Today, the Fish & Wildlife Unit of the Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon (SPNL) carried out an emergency visit to the Litani River Authority (LRA) and other lake management bodies in response to repeated and alarming environmental abuses in and around Qaraoun Lake. These violations, documented through videos and photos, highlight a dangerous rise in unregulated fishing and irresponsible grazing practices.
🔍 Illegal and Harmful Fishing Practices The Fish & Wildlife Unit presented compelling evidence of widespread illegal fishing activities, particularly the aggressive and unsustainable use of nets by numerous fishermen. This period—typically marked by higher fishing pressure—has seen a surge in excessive netting, which is depleting fish stocks at an unsustainable rate. Some fishermen have also been using unauthorized techniques that pose a direct threat to the lake’s fragile biodiversity.
🐑 Uncontrolled Grazing and Habitat Degradation In parallel, shepherds have been allowing livestock to graze freely around the lake’s perimeter, leading to water contamination and the destruction of sensitive shoreline habitats. These harmful practices not only endanger local wildlife and ecosystems but also compromise the health of surrounding communities, as Qaraoun Lake serves as a vital water source for the region.
📊 SPNL’s Role and Continued Advocacy The Fish & Wildlife Unit has been at the forefront of monitoring and documenting such violations. Through consistent follow-up with the LRA, the team has submitted field reports, photographic evidence, and environmental assessments urging authorities to take urgent action. The unit continues to advocate for:
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Stricter enforcement of fishing and grazing regulations
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Regular on-ground inspections and ecological monitoring
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Launching awareness campaigns targeting fishermen and shepherds
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Applying penalties to deter repeat violations
🤝 Call to Action: Collaboration with LRA & Ministry of Agriculture In light of the growing ecological threat, the meeting concluded with a joint decision to escalate the matter to the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) and the Litani River Authority for immediate intervention. Both entities are mandated to regulate activities impacting the lake and enforce legal frameworks that protect its biodiversity and water quality.
🛑 Protecting One of Lebanon’s Most Vital Water Bodies Qaraoun Lake is not only a biodiversity hotspot but also a cornerstone of regional water security. The ongoing collaboration between SPNL’s Fish & Wildlife Unit, the LRA, and MOA is crucial to halting these damaging activities and ensuring long-term sustainability.
🌿 SPNL remains committed to defending Lebanon’s natural heritage, holding violators accountable, and promoting conservation-driven solutions that benefit both people and nature.
