From regional workshops and community training plans to wetland restoration and combating illegal hunting, the past month has been an eventful period for SPNL’s Nature Conservation Department. Multiple projects advanced significantly, reflecting SPNL’s commitment to biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, and environmental education.
Strengthening Climate Resilience and Water Security
One of the key focus areas has been the Al Murunah and Al Murunah+ projects, which aim to enhance water security and climate resilience in North Bekaa’s Ras Baalbek and Qaa villages. These projects involve:
✅ Building natural water retention structures like gabion walls and ponds to mitigate flash floods.
✅ Supporting farmers through training programs and demonstration farms to improve sustainable agriculture practices.
✅ Empowering women economically and socially, ensuring long-term community resilience.
The Lebanon team recently participated in a regional workshop (held online) alongside international partners to plan the next phase. Two training sessions are now being finalized for delivery by the end of March, further strengthening local capacities.
Restoring Anjar’s Wetland and Mentoring Local Conservation Leaders
Under the ProZHum project, which focuses on the restoration and protection of Anjar’s wetland, the team has been preparing a baseline assessment to evaluate current environmental conditions and conservation needs.
🔹 A detailed assessment plan was developed, integrating previous research findings and preparing for an upcoming site visit to Anjar next week.
🔹 A local Civil Society Organization (CSO) was selected to participate in the Micro Mentorship Project, which will enhance local expertise in wetland conservation and restoration.
🔹 Coordination with Anjar’s municipality has been strengthened through a dedicated presentation explaining the project’s goals and activities.
Fighting Illegal Hunting and Protecting Lebanon’s Birds
Lebanon remains a critical stopover for migratory birds, but illegal hunting continues to pose a major threat. Through the IKBs (Illegal Killing of Birds) project, SPNL has been working to combat poaching in three major hotspots: West Bekaa, Dannieh, and Keserwan.
📊 A survey—previously prepared and translated into Arabic—is now being distributed to hunters in these areas. The collected data will help analyze hunting behaviors and motivations, supporting more effective conservation strategies.
🔍 SPNL’s Anti-Poaching Unit (APU) has also been conducting on-ground activities and training sessions, further reinforcing efforts to stop illegal wildlife killing.
Securing Future Funding for Conservation Projects
A significant portion of the past month’s work has been dedicated to proposal development, ensuring financial sustainability for SPNL’s conservation efforts. Key updates include:
📌 DIMFE Proposal – Successfully updated and resubmitted based on donor feedback. The donor has acknowledged receipt and review.
📌 Swiss Embassy Collaboration – Following a December meeting and submission of three concept notes in January, the Swiss Embassy has now requested additional documents. A site visit to SPNL’s office is expected in late March.
📌 New Proposals Submitted – Funding requests have been submitted to Allianz, KBF, and MBZ, while another proposal for Al Madad is currently under development.
What’s Next? A Busy March Ahead
🚀 Upcoming activities include:
✔ Al Murunah and Al Murunah+: Delivery of two training sessions.
✔ ProZHum: Visit to Anjar, complete wetland baseline assessment, conduct two SNOW (Sustainable Natural Organic Wetlands) sessions, finalize mentorship program documents.
✔ IKBs: Continued collaboration with the APU team for data collection and anti-poaching enforcement.
✔ Proposal Development: Submission of a new funding proposal in early March and preparation for the Swiss Embassy’s visit.
A Step Forward for Nature Conservation
As SPNL continues its mission to protect Lebanon’s natural heritage, these projects serve as vital building blocks in restoring wetlands, strengthening community resilience, and preserving bird populations. By fostering strong local and international partnerships, SPNL is not only securing funding but also ensuring that conservation efforts are scientifically driven, community-based, and sustainable.
🌿 Stay tuned for more updates as we work together for a greener, more biodiverse Lebanon!
