Duration: 6 months (April 2019 – October 2019)
Nestled in the heart of Mount Hermon Key Biodiversity Area (KBA) in Lebanon, the ancient olive groves stand as silent witnesses to centuries of traditional farming. For generations, these lands have provided livelihoods to local communities while simultaneously preserving a rich and unique ecosystem. However, with the gradual shift from traditional to modern agricultural practices, this delicate balance is now under threat.
A recent study conducted by Environment for Life (E.f.L), with the support of the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF), sought to evaluate the biodiversity value of olive sites in Mount Hermon KBA and identify the environmental impacts of various agricultural practices. This preparatory phase, running from April to October 2019, set the groundwork for future conservation efforts, bringing together stakeholders from different sectors to discuss sustainable agricultural practices that harmonize biodiversity conservation with economic growth.
Unveiling the Biodiversity of Mount Hermon
Through extensive field surveys and community engagements, the study documented an impressive variety of species within the olive groves. The research revealed the presence of 221 plant taxa, including 24 endemic species, making Mount Hermon a crucial refuge for flora. The faunal surveys were equally remarkable, identifying 12 mammal species, 95 bird species (including six globally threatened ones), and 11 reptile and amphibian species, three of which are endangered according to IUCN criteria.
“The biodiversity value of Mount Hermon KBA was largely undocumented before this study,” explains Dr. Saleem Hamadeh, project coordinator at E.f.L. “Our findings highlight the importance of conserving traditional olive farming as a means to protect these species.”
The Shift from Tradition to Modernity: A Threat to Biodiversity
The study identified three major types of olive farming in the area:
- Low-input traditional plantations – characterized by ancient trees, minimal chemical use, and terraces built with traditional stone walls.
- Intensified traditional plantations – where traditional layouts remain, but modern inputs such as artificial fertilizers and pesticides are used more frequently.
- Intensive modern plantations – featuring high-density plantings, mechanized systems, and heavy irrigation.
While the traditional farming systems were found to support high biodiversity, modern practices were linked to negative environmental impacts such as soil erosion, water depletion, and habitat loss. The excessive use of pesticides and herbicides has also led to a decline in pollinators and bird populations, disrupting the natural ecosystem.
Stakeholder Engagement: A Path Towards Sustainable Practices
A key outcome of the project was the successful engagement of a diverse set of stakeholders, including the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Environment, local municipalities, farmers, cooperatives, and research institutions. The collaboration resulted in a stakeholder engagement plan, laying the foundation for future interventions to promote environmentally friendly olive farming.
During a workshop held in October 2019 in Rashaya, stakeholders expressed strong interest in adopting Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs). “We recognize that our traditional olive farming methods are not only part of our heritage but also essential for the health of our land,” noted one farmer. “This project has helped us understand the importance of preserving biodiversity while ensuring sustainable production.”
Recommendations for a Greener Future
The project’s findings led to a set of priority recommendations to mitigate the negative impacts of intensive farming:
- Restoration of traditional stone terraces to prevent soil erosion.
- Promotion of organic farming to reduce chemical dependency and enhance biodiversity.
- Controlled grazing practices to maintain a balanced ecosystem.
- Reduction of irrigation and water conservation techniques to protect water resources.
- Enforcement of hunting regulations to safeguard bird populations.
- Encouragement of organic certification to improve market access for farmers practicing sustainable agriculture.
The Road Ahead: Securing the Future of Mount Hermon’s Olive Groves
Building on the success of this preparatory phase, E.f.L. has submitted a proposal for a second phase of the project. This next phase will focus on implementing sustainable farming techniques, providing training for farmers, and exploring certification schemes to enhance the economic viability of traditional olive farming.
As Lebanon grapples with environmental challenges, initiatives like this provide a blueprint for integrating conservation and agriculture. The olive groves of Mount Hermon are more than just a source of livelihood—they are a vital part of Lebanon’s natural heritage, deserving of preservation and care for generations to come.
