This semi-arid land, laying on the foot of the Anti-Lebanon mountain range, has been categorized as a Hima since 2013. It constitutes a priority Key Biodiversity Area despite having a degraded natural ecosystem exposed to some extreme climatic conditions due to its continental climate. In addition, this marginalized area has one of the highest concentrations of transhumance, grazing practices and intense hunting in Lebanon. Being a Hima, is helping in reducing these threatening activities while empowering the local communities for a better natural resources management, especially that this region is known for its unique handicraft such as wool carpet weaving.
Hima El Fekha was declared on May 6 2013, and it is considered as the 8thHima in Lebanon by SPNL, El Fekhais a biologically diverse site, for it harbors more than 50 bird species, out of which 10 are considered biome-restricted. It is also an extension of the Ras Baalbek Important Bird Area (IBA), as classified by BirdLife International. In addition, this Hima will provide the basis for organizing the grazing system in El Fekha, whereby methods for sustainable grazing will be promoted by SPNL in coordination with the local herders themselves.
Activities to done:
• Exploring the diverse ecological and cultural landscape of Hima El Fekha
• Walking and hiking along the Hima trails
• Bird Watching
• Guest houses for the reception of visitors, a visitors’ center, and camping sites
