring and curbing illegal activities that endanger birds and wildlife in Lebanon. Through a network of trained field teams, the APU conducts awareness campaigns, patrols hunting areas, and coordinates with relevant authorities to enforce environmental protection laws. These efforts contribute significantly to the preservation of endangered species and the sustainability of Lebanon’s ecosystems.
Backed by over 40 committed volunteers and environmental activists, the APU implements a wide range of initiatives to combat poaching and promote responsible hunting. Its success is further supported by the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation, the EU-funded BioConnect Project, and strategic cooperation with BirdLife International.
The APU operates as part of a national alliance that includes the Internal Security Forces, the Lebanese Army (under the Ministry of Defense), forest rangers from the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Environment, municipal federations, local councils, and municipal police. This collaboration strengthens law enforcement and helps ensure the protection of Lebanon’s rich biodiversity and natural heritage.
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