The West Bekaa region is one of the most ecologically significant areas in Lebanon, serving as a vital corridor for birds and biodiversity. This narrow passage between Mount Lebanon and the Anti-Lebanon range contains the last remaining wetlands in the Bekaa Valley, linking the Shouf Biosphere Reserve with Qaroun Lake and the Litani River basin. Additionally, it serves as a crucial flyway for migratory soaring birds during the spring migration from south to north.
The Shouf Biosphere Reserve, Lebanon’s first declared nature reserve, covers approximately 5% of the country’s territory. SPNL, in collaboration with Al Shouf Cedar Society (ACS), is engaged in the regional project “BioConnect,” funded by the European Union for 45 months (2022-2025). This initiative, focused on southern Lebanon, is implemented by four partners: ACS, the Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL), the Association for the Development of Rural Capacities (ADR), and the Association for Community and Environment (ACE).
BioConnect: Strengthening Conservation Efforts
BioConnect is one of SPNL’s most extensive ongoing projects, aimed at improving the management of ecologically significant sites while establishing new Protected Areas and Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs) to enhance landscape conservation. The project’s objectives include increasing ecosystem health, maximizing socio-economic benefits, and reducing key biodiversity pressures while fostering local community involvement.
This project employs an innovative approach to protected area management, integrating various conservation models, from nature reserves (Shouf and Tyre) to community-based protected areas (Himas) and new geoparks in Mount Hermon. SPNL is focusing on seven Himas within this project: Kherbet Qanafar and Ain Zebdeh in West Bekaa, Hammana and Ras Al Matn in Mount Lebanon, Qoleileh and Mansouri on the southern coast, and Ebel Es Saqi near Marjeyoun.
Since its establishment in 1986, SPNL has been a strong advocate for protected areas, collaborating with the Ministry of Environment to establish Lebanon’s first nature reserves. After decades of engagement with government-led nature reserves, SPNL is reviving and promoting the Hima community-based conservation approach, a practice that has been prevalent in the Arab region for over 1,500 years, to protect key biodiversity areas.
SPNL also brings extensive experience in rural development and livelihood enhancement through community-based approaches. Since 2004, SPNL has been promoting the Hima approach for conserving key biodiversity sites in partnership with municipalities and local authorities. This method emphasizes local community participation in decision-making, sustainable natural resource use, and poverty alleviation by creating alternative income-generating opportunities.
Hima initiatives focus on scientific research (social and ecological), site situation analysis, and the development of management plans that incorporate poverty alleviation strategies. These efforts also provide alternative, eco-friendly employment opportunities, such as ecotourism, bed and breakfast services, visitor centers, nature guiding, cultural artisan crafts, and local food production.
SPNL’s Role in the BioConnect Project
- Enhancing the Management of Ecologically Important Sites
- Develop a citizen-science protocol for biodiversity monitoring, integrating it with traditional land-use practices in selected Himas.
- Conduct training workshops for local community groups on implementing the monitoring protocol.
- Pilot biodiversity monitoring training in Hima Hammana, focusing on specific species.
- Develop management plans for Himas currently lacking them.
- Establish a framework for ecosystem-based climate change mitigation and adaptation within the project’s protected areas, enhancing nature-based solutions.
- Supporting Sustainable Agricultural Practices and Local Communities
- Maintain traditional agricultural practices that benefit biodiversity in four Himas under the Hima Farm Best Practices initiative (six Hima farms, each covering 5,000 m²).
- Empower local communities in Hima management through initiatives such as Homat Hima and Hima Schools, engaging 1,200 students and 90 youth from Hima communities.
- Raising Awareness and Combating Illegal Activities
- Conduct an awareness-raising campaign through a traveling exhibition on biodiversity conservation in selected sites.
- Provide equipment and training for local fishermen to prevent illegal fishing in Himas.
- Work with municipalities to adopt policies combatting unsustainable and illegal practices in designated Himas.
Establishing New Protected Areas and OECMs for Landscape Connectivity
- Organize an annual workshop for Hima leaders at a successful Hima site to foster experience-sharing and reinforce their roles within the network.
- Promote the Hima concept as a tool for landscape connectivity by engaging key municipalities within the project area. This will be achieved through targeted outreach, including informational materials and one-on-one meetings.
The project aims to enhance ecological connectivity between protected areas along biodiversity corridors. SPNL is focused on linking West Bekaa, the Shouf Reserve, and Mount Hermon. Key species within the designated Himas have been identified for ongoing monitoring. Additionally, potential sites along the West Bekaa corridor, extending toward Rashayya and Mount Hermon, are under evaluation for designation as Himas or Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs), ensuring continuity for biodiversity, key species, and local communities.
Biodiversity Monitoring
As part of the Bioconnect project, SPNL has been conducting biodiversity monitoring since April 2022, focusing on plants, birds, mammals, and herpetofauna across various Hima sites in Mount Lebanon, West Bekaa, and South Lebanon.
This initiative brings together experts and scientists, including Dr. Mounir Abi Said and Dr. Riyad Sadek (mammals and herpetofauna), Chadi Saad (birds), and Husein Zorkot (plants). Additionally, SPNL’s nature conservation team actively participates in the monitoring, using this opportunity to enhance their skills and knowledge.
These collaborative efforts are crucial for deepening our understanding of the biodiversity in targeted areas, leading to more informed conservation decisions. Moreover, the data collected strengthens SPNL’s advocacy for improved landscape connectivity between Himas and other protected areas.
Exciting Findings So Far
- Around 400 bird observations recorded.
- Endemic and threatened plant species documented across all monitored sites.
- Notable mammal records, including the Rock Hyrax and the Wild Cat.
- Potential discovery of a new species (or sub-species) of rodent in Ebel El Saqi, pending further verification.
There is no better way to understand nature than by immersing ourselves in it—observing, learning, and witnessing its changes over time. This hands-on approach ensures more effective conservation strategies for species and habitats.
Hima Farm: Promoting Sustainable Agriculture
SPNL is fostering sustainable agriculture by working closely with local farmers to improve crop quality while protecting surrounding ecosystems. Under the Hima Farm program, within the framework of Bioconnect, SPNL collaborates with farmers from various Himas to promote nature-friendly agricultural practices.
Supporting Local Farmers
SPNL’s agricultural engineers provide ongoing support to farmers in Ras El Maten, Hammana, Kherbet Qanafar, and Ain Zebde, helping them preserve traditional land-use practices while adapting them to sustainable methods.
Currently, six farmers are actively engaged in:
- Water and irrigation management
- Crop rotation and management
- Pest control and plantation techniques
- Sustainable land-use practices
Weekly and monthly site visits ensure continuous guidance, evaluations, and hands-on support. This approach enhances farmer engagement, promotes sustainable techniques, and encourages a balance between agricultural productivity and environmental conservation.
Scaling Impact
By working directly with local farmers, the Hima Farm program not only improves agricultural sustainability but also fosters community-led advocacy for nature-friendly practices. Seeing tangible benefits encourages replication and broader adoption of these methods.
This initiative directly supports Bioconnect’s objectives—empowering local communities and reducing stress on natural resources—while positioning sustainable agriculture as a key driver for conservation.
So far, under Bioconnect, we have successfully:
The Hima Farm Program embodies SPNL’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and community empowerment. It is built on core values that promote environmental conservation, social inclusion, and economic sustainability.
Under this program, SPNL upholds the following principles:
- Organic agriculture and permaculture to ensure environmentally friendly farming.
- Sustainable resource management to minimize environmental impact.
- No hunting and no child labor to protect biodiversity and uphold ethical practices.
- Capacity-building for local communities to enhance skills and knowledge.
- Job creation for both locals and refugees to strengthen economic resilience.
- Conservation of native plants and herbs to preserve Lebanon’s rich biodiversity.
- Financial sustainability to ensure long-term program viability.
- Active involvement of youth and women as key contributors, particularly from underprivileged groups.
By integrating these values, the Hima Farm Program not only supports sustainable agriculture but also fosters social equity and economic empowerment while protecting Lebanon’s natural heritage.
Hima School: SNOW ProgramÂ
As part of the BioConnect project, SPNL has delivered environmental education sessions to public school students through the SNOW – School with No Walls program.
What is SNOW?
SNOW is an interactive environmental education program designed for schools and local community groups, targeting children aged 8 to 12. The goal is to prepare students for future engagement in the Homat Hima program by fostering environmental awareness and appreciation for their natural heritage.
The Hima School provides tailored environmental education packages to schools within Hima sites. These packages include interactive tools for teachers to enhance students’ understanding of biodiversity, conservation, and sustainable practices. Through hands-on activities, children learn to explore, value, and protect their local environment.
SNOW in Action
The SNOW team was delighted to witness students from Qleileh/Mansouri and Ras El Maten actively engaging in learning about biodiversity and Lebanon’s protected areas.
In South Lebanon, the sessions were conducted in collaboration with UNIFIL, which supported the initiative by facilitating coordination and distributing useful exploration gadgets for students.
Impact and Achievements
The SNOW program has surpassed its BioConnect target, reaching 1,214 students:
- 658 males
- 556 females
These sessions play a vital role in raising awareness and fostering positive behavioral change among young learners, empowering them to become future conservation leaders.
Hima’s Heroes: 
SPNL is deeply committed to environmental education and community empowerment through the Homat Al Hima program. This initiative focuses on building the capacity of local communities within targeted Hima areas, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to protect and sustainably manage their natural resources.
Empowering Local Guardians
Through Homat Al Hima, SPNL provides training in:
- Nature conservation (fauna, flora, and biodiversity)
- Sustainable agriculture and forest management
- Nature-based tourism and eco-guiding
- Community-driven conservation efforts
These capacity-building sessions highlight the importance of local engagement in environmental protection and sustainable development.
Who Are the Homat Al Hima?
Homat Al Hima is an Arabic slogan that honors individuals and groups who act as guardians and champions of the Himas. These dedicated youth from local Hima communities are:
- Motivated, well-trained, and equipped to lead conservation activities.
- Ambitious and engaged in addressing environmental, economic, and social challenges in their communities.
- Committed to ensuring the conservation of key biodiversity and ecosystem services in their regions.
By nurturing local leadership and stewardship, Homat Al Hima ensures that conservation is community-driven, sustainable, and deeply rooted in local cultural values.
Rangers: Guardians of Biodiversity
As part of the BioConnect project, SPNL has been conducting biodiversity monitoring field activities since mid-April 2022, focusing on birds, mammals, plants, and herpetofauna (reptiles and amphibians). These activities continued until March 2023, with the goal of enhancing conservation efforts through scientific data collection and local community engagement.
Empowering Local Rangers
SPNL actively involves local community members in monitoring activities, leveraging their deep knowledge of the terrain while simultaneously building their capacities in biodiversity conservation. Engaging rangers from targeted Hima sites plays a crucial role in:
- Ensuring high-quality field monitoring
- Providing logistical and on-the-ground expertise
- Keeping conservation experts safe and well-guided
Beyond their logistical support, local rangers are deeply engaged in the learning process, discovering new insights about the natural ecosystems they help protect. This participatory approach strengthens local stewardship, increasing commitment to Hima site management and conservation.
Advancing Conservation Through Monitoring
The biodiversity monitoring efforts under BioConnect are successfully:
- Prioritizing key species and habitats, highlighting their ecological importance.
- Providing accurate, updated biodiversity data, which serves as a foundation for science-based conservation strategies.
Ultimately, this initiative enhances the effective management of Hima sites while supporting advocacy for the establishment of new Protected Areas under the landscape connectivity concept.
By involving rangers as key partners, SPNL ensures that conservation is not only science-driven but also deeply rooted in local engagement and traditional knowledge.
Voices from the Field: Rangers’ Testimonials
We are delighted to share first-hand experiences from our dedicated local rangers, who have been actively involved in biodiversity monitoring and conservation efforts. Their testimonies reflect their passion, commitment, and personal growth through their journey with BioConnect.
Hasan El Achkar – Ebel El Saqi
“Ever since I started working with the SPNL team a few months ago, I have had the incredible opportunity to deepen my connection with nature. It has always been a dream of mine to collaborate with organizations dedicated to environmental conservation and to engage in meaningful discussions about nature’s vital role in our lives.
Over the past few months, I have learned how to monitor birds, mammals, reptiles, and insects—an experience that has been both exciting and enriching. Most importantly, I am gaining a deeper understanding of nature and the best ways to protect biodiversity from threats such as hunting and deforestation. This journey has truly strengthened my commitment to conservation.”
Tony Hasbani – Kherbet Qanafar / Ain Zebde
“My name is Tony Hasbani, and I am from Ain Zebde, West Beqaa. I have the privilege of assisting SPNL’s field team in bird monitoring at Hima Ain Zebde and Kherbet Qanafar.
This experience has been incredibly rewarding—on one hand, I am discovering new bird species in our Hima, and on the other, I am enjoying the fieldwork alongside a knowledgeable and passionate team. Learning from their expertise has been truly enriching. It’s an amazing experience that deepens my appreciation for nature and conservation.”
Nabil Makarem – Ras El Matn
“I have been an environmental activist since 1997, with a deep passion for hiking and exploring Lebanon’s diverse trails. I first connected with SPNL three or four years ago, and from the start, we shared the same vision, passion, and commitment to nature conservation.
SPNL has given my love for nature a new depth and purpose. Personally, I used to have a deep fear of certain animal species, but through my journey with SPNL, I have come to understand their crucial role in the ecosystem.
As a ranger, SPNL introduced me to biodiversity monitoring—whether for birds, plants, or mammals. Today, I can identify a significant number of species and recognize their importance in our environment. For this invaluable knowledge and experience, I will always be grateful.”
A Thriving Partnership with Local Rangers
Our experience with local rangers has been nothing short of exceptional. These highly dedicated individuals have shown unwavering commitment to conserving their ecosystems, embracing sustainable practices, and offering their support whenever needed. Their enthusiasm for learning and their willingness to take an active role in conservation are truly inspiring.
SPNL remains committed to nurturing and reigniting this passion—ensuring that local communities continue to feel empowered and connected to nature and environmental protection.
Community Engagement: The Key to Conservation
At SPNL, we firmly believe that community engagement is essential for the efficient management and conservation of natural resources. Moving forward, with the new Citizen-Science Manual for Biodiversity Monitoring—currently in development as a BioConnect output—we aim to elevate community involvement to a more advanced level.
By equipping local groups with practical tools and knowledge, we hope to expand their role in conservation, ensuring that they become even more integral to biodiversity protection efforts. Together, we can create a sustainable future where people and nature thrive in harmony.
Enhancing Connectivity Through Hima Conservation
Through the BioConnect project, SPNL is actively working across seven Hima sites in southern Lebanon, including:
- West Bekaa: Kherbet Qanafar, Ain Zebdeh
- Mount Lebanon: Hammana, Ras El Matn
- Southern Coast: Qoleileh, Mansouri
- South Lebanon: Ebel El Saqi (near Marjeyoun)
1st Annual Hima ForumÂ
Under the patronage of Minister of Environment Dr. Nasser Yassin and the EU Delegation to Lebanon’s Deputy Head of Cooperation, Ms. Alessia Squarcella, SPNL organized the first-ever Annual Forum for Hima Areas on November 24, 2023, at the Homat Hima International Center in Kherbet Qanafar, West Bekaa.
The event brought together Hima leaders, project partners, environmental activists, and municipal representatives from:
- Additional West Bekaa Himas: Mansoura, Aitanit, Qaroun
- Union of Qaroun Lake Municipalities
Key Objectives and Outcomes
The forum aimed to strengthen collaboration, knowledge exchange, and strategic planning among Hima leaders. Discussions covered:
- Hima achievements and needs, with lessons for future improvements.
- The importance of community involvement in ensuring conservation and sustainability.
- An overview of BioConnect’s progress, including scientific biodiversity assessments.
- A major milestone: the declaration of Hima Rashaya, enhancing ecological connectivity between nature reserves and Himas in West Bekaa and Mount Hermon.
2nd Annual Hima Forum
The Second Annual Hima Forum, held in Ras el-Metn, Mount Lebanon, was organized by SPNL under the patronage of Minister of Environment Dr. Nasser Yassin and supported by the European Union (EU) as part of the BioConnect project. The event brought together local leaders, international partners, and conservation advocates to enhance governance, expand protected areas, and promote sustainable community engagement.
Key Highlights:
- Minister Yassin emphasized integrating the Hima concept into Lebanon’s legal framework and announced preliminary approval for a natural park in the Lamartine Valley.
- Cyril Dewaleyne Deputy Head of Cooperation at the Delegation of the European Union to Lebanon reaffirmed EU support for Lebanon’s environmental challenges.
- SPNL Director General Asaad Serhal highlighted the organization’s success in establishing 33 Himas covering 6% of Lebanon’s land.
- Awards were presented to Minister Yassin and Jawad Nwehid for their contributions to conservation.
- Training sessions on anti-poaching and illegal hunting and an environmental education workshop under the School Without Walls program were conducted.
Future Connectivity & Learning
This Annual Hima Forum will become a recurring event, held in a different Hima location each year. These gatherings will continue fostering learning, exchange, and connectivity—ensuring stronger collaboration between nature and people for long-term conservation success.
