Since 2018, this area was declared as a regional Hima due to its cultural and ecological importance. The plant life of the West Baalbek region is diverse and includes alpine and numerous xero- phytes (dry adapted) plants. Being the only semi-arid region in Lebanon, this area is characterized by floral endemism which makes it one of SPNL’s top priority sites for conservation and Hima revival in Lebanon. In addition, the whole Baalbek Hermel region is full of cultural prac- tices, therefore the Hima concept will help upgrade many disciplines such as sustainable water management, edible and medicinal plants sustainable use and responsible hunting.
