Document - Shouf Biosphere Reserve

Transcription

Shouf-Jezzine Aspiring Geopark
A proposal application for membership of the Global Geoparks Network
(GGN)
Prepared by
Ghassan RAMADAN-JARADI
Individual International Consultant
On behalf of Shouf Biosphere Reserve Committee and
the Union of municipalities in the Aspiring Geopark site, and in cooperation
with various key stakeholders
GEOPARKS – Promoting Earth Heritage, Sustaining Local Communities
Global Network of National Geoparks- a landscape approach for geological heritage
conservation, research and sustainable development
STATEMENT OF INTEREST
In the Republic of Lebanon, along the Scenic Mount-Lebanon at Barouk, Niha and Jezzine is a collection of sites that
exemplify the geologic and cultural heritage of the southern half of the country. In order to increase the visibility of
these nationally significant sites and promote sustainable geotourism in the Lebanon, we propose that this
collection of sites be designated the Shouf-Jezzine Geopark.
The Shouf-Jezzine Geopark Project is made possible with financial support from UNESCO (Cairo Office).
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
STATEMENT OF INTEREST
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ACRONYMS
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
INTRODUCTION
THE APPLICATION – THE SHOUF-JEZZINE ASPIRING GEOPARK
A IDENTIFICATION OF THE AREA
1
NAME OF THE ASPIRING GEOPARK: SHOUF-JEZZINE GEOPARK
2
LOCATION OF THE PROPOSED GEOPARK
3
SURFACE AREA
4
ORGANIZATION IN CHARGE AND MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE
5
APPLICATION CONTACT person
B GEOLOGICAL HERITAG
1
GENERAL GEOLOGICAL DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED GEOPARK
2
LISTING AND DESCRIPTION OF GEOLOGICAL SITES WITHIN THE GEOPARK
DETAILS OF THESE SITES ON THE INTEREST
LISTING AND DESCRIPTION OF OTHER SITES
C
Important Agricultural production
Cedar value and cedar in history
Biodiversity value
1- Ecosystem Diversity
2- Flora
3- Mammals
4- Birds
5- Reptiles and amphibians
ECOSYSTEM SERVICES
CULTURAL, ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND HISTORICAL VALUES
1- The khalwat of Niha
2- Nabi Ayoub (Prophet Job)
3- Qalaat Niha (Cliff of Niha with troglodyte cave- Niha Fortress)
4- Ain El-Halkoum (Spring of Halkoum)
5- The birket el Arous bridge
6- Marj Bisri Roman Temple
7- Saint Georges Church
8- Saint Joseph Church
9- Cave of the source of Niha
10- The source of Niha
11- Lower Bridge
12- Cascade of Jezzine
13- Jezzine speciality
14- Seat of Maronite bishops
15- Canaan Palace
SCENIC LANDSCAPES
GEOCONSERVATION
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D
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CURRENT OR POTENTIAL PRESSURE ON THE PROPOSED GEOPARK
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CURRENT STATUS IN TERMS OF PROTECTION OF GEOLOGICAL SITES
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DATA ON THE MANAGEMENT AND MAINTENANCE OF ALL HERITAGE SITES
ECONOMIC ACTIVITY & BUSINESS PLAN
1
ECONOMIC ACTIVITY IN THE PROPOSED GEOPARK
2
EXISTING AND PLANNED FACILITIES FOR THE PROPOSED GEOPARK
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ANALYSIS OF GEOTOURISM POTENTIAL OF THE PROPOSED GEOPARK
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OVERVIEW AND POLICIES FOR THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
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POLICIES FOR, AND EXAMPLES OF, COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT
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POLICIES FOR, AND EXAMPLES OF, PUBLIC AND STAKEHOLDER AWARENESS
INTEREST AND ARGUMENT FOR JOINING THE GGN
REFERENCES
ANNEXES
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Acronyms:
GGN: Global Geopark Network
UNESO: United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
SBR: Shouf Biosphere Reserve
ACS: Al-Shouf Cedar Society
APAC: Appointed Protected Area Committee
MOE: Ministry of Environment
SISPAM: Stable Institutional Structure for Protected Areas Management
PA: Protected Area
MT: Management Team
FT/PT: Fulltime/Part time
AFD: Agence Francaise de Development
GEF: Global Environment Facility
STF: Shqif Tayroun Fort
SBHCP: Shouf Built Heritage Conservation Project
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Dr. Mohamed Al-Aawah for his supervision and guidance. It is
gratefully acknowledged that valuable inputs and maps have been received from Mr. Nizar Hani, manager of
Shouf Biosphere Reserve; and illustrative photos and maps received from Mr. Kamal Abou Assi,
Communication & Ecotourism Coordinator. Many stakeholders and key persons enriched and strengthened
our application.
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has taken a decision to support
efforts of member states to promote territories or natural parks having special geological features through the
inclusion in a global network of Geoparks.
Lebanon’s spectacular landscapes and the geological history of its rocks, minerals, fossils and landforms are of
unique geological importance and constitute a significant geological heritage.
The area declared “Al- Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve” in 1996 and “Shouf Biosphere Reserve” in 2005 possesses
several features and characteristics to make much of it with an additional piece of land eligible for being
nominated as Geopark. This area boosts scenic landforms, paleontological, speleological and archaeological sites,
and rare minerals and rocks that are combined with ecological biodiversity of scientific and cultural significance as
well as with cultural and historical aspects.
The proposed Geopark is located in an area with an underdeveloped economy. Over the last 10 years, local
communities have made tremendous efforts to develop and protect geological sites of scientific importance,
forming part of Lebanon’s geological heritage. Local conservancies were established within the area with the aim
of improving the living conditions of local communities and at the same time diversifying the rural economy. The
popularization of earth sciences within the borders of the Shouf-Jezzine as the first Lebanese Geopark could
further strengthen the socio-economic development in a sustainable manner.
Most sites of geological interest in the proposed Geopark have no conservation status yet and are under
considerable stress from unsustainable usage. They need to be protected within their rural environment. The local
economy will be able to benefit from increased geo-tourism, if national and regional stakeholders can agree on
management issues, and the responsibilities for the necessary conservation of geological heritage sites, including
any physical maintenance. Participatory representation from all sections of the community needs to be secured,
and should involve amongst others: public authorities, local organizations, private interests and research and
educational bodies. Awareness programs for visitors to a Geopark will have to include education on
environmental issues and sustainable development. Pedagogical programs for schools need to be developed
together with scientific explanations of geological features. Certain forms of geotourism have already become
popular among Lebanese and international tourists, and this has shown the need for sustainable heritage
conservation, providing a foundation for education and scientific research and at the same time enabling the local
communities to safeguard and market their own resources and earn income from them. Proclamation of
Lebanon’s first Geopark under UNESCO patronage will ensure the appropriate recognition, preservation and
utilization of Lebanon’s important geological and geomorphologic heritage.
INTRODUCTION
If the geological formations which have profoundly influenced society, civilization, and the cultural diversity of our
planet represent the history of our earth, the historical and cultural sites represent the history of our mankind on
this earth (G. Ramadan-Jaradi, saying, 2012). This relation geological heritage – man is strong enough, especially
when knowing that the geological diversity lies behind the biological diversity, affects its components and
environment and is affected to a certain degree by them.
Whether the geological, historical and cultural sites are of international, regional or national importance they
merit conservation because, like the natural heritage in Biosphere Reserves, they promote scientific research and
seek sustainable development. Similarly to the Biosphere Reserves, the adherence of the geological heritage
(mainly of national or regional importance) to the Global Geoparks’ Network provides countries with an
international framework to conserve and enhance the value of the Earth’s heritage and allow them to contribute
to the conservation of a wide variety of distinguished geological formations.
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THE APPLICATION
THE SHOUF-JEZZINE ASPIRING GEOPARK
A – Identification of the Area
1- NAME OF THE ASPIRING GEOPARK: SHOUF-JEZZINE GEOPARK
2. LOCATION
GEOPARK (PLEASE
LONGITUDE AND LATITUDE COORDINATES)
OF THE PROPOSED
INCLUDE A GEOGRAPHICAL MAP AND THE GEOGRAPHIC COORDINATES
This Aspiring Geopark is situated between 33º 38’ 37.34”N & 35º 36’ 43.92”E in the NW, and 33º 36’ 26.33”N &
35º 42’ 14.33”E in the NE, and 33º 29’ 32.27”N & 35º 35’ 02.13”E in the S; within the southern half of the Mount
Lebanon (see Figure 2).
3. SURFACE AREA, PHYSICAL AND HUMAN GEOGRAPHY CHARACTERISTICS OF THE PROPOSED GEOPARK.
The present application is for the extension of the
Shouf Biosphere Reserve (SBR) into a Geopark. The
Shouf Biosphere reserve is the largest reserve in
Lebanon (500 km2) and covers 5% of the country
surface area. As such, the Geopark area occupies a
large part of the Shouf Biosphere Reserve (145 km2)
and extends beyond the SBR to cover Jezzine area to
the south and reach a total surface area of 195.63 km2
(2% of the country surface area).
The area of the proposed Geopark is well known for its
geodiversity and biodiversity and for its protected
areas that cover 74% of the Geopark (Figure 3).The
proposed Geopark has a population of about 80000
inhabitants.
The aspiring Geopark area is also known for its olive
groves and pine forests (largest pine groves in the
Middle East), its oak and cedar forests(globally
southern limit of the Lebanon Cedar); its antiquities,
the traditional villages and culture. It has an excellent
network of ecotourism trails, beside historic shrines,
churches and unique specimens of rural architecture.
The landscapes that marked the proposed Geopark are
on one side the mountain peaks surrounding the
villages and on another side the valley of Barouk to the
north and the ravine overlooking the valley of Nahr
Figure 1: Proposed Geopark
Aray to the south. In addition, the anticlines and
location
synclines of Jabal Niha constituted an educational
landscape on which a geologist from Morocco spent about an hour of explanation to the participants of the Arab
MAB Coordinating Council in May 2010.
The boundary of the Biosphere Reserve and that one of the aspiring Geopark are well delimited and the site of
geological heritage is sufficiently large to serve the socio-economic and cultural development, mainly through the
activities of eco-tourism. The part of the proposed Geopark that overlaps with the Biosphere Reserve is already
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serving the socio-economic and cultural development whereas the remaining part to the south of the biosphere
reserve is an added value with main focusing on geological heritage. The size of the aspiring geopark should be
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regarded in relation with the surface area of the country that is too small (10450 km ) and could be of the size of a
Geopark somewhere else. However, the aspiring Geopark that is inscribed in 2005 as the first Biosphere Reserve
in Lebanon will be, if approved, the first
Geopark in the country and Eastern
Mediterranean Arab region. As such
Figure 2: Shouf -Jezzine Geopark Coordinates
Shouf-Jezzine proposed Geopark can
become a regional model for socioeconomic development activities by
involving its resident communities, whose
members include 17 different ethnic
minority groups, in geotourism and in
developing local products and services for
visitors. Shouf-Jezzine aspiring Geoparks
can benefit both local communities and
visitors through educational and cultural
exchange and scientific research to bring
much needed economic stimulus to
vulnerable
populations
living
in
mountainous regions.
The proposed Geopark enjoys a typical
Mediterranean climate with four distinct
seasons. The summers are warm and dry
while the winters are cool and wet.
Precipitation is the source of both surface
streams and groundwater. The major
portion of this occurs as rain. Snowfall
often occurs at the upper elevations and
forms permanent snow pockets at high
peaks but this snow seldom persists more
than a few days or weeks and disappears
before the end of the rainy season at
heights below 2000 meters. A large
proportion of the exposed surface rock in
the region is cavernous, fissured and broken limestone, and its porous condition makes it very permeable. This
results in much of the precipitation infiltrating with minimum surface runoff despite the often-shallow soils and
sparse vegetative cover. Water percolates downward through the various formations and feeds the many large
springs found on lower slopes in the area. Such springs help maintain stream-flow during the April to November
dry season. Surface water flows originating on the range are mostly seasonal but some are perennial.
Underground water generates outflow rivers such as the Al Awali River, more commonly known as Al-Barouk
River and Damour River, known as Al-Safa River. The resulting springs, streams and rivers are associated with
riparian vegetation that is attractive to special fauna and flora structures.
The elevation of the Lebanon-Mountain also plays a role in the succession of the vegetation and impacts their
fauna composition. The summit of the range is considered as a divide between two hydrological systems because
of the difference between the two slopes of the mountain. The eastern slope is much steeper and favors surface
stream flows, whereas the western slope is less steep and favors ground water aquifers.
The rivers that flow in the valleys are the major source of agriculture irrigation and supply more than one hundred
Shouf villages with domestic water and some of the western Beqaa villages.
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Average temperature of the warmest month (Aug): 20 °C
Average temperature of the coldest month (Jan): 4 °C
Mean annual precipitation: 900 mm, recorded at an elevation of 1500 meters
Figure 3: The Shouf -Jezzine Geopark where: the light grey and dark grey represent the SBR. Dark grey
and brown represent the Shouf-Jezzine Geopark (dark grey is the overlapping part of the Geopark)
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4. ORGANIZATION IN CHARGE AND MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE (DESCRIPTION, FUNCTION AND ORGANOGRAM) OF THE PROPOSED
GEOPARK.
Being mostly within the Shouf Biosphere Reserve, the proposed Geopark is therefore equipped with an effective
management plan and Action plan (Annex 5) for its implementation since 2000. This doesn’t mean that the
overlapping and additional lands of the Geopark will not enjoy their management plan as Geopark. The Managing
authority already launched the early stages in the preparation of the Geopark Management Plan. The first
management plan concerns the Al-Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve, including the overlapping part of the Geopark,
and has been implemented between 2000 and 2005, whilst the second (current) is for the SBR for the period
2013-2017. The current management plan is aligned with the requirements of biosphere reserves and is “a
written, circulated and approved document which describes the site and the problems and opportunities for
management of its nature and culture conservation, land form or landscape features, enabling objectives based
on this information to be met through relevant work over a stated period of time” (Eurosite 1999). Supported by
the Al-Shouf Cedar Society (ACS),the managing authority which is the Appointed Protected Area Committee
(APAC)) by the Ministry of Environment of the proposed Geopark has already made some of the significant
natural, cultural and historic heritage sites accessible to visitors, including some of the geological sites that
describe the history of the mankind in the proposed Geopark. These sites are linked to one another through either
a marketing or business plan (Annex 6) or through an ecotourism strategy (Annex 7). In addition these sites are
safeguarded through a clear responsible management body in partnership with several stakeholders and with a
local support that is demonstrated by the participation of several municipalities in the different activities within
the Geopark. In fact, the endorsement of the present aspiring Geopark is obtained not only from the Ministry of
the Environment but also from the two Unions of Municipalities responsible for the area, in which the proposed
Geopark is located. Presently, the managing authority is responsible for decision-making and will be responsible
soon for achieving the objectives of the management of the Geopark site. This managing authority is formed from
members consisting of volunteers, designated by ministerial decision (MOE), representing the local communities
(municipalities, district commissions), university experts, environmental NGOs, or representatives of institutions
(Ministry of Agriculture). The management body has an effective management infrastructure, adequate qualified
personnel, and sustainable financial support:
- The existing management structure
The management of essential operation components such as policies, processes, equipment, data (storage
management), human resources, and external contacts (network management); for an overall effectiveness are
carefully considered and applied by the management authority mainly through reduction of duplication effort,
enhancement of the flow of information throughout an information system, promotion of adaptability necessary
for a changeable environment, and adaptation of policies and practices.
Firstly, it should be kept in mind that the proposed Geopark is partly within the Shouf Biosphere Reserve and
under the authority of the Lebanese Ministry of Environment, which manages it through the Appointed Protected
Area Committee (APAC) that includes among its members some members of the Al-Shouf Cedar Society, the
Mayors of the larger villages, and independent environment experts, etc. Secondly, the APAC is also called the
management authority and it liaises with the Shouf Biosphere Reserve’s Management Team, which deals with the
reserve’s day to day management and planning. According to the Stable Institutional Structure for Protected
Areas Management (SISPAM) project:
1. The responsibility of Protected Areas (PA) management in Lebanon is under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of
the Environment (MOE). The latter establishes two parties in this perspective: (a) the management team (MT),
consisting of 13 key positions, is responsible for the operation of the PA (such as administration, management,
technical and maintenance activities, protection, public awareness, communication and scientific investigation)
and (b) the Appointed Protected Area Committee (APAC) that is responsible for decision-making and achieving the
objectives of the management of the site. APAC members consist of volunteers, designated by ministerial decision
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(MOE), representing the local communities (municipalities, district commissions), university experts,
environmental NGOs, or representatives of institutions (Ministry of Agriculture).
2. APAC forms the link
between the MOE and the
MT, whereby it works in close
collaboration
with
both
parties. APAC supervises the
work of the MT and ensures
the proper implementation of
the management plan and
the budget, and reports
regularly to the MOE.
However,
the
members
should be volunteers that are
sincerely dedicated to their
responsibilities. Since the
ultimate authority of PA
management is vested in the
MOE, it is responsible for
making sure the APAC and
MT members are managing
the PAs properly, in addition
to
authorizing
contracts
during
recruitment
and
regulating resignations.
When the proposed Geopark
is declared member of the
Figure 4: Organizational Arragements for Shouf-Jezzine aspiring Geopark
Global Geoparks Network
(GGN), the APAC will extend
its mandate over the Geopark
and a new management team will be appointed to manage the Geopark, in harmonization of work and
cooperation with the management team of the biosphere reserve. The cooperation is a must because the tours of
visitors are better applied with packages. However, the organizational arrangements for the Geopark are
visualized in Figure 4.
On the following pages are brief job descriptions for MT members standardized for all PAs, including the skills,
knowledge, and obligations required for recruitment. However, these job descriptions can be customized to the
respective PAs, especially those with limited human resources capacity. In such cases, it is up to the APAC to
redefine the tasks of the MT members, and re-assign to one person the duties of another.
Current staff The Management Team is currently made up of 25 permanent/10 temporary staff members, all of
whom are residents of the Shouf-Niha region, including the area of the proposed Geopark. 13 additional
rangers/guides/Manager will be appointed for the day-to-day management of the aspiring Geopark when the
latter is member of the GGN. According to the SISPAM classification, the Management Team should conform to
the broad classifications below:
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Site Management
The Site Manager’s mission is to implement the management operations in the PA.
The Site Manager leads a team, and his/her job involves performing a wide variety of activities, such as
supervision, management, coordination, as well as irregular hours
Applicants should have relevant professional experience and/or a BA/BS degree in Environmental
Sciences, Natural Resource Management, Agriculture, Biology, or other related fields
Applicant should be fluent in Arabic and English. French is considered a plus
Successful applicants will be offered a contract for a full time position
Residence in the vicinity of the PA is a plus
A driving license is required
Administrative Assistant (Administration and Management)
The assistant’s mission is to perform all aspects of data entry, every day secretarial work, and deal with
accounting and payment operations
Applicants should generally have professional experience in the same type of field with an education level
up to BA/BS
Successful applicants will be offered a contract for a FT/PT position
Guard / Ranger (Maintenance and Surveillance)
The guard’s job is the operational management of site, and for authorized agents the enforcement of the
laws protecting nature
Applicants should have similar professional experience and a high school certificate
Baccalaureate holder and/or speaker of other languages in addition to Arabic are a plus
A driving license is required
Successful applicants will be offered a contract for full time position
Residence in the vicinity of the PA is also a plus
He/she is placed under the authority of the site manager
He/she is independent in the field in carrying out the assigned missions
He/she will work with the Awareness Coordinator and the Scientific Coordinator
The Guard may have irregular workloads when there are seasonal peaks of activity
In case of a problem, the information must be reported immediately to the site manager
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Awareness Coordinator (Public Awareness and Communication)
The mission of the Awareness Coordinator is to design and implement public awareness and sensitization
projects aimed at exploring and conserving the rich heritage of the PAs
Applicants should have professional experience with initial training up to level BA/BS
Driving license is required
Under the direct authority of the site manager, the Awareness Coordinator will work with the whole site
management team
The Awareness Coordinator may have an irregular workload
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Ecoguide (Public Awareness and Communication)
The Ecoguide’s mission is to lead the guided visits of the site
A short internship on the site will be required
A Baccalaureate certificate and fluency in Arabic, English and French
Residence in the vicinity of the PA is a plus
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The Ecoguide works under the authority of the Awareness Coordinator/Site Manager
The Ecoguide may have irregular workloads
Scientific Coordinator (Thematic and Scientific missions)
Scientific Coordinator’s mission is to organize the scientific activities in the PA
Applicants should have professional experience and a BS degree in Agriculture, Biology, Environmental
Sciences, Ecosystem Management, Natural Resources Management or other related fields
Successful applicants will be offered a full time position
Driving license required
Scientific Coordinator works with all of the management team under the direct supervision of the Site
Manager
Independent in carrying out the missions assigned to him/her
Scientific Coordinator may have irregular workloads
Local Development Coordinator (Thematic and Scientific missions)
The mission of the local development coordinator is to contribute to the integration of the PA into the
local and regional socio-economic context
Applicants should have professional experience and a BA/BS degree in Economy, Business, Urban
Planning, Sociology or in other related fields
Driving license required
Directly responsible to the PA coordinator, the job will be carried out as part of a team and involve direct
and permanent contact with local parties involved
Staff distribution
The Management Team currently occupies, in the Village of Maasser el Shouf, the SBR Park House that
serves as its office and center of
operations (Figure 5). The House
includes a visitor/information
center, facilities for conferences
and workshops, and gift shop.
This property, now called
“Maasser Park House”, was
purchased by the Agence
Française
de
Development
(FFEM/AFD) and is being
restored
by
the
Italian
Cooperation
Office/Italian
Embassy
in
Lebanon.
Transportation expenses for the
Management Team for travel
within and outside the protected Figure 5: The Shouf-Jezzine traditional Park House and visitor center
areas are costly due to high fuel
prices and the expense of maintaining the vehicles in good working order. Motorbikes, hybrid vehicles
and electric cars are being considered for the future.
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Staff concerns: The three major concerns face the Management Team:
1- Financial Stability: During the first five years of the Protected Areas Project (1996-2001) staff salaries
were provided by the GEF funded project on the understanding that the MOE would assume a
substantial part of the financial needs of the three nature reserve (Shouf, Ehden and Palm Islands)
through its annual allocation to each. Unfortunately these allocations were too small to meet the
needs of the staff and were rarely paid on time due to budget constraints in the MOE. Thus, due to
the limited allocations that the MOE provides for staff salaries, the ASC has had to secure the balance
through the income it earns from entrance fees and donations that it solicits.
2- Professional Qualifications Most of the staff of the SBR are well qualified and have performed
admirably under very difficult unstable political situation in Lebanon.
3- Staff Numbers As mentioned previously,25 permanent and 10 temporary staff members make up the
Management Team, all of whom are residents of the Shouf region. This number is increasing with
time to ensure sustainable management of the Shouf Biosphere Reserve and the proposed Geopark.
It is estimated that around 10 staff additional members will be required during the next few years to
adequately manage the biosphere reserve mainly the aspiring Geopark areas, protect their valuable
resources, and handle an increasing number of visitors.
5. Application contact person (name, position, tel./fax, e-mail)
Name: Nizar Hani
Position: Manager – Shouf Biosphere Reserve and Shouf – Jezzine Geopark
Tel/fax: 00961 5 350 250 /150
Mobile: 00961 3 513 845
Email: [email protected] / [email protected]
B – Geological Heritage
1. GENERAL GEOLOGICAL DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED GEOPARK
Geologically Lebanon is dominated by pate limestone; this and/or the snow cover may be the origin of the name
as L-B-N is 'white' in the Semitic languages. The surface rocks of Lebanon are relatively recent; the oldest being
dated as Early Jurassic (around 200 million years ago).
At the risk of oversimplification, the geology of Lebanon can be summed up in five episodes of around 50 million
years each.
EPISODE 1: 250-200 MILLION YEARS AGO.
(LATE PERMIAN - EARLY JURASSIC)
This episode is not represented by any surface rocks in Lebanon but is known from the adjacent areas. During this
time a series of rifts probably opened across the region as the supercontinent Gondwana began to break up.
(EARLY – LATE JURASSIC)
This saw the deposition of up to 2km of Jurassic limestone in quiet shallow, warm water conditions. These are the
massive, monotonous limestone of the gorges of northern Mount Lebanon and of the mountains of Barouk
(where the aspiring Geopark is mainly taking place) and Hermon. Offshore Lebanon, an oceanic seaway would
have opened as the tectonic plates split further apart.
(EARLY – MI CRETACEOUS)
This was a more varied period that began with uplift with local basaltic volcanic flows. The area was then covered
by a series of swamps, rivers and deltas which has given a widespread sequence of sands and shale up to 500m
thick. These Early Cretaceous strata are increasingly worked as building materials. They also contain good fossil
amber with well-preserved insects.
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(LATE CRETACEOUS – EARLY EOCENE)
The seas then returned to give another thick sequence (over 2 km in places) of pale limestone and chalks of Late
Cretaceous and Early Tertiary age. These are common on the coast as well as forming parts of the high mountains
of the Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon Ranges. It is during this time that the famous fish beds formed. The general
outline of Lebanon started to form at the start of this episode with a time of gentle uplift.
EPISODE 5: 50 MILLION YEARS AGO TO NOW
(MID EOCENE – RECENT)
From the late Early Tertiary onwards, a series of folding and faulting events affected Lebanon. These are due to
the forces generated as the Arabian and African Plates collided slowly with Europe and Asia. The first major
folding and uplift occurred at the end of the Eocene and a second uplift event associated with movement along
the Dead Sea Fault system started some 10 million years ago and is still going on. One characteristic is that the
folding is generally confined to narrow zones; over most of north and central Lebanon, whole blocks were pushed
up vertically along faults so that even the highest mountains often have rocks that are horizontal. The most recent
folding has involved a 'slicing up' of Lebanon by a number of faults linked with the Dead Sea Fault System.
In the last Ice Age the highest peaks probably had glaciers and small glacial moraines can be seen in the area of
the Cedars at Bcharri. From 10,000 years ago the area warmed up and reforestation occurred. Human activity
however started to negatively affect the environment on a large scale from around 4000 BC onwards; a process
that has increased alarmingly in the 20th Century.
Resources
Lebanon has only limited natural resources. Iron oxides occur locally in the mountains and were some of the first
iron ores to be exploited; by the 7th century BC Lebanese iron was being exported to Babylon. Unfortunately irons
melting requires high temperatures and was a major factor in the deforestation. The limestone has also been used
as a building stone and for fertilizer and cement. The last two processes also use wood. There is no oil known but
drilling programs have been minimal and it may exist at depth.
The chief natural resource is water. The high mountains gave a high rainfall (widely over a meter a year in Mount
Lebanon), and the porous fractured limestone made excellent aquifers which were refilled over summer by slow
snow melt. The resulting abundant springs and rivers, unique to the region, gave the country its abundant forests
and legendary fertility. However due to the steep slopes and the stony, shallow soils this fertility has proved hard
to harness for agriculture and the removal of the forests tended to produce only short lived farming land.
In fact, the aspiring Geopark includes sites of geological, ecological, archaeological, historical and cultural values,
where many societies, natural, cultural and social history are inextricably linked and cannot be separated.
13
Rock types and land nature within the proposed Geopark are of 28 types as indicated in the table (1) below:
Table 1: Types of rocks and nature of lands with the aspiring Shouf-Jezzine Geopark
Geodiversity: The aspiring Geopark is characterized by a variety of geological particularities such as its location at
the intersection of several geological layers and in the center of an intense seismic activity. The different
geological layers of the proposed Geopark date back to the Jurassic (199-150 million years) and the Cretaceous
(145-70 million years) time. The rocks are essentially calcareous with the exception of some basaltic strata found
in the south and south/East of the Geopark (Table 1 and Figure 6). The latter is located between two major and
most active seismic faults in Lebanon. The first is Yammouneh and the second is that of Room (Figure 7). While
the aspiring Geopark is relatively far from the center of the intersection of the two faults, it is in an area that is
directly affected by the activity of tectonic plates.
14
Figure 6: Types of rocks in the Shouf-Jezzine Aspiring Geopark
15
Figure 7: A. Map of Levant fault system. B. Active faults of Lebanese re-straining bend where we can see the Room
fault. From DAËRON, 2004, “Constraints on the post 25-ka slip rate of the Yammouneh fault (Lebanon) using in situ
cosmogenic 36 C1 dating of offset limestone clast fans”, EPSL 227.
The Fault Yammouneh traverses Mount Lebanon from north to south and is parallel to the fault Rachaya-Serghaya
that goes through the AntiLebanon in the same direction.
These two faults are the
extension of the fault of the
Levant. The area of active folding
of Mount Lebanon is bordered
on the west along its entire
length by active faults. One of
these faults is Room. This Room
fault, passes through the
offshore of the central portion of
the Lebanese coast, and returns
to earth through the city of
Tripoli (Figure 7). Other small
faults are obvious and hidden in
the region of the proposed
Geopark and are probably a
Figure 8: Peaks and ravines of the Shouf-Jezzine Geopark
consequence of the activity of
the great fault of Room (Figure
7). This explains the very steep topography of Niha area within the proposed Geopark (peaks and ravines) (Figure
8).
Geology
Major tectonic movement divided Mount Lebanon into 2 parallel parts; the eastern range is called the AntiLebanon, and the western range is called Mount Lebanon. The two mountain ranges are separated by the Beqaa
Valley, which is composed of recent infill sediments.
The Barouk Mountain comprises rocks mainly from the second geological era: Jurassic (199 to 150 million years)
and cretaceous (145 to 70 million years).
The main rocks in the Barouk and Niha mountains are gray limestone (Bathonian - Callovian (167,7 - 164,7
million), some sandstone and a mix of clay-sandy and calcareous Aptian (125 million). Some parts of the Barouk
Mountain are cavernous limestone, with many surface features such as dolines indicating the underlying
cavernous form of the mountain range. One particularly noteworthy cave, estimated to be 700 meters long, is
located near Niha village. Villagers report an abundance of stalactites and stalagmites and that there is an
underground body of water.
Geomorphology
Further south from Dahr el-Baidar is the highest peak on the range at 1980 meters. The trend from north to south
is for the eastern slopes to change from very steep to less steep and for the western slopes to become
increasingly steep. The top of the Barouk range becomes increasingly narrow towards the south. The lowest peak
is located in Mrusti on the range of 1300 meters.
16
Hydrology
Precipitation in the watershed is the source of both surface stream flow and groundwater. The major portion of
this occurs as rain. Snowfall often occurs at
the upper elevations but snow seldom
persists more than a few days and disappears
before the end of the rainy season.
Normally snow has little overall direct effect
on stream-flow within the watershed.
However, on rare occasions warm rains
falling on the snow-pack may result in rapid
melting and release of large quantities of
water at a time when the soils are already
fully saturated. These conditions result in
rapid runoff and floods.
A large proportion of the exposed rock
surface in the Barouk region is cavernous,
Figure 9: Cavernous, fissured and broken limestone. Note: those people
fissured and broken limestone (Figure 9), and
are walking on an elevated trail that was constructed at the Roman time
its porous condition makes it very permeable. to avoid the water of the river when it runs
This results in much of the precipitation
infiltrating with minimum surface runoff despite the often-shallow soils and sparse vegetative cover. Water
percolates downward through the various formations and feeds the many large springs found on lower slopes in
the area. Such springs help maintain stream-flow during the April to November dry season. Surface water flows
originating on the range are mostly seasonal but some are perennial.
2. LISTING AND DESCRIPTION OF GEOLOGICAL SITES WITHIN THE PROPOSED GEOPARK
The main Geo sites of the proposed Geopark are:
1. The proposed Geopark is located on the southern part of the Mount Lebanon which resulted of tectonic
movement that divided the
mountain of Lebanon into 2 parallel
parts; the eastern range is called
the Anti-Lebanon, and the western
range is called Mount Lebanon
(Figure 10). Part of the latter
constitutes the Geopark.
2. The Geopark looks at the Rift Valley
that is represented by the Beqaa
Valley which is composed of recent
infill sediments between Mount
Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon (Figure
10).
Figure 10: Tectonic movement creating two mountains ranges and rift valley
3. The Barouk Mountain comprises rocks mainly from the second geological era: Jurassic (199 to 150 million
years) and cretaceous (145 to 70 million years).
17
4. The main rocks in the Barouk and Niha mountains are gray limestone (Bathonian - Callovian (167,7 164,7 million), some sandstone and a mix of clay-sandy and calcareous Aptian (125 million).
5. Some parts of the Barouk Mountain are cavernous limestone, with many surface features such as dolines
indicating the underlying cavernous form of the mountain range.
6. The Karsts areas of the proposed Geopark that are
landscapes of special geological and geomorphologic
interest calling for conservation.
7. Cave of the source of Niha: A large cave that opens
on the lower south western part of Jabal Niha. It is
very deep and its galleries are not accessible without
special equipment. It is estimated to be 700 meters
long. Villagers report an abundance of stalactites and
stalagmites (Figure 11) and that there is an
underground body of water or water source close to
it which is the reason it is called the Cave of the
spring.
Figure 11: Stalagmites at Niha cave with the Geopark
8. Qalaat Niha (Cliff of Niha with Troglodyte Caves - Niha Fortress): The cave fortress of Niha (Figure 12) is
called Cave of Tyron
(Frankish sources) and
Chquif Tayroun (Arabic
sources). The original
valve is enlarged and
carved into the rock of a
cliff overlooking the Bisri
and the Aray valley.
From
its
strategic
location, it monitors the
road between Sidon and
the Beqaa.
This fortress is shaped
like a cave and is over a
hundred meters deep.
Chambers and rooms
were dug to shelter the
Figure 12: Niha Fortress within the Geopark
soldiers. It has water in
abundance through a
system of collecting rain water. Water was also
channeled through a pipe from the Ain el-Halquoum
spring (Figure 13). It also had a considerable number of
silos for storing provisions. The Emir Fakhreddine II,
persecuted by the Pasha of Damascus, found refuge in
the cave fortress with his family before his execution in
1635. Ain El-Halkoum (Spring of Halkoum) Located near
the fortress of Niha to the south west of the village of
Niha. It is characterized by an abundance of water, and
the ruins around it attest to a former settlement.
18
Figure 13: Ain el-Halquoum Spring
Archaeological evidence shows that the water was channeled from this source to the fortress of Niha in
the days of Emir Fakhereddine. We can still see the traces of the water pipe leading from the source to
the fortress. It was probably built by the Emir Fakhreddine in the 17th century.
9. Shir Cliff of Jezzine: The Shiroffers panoramic views of the forested mountains (Figure 14)
Figure 14: Cliff of Jezzine
3. DETAILS ON THE INTEREST OF THESE SITES IN TERMS OF THEIR INTERNATIONAL, NATIONAL, REGIONAL OR LOCAL VALUE (FOR
EXAMPLE SCIENTIFIC, EDUCATIONAL, AESTHETIC)
The region of the Jezzine, the Niha Mountain as well as the Maasser and Barouk col are located on the
Yammouneh fault which is part of the big Levant Fault running from south to north. From the col of these
mountains one can see indirectly this fault buy seeing the immense impact of its activity.
Also from the region of Jezzine and the Marj Bisir valley, one can feel the geological impact of another major
seismic fault named the Roum Fault (after the village of Roum in the Caza of Jezzine) that caused for several times
the destruction of the coastal cities and especially Beirut during the byzantine period. The activity of this fault was
the reason why the Roman town and temple of the Marj Bisri mentioned above where destroyed and covered by
sediments.
We should also mention here the importance of the Marj Bisri valley in relation to the Jezzine Mountains and the
Mrusti passage. As we mentioned earlier an international road use to link Saida to the Beqaa and Syria through
the Awwali and Bisri valleys: from the Bisri one, the road can take two paths, one to Jezzine and then to
Machghara (this section is controlled by the Niha fort), and a second path to Baadarane and then Mrusti through
a mountain passage to the Beqa. These natural passages were exploited by locals since the roman times until the
end of the ottoman era.
19
The troglodyte fort of Niha is recorded by historical sources from the 10th century AD. It is built on one of the
highest cliffs of the Jabal Niha dominating the the Marj Bisiri valley. This monument has a unique history, it is the
place where Fakhreddine Maan the Great lived his final days before being arrested by the ottoman troops. The
architecture of this fort is unique since there is no other troglodyte fort in Lebanon except this one. The second
important troglodyte fort called el-Habis is located in Jordan. One should notice that there are other troglodyte
monuments in Lebanon especially in the north, but they never had a military role like the Niha monuments or
were as big and important as the Niha fort.
The Mountains of Lebanon including Shouf-Jezzine Geopark are perpendicular to the Atlas Mountains and assist
as such the migrating soaring birds in their passage to the south by providing them with wind lifts when the
thermals are rare or absent, especially in the autumn migration (lifts are created when the wind hits slopes and
ridges of mountains). During spring passage, the birds are not only provided with thermals and wind lifts but also
with a wind movement from south-west to north-east which predominate except in winter time.
A large proportion of the exposed surface rock in the region is cavernous, fissured and broken limestone, and its
porous condition makes it very permeable. This results in much of the precipitation infiltrating with minimum
surface runoff despite the often-shallow soils and sparse vegetative cover. Water percolates downward through
the various formations and feeds the many large springs found on lower slopes in the area. Such springs help
maintain stream-flow during the April to November dry season. Surface water flows originating on the range are
mostly seasonal but some are perennial. Underground water generates outflow rivers such as the Al Awali River,
more commonly known as Al-Barouk River and Damour River, known as Al-Safa River. The resulting springs,
streams and rivers are associated with riparian vegetation that is attractive to special fauna and flora structures.
The summit of the range is considered as a divide between two hydrological systems because of the difference
between the two slopes of the mountain. The eastern slope is much steeper and favors surface stream flows,
whereas the western slope is less steep and favors ground water aquifers.
The rivers that flow in the valleys are the major source of agriculture irrigation and supply around hundred Shouf
villages with domestic water and some of the western Beqaa villages.
4. LISTING AND DESCRIPTION OF OTHER SITES OF NATURAL, CULTURAL AND INTANGIBLE HERITAGE INTEREST AND HOW THEY ARE
RELATED TO THE GEOLOGICAL SITES AND HOW THEY ARE INTEGRATED INTO THE PROPOSED GEOPARK
The proposed Shouf-Jezzine Geopark is well known for its geo diversity and biodiversity. It is known by its
protected areas that form the largest part of the protected areas of Lebanon, its diversity of fauna and flora, its
ancient cedar forests, and its various clean water springs as well as its antiquities, traditional villages and culture.
The proposed Geopark has an excellent network of ecotourism trails, unique specimens of caves, old shrines and
churches.
4.1. Important agricultural production
Shouf-Jezzine Geopark has a population of 80000 inhabitants and its local economy is based on ecotourism and
agricultural production with an emphasis on olive oil production (of exceptionally high quality), pine seeds (1kg=
40$), distillery, wide variety of fresh and dried fruits, dairy products, bottled drinking water, artisanal work and
food processed products.
4.2. Cedar value & Cedar in history
The proposed Geopark contains small stands of Cedar tree Cedrus libani that represents the most globally
southern limit of its geographical distribution. The cedar trees enjoy the unique distinction as the oldest
20
documented trees in history. The cedars were featured prominently in the earliest written records of the
Sumerians dating from the third millennium BC. The Epic of Gilgamesh describes the cedar forests of Lebanon as
being “one thousand leagues long and one thousand leagues wide”. Indeed, the cedars made a special
contribution to the development of the Phoenician civilization by providing the timbers with which they
developed their famous sea-going merchant boats - thus becoming one of the first, if not the first, major seagoing trading nation in the world. The Phoenicians transported the cedar to Egypt, until Egypt conquered Lebanon
and gained direct access to the forests, which were highly prized for building temples and boats. Later the
Babylonians took a similar interest in the cedars and obtained them for use in building the fabled city of Babylon.
People around the world are familiar with the cedars of Lebanon because of numerous references in the texts of
the Old Testament. The Bible records in some detail how King Solomon, King of Israel, asked King Hiram of Tyre to
cut and transport vast quantities of cedar wood for building his temple and palace in Jerusalem. In the 6th
Century BC, Persian control of the Phoenician ports provided the Persians with the means of assembling a navy
for use against their enemies the Greeks, who were already embarrassing the Persians with their mobility in the
Mediterranean. The expansion of the Roman Empire into Syria and Lebanon had a detrimental effect on the
cedars until the Emperor Hadrian installed markers around the boundary of the remaining forests and declared
them as Imperial Domain. Specimens of these markers have been preserved and held in museum collections. The
Cedars of Lebanon are an important part of the cultural heritage of the people of Lebanon.
4.3. Biodiversity value:
The proposed Geopark is well known for its diverse biological heritage. Its geological formation is blanketed with
oak forests, pine forests, juniper trees and few small Cedar stands. For the latter, the Geopark constitutes the
southern limit of the Cedrus libani distribution.
4.3.1. Ecosystem Diversity:
The proposed Geopark belongs to two Mediterranean levels:
1) the meso-Mediterranean level (500-1000 meters altitude) as described in Corine classification, and which
extends on the low parts of the Geopark,
2) the "Supra-Mediterranean Level" of vegetation which extends over the mid-high parts of the eastern and
western slopes up to 1500 meters of altitude, with oak trees as dominant species, but on the western
slopes the cedar trees dominate between 1050 - 1925 meters, and
3) the "Montane Mediterranean Level" that covers both slopes between 1500 and 1900 meters with cedar
dominant trees on the western slopes and absence of cedar trees on the eastern slopes where the oak
and azarole trees take place.
4.3.2.Flora
The proposed Geopark harbors a rich flora, many of them medicinal, edible, and aromatic plants. The reserve is
home to 25 internationally and nationally threatened species; 48 endemic to Lebanon or the
Syria/Lebanon/Turkey area; 14 rare species; and 214 species that are restricted to the EasternMediterranean or
Middle East area.
The proposed Geopark, however, is most famous for hosting the largest stands of Lebanese cedar (Cedrus libani)
in the country. The Cedar of Lebanon is a highly symbolic, world-famous conifer tree, and one of the most cited
plants in history, religion and mythology. It also hosts about 620 hectares of cedar forest, which are largely
confined to the steeper and less accessible areas. The proposed Geopark represents the natural southern limit of
this tree. Nowadays the cedar forest, protected from grazing and other human interference, is showing clear signs
of natural regeneration.
21
The following species deserve special mention:
1-Cedrus libani which is the symbol of Lebanon and main significant component of the reserve,
Figure 15: Cedrus libani
2-Quercus brantii for its forest cover which characterizes the site,
Figure 16: Quercus brantii
3-Arrhenatherum elatius and Melica inaequiglumis because they are rare and localized in the reserve
where they have suffered in the near past from grazing,
Figure 17: Arrhenatherum elatius
Figure 18: Melica inaequiglumis
22
4-Helichrysum pallasii due to its status as threatened in the past and not very common at all heights of
the reserve,
Figure 19: Helichrysum pallasii
5-Tulipa montana and Phytolacca pruinosa for their ornamental and economic values and for the fact
they are found in very limited numbers within the reserve,
Figure 20: Tulipa montana
Figure 21: Phytolacca pruinosa
6-Cephalaria cedrorum because of its endemism to Al-Shouf Cedar only,
Figure 22: Cephalaria cedrorum
23
7-Gundelia tournefortii as locally threatened because it is heavily collected and uprooted by people and
for its consuming value, high demand and high price,
Figure 23: Gundelia tournefortii
8-Origanum ehrenbergii and Origanum syriacum as well as Rhuscoriara which are considered
multipurpose species and consequently widely harvested by people, and
Figure 24: Origanum ehrenbergii
Figure 25: Origanum syriacum
9-Geum urbanum and Micromeria myrtifolia for being highly recommended medicinal species.
Figure 26: Geum urbanum
Figure 27: Micromeria myrtifolia
24
4.3.3. Mammals
The Al-Shouf Cedar Reserve and the suggested Geoparkare one of the last remaining areas in Lebanon where
larger mammals that once roamed the region can still be
found, such as the wolf, wild boar and wild cat or can be
reintroduced such as the ibex and mountain gazelle.
Wolves are few and their numbers are unlikely to hold a
stable population, due to the absence of large herbivores on
which the wolf feeds. Striped hyenas are found on the
borders of the proposed Geopark, mainly feeding on the
Figure 28: Wild cat photos by Mounir Abi Said
garbage dumps and agricultural crops of surrounding villages.
Wild boar, wild cat and jungle cat have all increased in
numbers since the Al-Shouf Cedar Reserve was established, as well as the jackal, red fox, porcupine, and squirrel.
The gazelle is sporadic in the area.
4.3.4. Birds
Over 250 bird species have been recorded in the Al-Shouf Cedar Reserve and the proposed Geopark. The birdlife
of the Shoufmountains includes rare birds such as the Syrian serin (Serinus syriacus), Eagle owl (Bubo bubo),
Chukar partridge (Alectoris chukar), Long-legged buzzard (Buteorufinus), etc. The whole area, placed strategically
between Europe, Africa, and West Asia, is very important for bird migration. Every year countless storks, birds of
prey and other migrants pass over the Barouk-Niha-Jezzine area and use it as a roosting site.
Figure 29: Lesser Spotted Eagle photographed by Ghassan RAMADAN-JARADI
4.3.5. Reptiles and amphibians
The region contains 31 species, including chameleon, tortoise, and several species of snakes, lizards, frogs, and
toads.
Figure 30: Chameleon photographed by Souad Hraoui Bloquet
RAMADAN-JARADI
25
The biodiversity of the proposed Geopark is visited by 15,000 people in 2004, however after the 2006 war the
number dropped to 12,000, but rebounded to 30,000 in 2009 and 60,000 in 2012 and 65,000 in 2014.
4.4. ECOSYSTEM SERVICES:
The natural environment provides the foundations of our society and our economy. It not only makes life possible
on Earth but it makes it worth living. Unfortunately, our economic system fails to recognize most of the services
that nature provides to humans, as well as the intrinsic value it already has “per se”. This lack of awareness about
how nature contributes to our collective and individual wellbeing is one of the reasons why we are failing to
protect the natural systems we depend on. Revealing the economic value of these systems is a helpful exercise
which can help raise awareness; engage the public; and encourage policy action to ensure these systems are
protected.
Thus an economic value study of the Shouf Biosphere Reserve (SBR), which is a main part of the proposed
geopark, was conducted in 2014 and was structured according to three phases:
1. Identification of key ecosystem services,
2. Data collection, and
3. Describing most relevant services in monetary terms.
Like most nature valuation studies, rather than attempting to value all ecosystem services flowing from the
reserve, the economic value study focused on the most significant ones. Following several visits to the SBR and
meetings with the staff of the reserve, it was agreed to focus on describing the value of the following services:






Carbon sequestration,
Fuel provision (briquettes production),
Water provision,
Food provision,
Tourism, and
Cultural services and patrimonial value.
Some of these (e.g., food, water, recreation, briquettes) have economic activity linked to them which can help us
value the corresponding ecosystem service. The described economic value study compiled local data to estimate
the value of the economic activity associated with those services. Gross revenues and employment – not
monetized - are used to value the ecosystem services related to food, water and fuel provision as well as leisure
activity. The value of Carbon sequestration services provided by the Reserve is estimated using a previous
estimate about C sequestration potential and one of the proxies for the price of Carbon.
Cultural services could not be described in monetary terms and were therefore only described qualitatively. For
example, what is the patrimonial value of the Lebanese cedar? Also, the contribution of the SBR to enhancing
Lebanon’s image is priceless but could not be valued for the same reasons.
26
Ecosystem service
Based on the above analysis and limitations,
the results show that the economic benefits
generated by Shouf Biosphere Reserve every
year are in the range of 16.7 to 21.3 million US
dollars. Most of these benefits derive from
water services including grid water quality and
bottled water. The value of Carbon
sequestration services and production of
biomass (i.e., briquette) is also significant.
Tourism injects annually an additional
$700,000 in the region and supports local
employment equivalent to circa 100 jobs.
Whereas some of the previous ecosystem
services are intangible, the economic value of
tourism activities in the SBR is tangible, and
growing.
The estimated value of SBR services is
summarized in the table 2 .
Most of the economic benefits described above
can be attributed to the presence of the SBR,
either in whole or in part. For example, the
Reserve plays a key role in securing the supply
of water to a local population of at least
116,000 and maintaining water quality in the
region; as such, one can argue that those
benefits would not be at the same level if the
SBR was not there. Tourism related
expenditure can also be attributed to the
presence of the SBR because if it was absent,
spontaneous and unregulated tourism would
eventually deplete or degrade the natural
resource. Likewise, Carbon sequestration and
the potential for biomass production are only
possible
thanks
to
the
sustainable
management guaranteed by the presence of
the Reserve and its management team.
Value ($/year)
Carbon:
C sequestration
$860,000
Seed collection for nurseries
Biomass provision
$50,000
$200,000- $1,000,000
Water provision:
Grid water (Barouk and Safa)
Grid water (eastern district)
Water bottling industry
$8,437,500 - $11,250,000
$785,250 - $1,047,000
$2,640,000 - $3,360,000
Ecological benefits of Ammiq wetland
$600,000
Hydropower
$1,300,000
Food provision:
Rangelands for animal production
$600,000
Rural products (SBR label)
$130,000
Incremental honey production
$450,000
Tourism:
Tourism entrance fees
$186,000
Guesthouse accommodation
$79,000
Conventional restaurants
$247,500
Tawlet Ammiq (Eco-restaurant)
$200,000
Cultural services:
Total
Priceless
$16,765,250 $21,359,500
Table2: Ecosystem Service value of SBR
However it is important to emphasize that the economic value study of the SBR did not look into detail at
attribution issues and did not attempt to answer a difficult question: how much of this value would still be there if
the reserve did not exist? This is an area that requires further research and discussion because the process of
determining attribution is not easy or straight-forward and is often based on personal judgment.Although the
attribution element is not fully analysed, it is worth mentioning that many goods and services provided by SBR
have not been valued in the Economic Valuation study (see figure 31).
27
It is not possible to describe the entire value of the SBR in monetary terms. Thus, the conducted Economic value
study only describes part of the middle box (what you can capture in rents) and part of the dark blue box (what
you can describe in monetary terms), but it does not even go into the light blue box. Therefore, when interpreting
the results presented, it is important to remember that they only reflect one fraction of the total value of services
provided by the SBR.
Figure 31: New Economics Foundation adapted from TEEB
1
Despite these limitations, the economic value of the SBR (about $19 million on average) vastly exceeds the
operational budget of the SBR team (about $1 million including investment and maintenance), by a factor of 20 to
1. Stated simply, every $1 invested in the SBR returns $20 of benefits to the region and the people.
Nature is priceless and by extension the SBR, which is part of the proposed geopark, is priceless too.
4.5. CULTURAL, ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND HISTORICAL VALUES
The Aspiring Shouf-Jezzine Geopark is a nexus of many cultures, religions, and historical events, all of which have
left an imprint that makes the area’s cultural heritage as rich as its ecosystems.
Some sacred places are considered a new frontier for interdisciplinary research on their own merits and for their
relevance for biodiversity conservation. The religious or cultural designation of an area as sacred, especially those
which are relatively natural, may either intentionally or coincidentally promote the conservation of its associated
biodiversity. Such sacred places can complement national parks and other protected areas established by
governments. Collaboration among religious, governmental, scientific, and/or conservation agencies may be
desirable for the protection of sacred sites and landscapes. In Lebanon, most of the religious sacred sites are on
top of mountain peaks in isolated areas. They are called “Shrine” and “mausoleum”
The following are a few examples of cultural and historical landmarks of the proposed geopark:
4.5.1. The Khalwat of Niha: A Khalwa is a retreat and prayer place for the Druze. The Khalwat of Niha are on a
fairly high hill, and composed of many vaulted rooms (Figure 32) that were used by the Ward family at the time of
the Druze spiritual leader Sheikh Fakhereddine Bin Nasser al-Din Ward. Ward was reputed to be wise and pious.
The Khalwat formerly consisted of several vaulted rooms dating from the Ottoman period. We can see remains of
these structures near a large oak tree (Figure 33).
28
Figure 32: Khalwat of Niha
Figure 33: Khalwat at the base of a big oak tree
4.5.2. Nabi Ayyoub (Prophet Job): There is no exact date on
the construction of this mausoleum (Figure 24) or place of
worship (Figure 34). According to a popular tradition in
Niha, the prophet Job became ill in Houran/Syria and
emigrated with his wife to settle on a mountaintop in Niha
el-Chouf where he recovered. The site, in its present form,
dates back to 19th and 20th century.
4.5.3. Qalaat Niha (Niha Cliff with Troglodyte Caves – Figure 34: Mausoleum of Niha
Figure 12 above): The cave fortress of Niha is also called
Cave of Tyron (Frankish sources) and Chquif Tayroun (Arabic sources). It is carved into the rock of a cliff
overlooking the Bisri and the Aray valley. From its strategic location, it monitors the road between Sidon and the
Beqaa. This fortress is shaped like a cave and is over a hundred meters deep. Chambers and rooms were dug to
shelter the soldiers. It has water in abundance through a system of collecting rain water. Water was also
channeled through a pipe from the Ain el-Halkoum spring. It also had a considerable number of silos for storing
provisions. The Emir Fakhreddine II, persecuted by the Pasha of Damascus, found refuge in the cave fortress with
his family before his execution in 1635. Ain El-Halkoum (Spring of Halkoum) Located near the fortress of Niha to
the south west of the village of Niha. It is characterized by an abundance of water, and the ruins around it attest
to a former settlement. Archaeological evidence shows that the water was channeled from this source to the
fortress of Niha in the days of Emir Fakhreddine. We can still see the traces of the water pipe leading from the
source to the fortress. It was probably built by the Emir Fakhreddine in the 17th century.
4.5.4. Ain El-Halkoum (Spring of Halkoum): Located near the fortress of Niha to the south west of the village of
Niha (Figure 13 above). It is characterized by an abundance of water, and the ruins around it attest to a former
settlement. Archaeological evidence shows that the water was channeled from this source to the fortress of Niha
in the days of Emir Fakhreddine Maan II. We can still see the traces of the water pipe leading from the source to
the fortress. The spring was probably built by the Emir Fakhreddine in the 17th century.
4..5.5. The Birket el-Arouss Bridge is one of a kind, it is one of the oldest still in use bridges of Lebanon, and it
dates back to the end of the Mamluk period (dated by an Arabic inscription from 1507 AD) hence more than 500
years old. Beside this fact, it is built on deep ravine, the distance from the pavement of the bridge until the
bottom of the narrow valley is 15 meters which makes it the only known bridge in Lebanon built on this high
altitude.
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4.5.6. The Marj Bisri Roman temple: this temple belongs to a forgotten city that was destroyed and submerged
by meters of mud and sediments due to an important seismic activity. Only four granite columns of the temple
facade and a narrow part of the Temenos wall can still be seen. This unique archaeological structure in Lebanon
and in the Middle East was an important town on a major trading route that was used to link the cost of Saida
through the Nahr el-Awwali valley to the Marj Bisri and crosses the mountain to reach the Beqaa valley and then
the Damscus zone. This road was in use from the roman era until the ottoman one. This temple and town are built
in a place with important religious significance for the Phoenicians inhabitant of Sidon (the actual Saida). On the
intersection of the Nahr el-Barouk and the Aray streams starts the Awwali River known in antiquity as the river of
Asclepios the Greek version of the Phoenician god Echmoun (the patron of Sidonians). On this particular place is
built the town and the temple probably dedicated to Echmoun.
4.5.7. Saint Georges Church: There is no
specific date regarding the construction
of this church (Figure 23) in Niha, but
folk stories say it is more than 140 years
old. It was probably built in the time of
Magarious Youssef al-Haddad. It is said
that a number of miracles took place in
this church.
4.5.8. Saint Joseph Church: This church
(Figure 24) was constructed in Niha
during the rule of Emir Fakhreddine. It is
claimed that the Abou Rached family
settled in Niha after fleeing from the
village of Beshaaleh in the North, and
that during a visit from Emir Ali son of
Fakhreddine, the Abou Rached family
gave him a grand reception. As a
reward, he granted them 25 Liras of
Gold to construct a house and a church.
Figure 35: St. Georges Church
Figure 36: St. Joseph Church
4.5.9. Cave of the source of Niha: A large cave that opens on the lower south western part of Jabal Niha. It is very
deep and its galleries are not accessible without special equipment. There is a water source close to it which is the
reason it is called the Cave of the spring.
4.5.10. The source of Niha: Located in the
southeast of the village (Figure 37), it irrigates the
gardens and apple trees in the "al-Naher” area. A
portion of its water was channeled to Niha village
more than a century ago and has been distributed
on different water points that are still visible in the
center of town. This water was then channeled to
individual houses in later years. It is interesting to
note that Niha is self sufficient in water.
Figure 37: Water source in vicinity of the Niha Cave
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4.5.11. Lower Bridge: An old bridge linking the two parts of
Niha, the old village and the district of al-Qate', and was
built in the 19th century (Figure 38). Near the bridge is the
site of the old village school consisting of three small
separate buildings.
Figure 38: Lower Bridge
4.5.12. Cascade of Jezzine: The most picturesque
town in Southern Lebanon, Jezzine is most famed
for its glorious waterfalls that cascade down from
a height of 40 meters (Figure 39).
4.5.13. Jezzine specialty: Jezzine is renowned for its
production of handmade, traditional cutlery and
daggers with decorative inlays. They are made of inlaid
mosaics and bone. The unique cutlery has been
presented as gifts to dignitaries all over the world as a
unique memento of Lebanon (Figure 40). Jezzine has
also a long tradition in pottery and wood carving.
Figure 39: Water fall – Cascade Jezzine
Figure 40: Knifes and Sword from Jezzine.
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4.5.14. Seat of Maronite bishops: Bkassine village hosts a historic 17th-century convent, which served as the
regional seat of the Maronite bishops.
4.5.15.Canaan Palace: 400 years old Canaan Family Palace at Jezzine.
4.6. SCENIC LANDSCAPES
Various elements of the Shouf-Jezzine area
are clearly valued as scenic landscapes. At the
macro level, the rugged undeveloped ridge
system which forms a distinct skyline is seen
from many areas outside the Shouf protected
area. The scenic landscape significance of this
is greatly enhanced in winter with a cover of
snow (Figure 30), and is enhanced by the
natural foreground of the protected area. To
the east the grandeur of the Beqaa valley,
vividly patterned by the agricultural fields,
contrasts with the rugged starkness of the
Anti-LebanonMountains further to the east.
The Qaraoun Lake punctuates the
agriculturally patterned valley in the south.
Figure 41: Snow covering cedar in winter
At the local/precinct level several of the cedar stands, in particular the Maasser Al-Shouf, are recognized as
outstanding scenic landscapes, the larger cedars contributing in a most distinctive way to the landscape.
Individual trees can and do attract a lot of positive response from visitors to the area. The aesthetic experience of
seeing some of the larger cedars is undoubtedly enhanced for the visitor by awareness of the important part they
played in the history of Lebanon.
Some of the rugged rocky karst topography of the upper montane areas has a distinctive scenic beauty of its own.
In summer, small grassy meadows persist in doline depressions, and contrast with the surrounding starkness of
the white and gray limestone (Figure 42).
Figure 41: Grassy meadows
32
In Bkassine, the largest pine forest in the Middle East offers another scenic view made of a green carpet.
Figure 42: Largest areas of Stone Pine forests in the Middle East at Bkassine/ Jezzine.
The western slope of the mountain, with the different patches of oak forests gives way to the surrounding villages
with red tile roofs. On some days the Mediterranean Sea may be seen from the summit of the mountain range.
C - GEOCONSERVATION
1. CURRENT OR POTENTIAL PRESSURE ON THE PROPOSED GEOPARK.
The main potential pressures on the proposed geopark can be summarized by:
Urbanization:
From the Shouf side under the Government legislation, law No. 532 of 24 July 1996 all communal lands of villages
surrounding the SBR, in addition to the Government owned lands on the eastern side of Barouk Mountain were
declared as a Nature Reserve. Thus all the lands within the core area of the reserve are well-protected and
managed directly by the Shouf Biosphere Reserve. However, within the buffer zone and in case of the private
intrusions with the communal lands, unorganized development and uncontrolled construction can arise to impose
a pressure on the proposed Geopark (especially in case of large private lands). Thus regulating urbanization is a
need to preserve the green spaces and part of the proposed geopark.
Quarries:
The excessive quarrying and excavation works in Jezzine will be a potential pressure on the proposed Geopark.
Jezzine quarries are operating to excavate rocks and mainly dimension stones that are used for constructing
buildings and monuments. This is causing environmental devastation and destroying the natural mountainous
zones of Jezzine. The coalition between Shouf Biosphere Reserve and Jezzine and their designation as Geopark
will strengthen the local communities to face the continuous establishment of quarries as it was already done in
the Shouf nature reserve when it was declared a biosphere reserve.
33
Grazing:
Grazing is another pressure on the proposed Geopark. From the Shouf side grazing activities are well-monitored
and regularized by the Shouf Biosphere Reserve that worked on developing a program for livestockmanagement
to reach the decided aim which is elevating a better and effective use of the rangeland, conservation of this land,
and at the same time increasing animal productivity. Thus due to the strict control by reserve rangers, the number
of herds has declined drastically and is now limited to herders from the adjacent villages.
Jezzine municipality and local authorities are working to duplicate the Shouf experience and apply the standard
measures needed for effective protection.
2. CURRENT STATUS IN TERMS OF PROTECTION OF GEOLOGICAL SITES WITHIN THE PROPOSED GEOPARK
The areas within the Shouf reserve’s territory are all protected and well managed by the Shouf Biosphere Reserve
for instance: Niha fort which is an important attraction pole in the southern parts of the SBR and all other sites
that exemplify the geologic, natural and cultural heritage of the Shouf region are under the direct protection of
the Shouf Biosphere Reserve and the local authorities.
From the Jezzine side the municipal union has a good strategy to manage the natural and geological sites there in
a sustainable way.
3. DATA ON THE MANAGEMENT AND MAINTENANCE OF ALL HERITAGE SITES (GEOLOGICAL AND NON-GEOLOGICAL).
The Shouf is a nexus of many cultural, natural, and heritage sites. All the heritage sites that are part of the reserve
are managed in close cooperation with the Shouf Biosphere Reserve. Within the Shouf Biosphere Reserve an
Integrated Monitoring Program was formulated to pave the way for the implementation of successful adaptive
management principles relying on developed tools. This program provokes adaptive management practices of
gathering and using scientific information to evaluate and improve management decisions and practices on the
ground. In addition to the Threat Reduction Assessment that focuses on the quantitative aspects of threat
reduction, thereby making it a practical and innovative addition to the practice of managing the protected areas
and the occurring changes over brief periods.
These tools assisted the management team in managing all the ecological trends of the reserve sites.
Regarding maintenance some sites might still need some maintenance as the old bridge in Niha that leads to
Niha’s spring.
Assisted by Shouf Biosphere Reserve, the municipalities Union of Jezzine is already already taking practical
measures in managing, protecting and maintaining geological heritages as well as cultural and natural values. The
Union is carrying out geological studies and science education and promoting local economic and social
development in order to promote sustainable development.
D - ECONOMIC ACTIVITY & BUSINESS PLAN (INCLUDING DETAILED FINANCIAL INFORMATION)
Before being informed about the Geopark Concept, the Management Plan and the Ecotourism Strategy of
the Shouf Biosphere Reserve indicated the followings:
- Geology is a main component in the conservation program of the Shouf Biosphere Reserve
- An educational geology trail can be established and marketed as the “Niha Geology Trail”
- Geology helped the historical leader Emir Fakhreddine to hide in Niha Fortress
- Geology is a good subject for any nature lover to meditate and paint landscapes
- Geology is a good basis for adventure and rope activities
34
1. ECONOMIC ACTIVITY IN THE PROPOSED GEOPARK
The proposed Geopark is formed from two parts: The first part lies under the management of the Shouf Biosphere
Reserve that cares for the three functions of Biosphere Reserves (Conservation: landscapes, ecosystems, species,
and genetic variation; Development: economic and
cultural; Logistic support: research, monitoring,
environmental education, and training. This part
has its own strategy, management plan, business
plan and ecotourism plan. The second part is
formed from additional areas to the south to
include Jezzine and its surroundings. These two
parts complement each other. The management
entity of Shouf is trying to spread its practices and
transmit its experience to cover Jezzine and use the
geosites and cultural sites of the latter as part of
ecotourism package as it is indicated in the
ecotourism strategy. Jezzine welcomed this strategy
after seeing the success of Shouf. On its turn Shouf
is seeking additional attributes to strengthen its
status nationally, regionally and internationally.
Figure 43: Snowshoeing in the Geopark
Shouf launched its Rural Development Program in
1999, to support local communities by providing training and marketing outlets for their products. However, the
program did not generate a lot of revenues, primarily because it developed and expanded spontaneously over the
years. It was also hampered by the volatile political and security situation in Lebanon, which negatively impacted
the ecotourism sector in Lebanon and the Reserve. In view of the current situation, Shouf selected a local firm to
conduct a marketing and business plan for its rural products in order to improve the program and increase
revenues to Shouf and the local community. There are currently 82 products carrying the Shouf Biosphere
Reserve label, which are produced in a traditional way by local community households. Shouf is not directly
involved in the rural production process; a program agent / coordinator who was contracted by Shouf to oversee
the rural program, is currently in charge of production, distribution and marketing. The agent contacts individuals
(primarily women) from the local community to participate in the production process. They are reimbursed for
their raw material and they receive payment for their services, while the agent provides any other needed
supplies including jars and bottles. Products are primarily sold at two reserve entrances (Barouk and Maasser elShouf), where Reserve guides are responsible for product sale and promotion, and hence receive 15% of the total
revenues from entrance sales as incentive pay. The Shouf receives 10% of total revenues and the program agent
receives approximately 25%, while the cost of production –i.e., income to local community- is estimated to
represent the remaining 50% of gross revenues. In 2008, revenues from entrance sales amounted to about
$28,000; the “best sellers” were cedar and oak honey.
The economic studies conducted by the management Committee of Shouf-Jezzine proposes that the production
will be gradually increased. It seeks new outlets while maintaining the territorial image and uniqueness of the
Shouf Biosphere Reserve and Jezzine. The marketing strategy is based on “selection and selectivity” (in terms of
product range, distribution channel, and target market). The study suggests a more focused product range, in
order to capture niche markets, focus on and improve product quality, and maximize returns. The new product
range was based on a Boston matrix developed to classify products into Stars, Cash Cows, Question marks and
Dogs, based on sale values for 2005-2008 - Stars are products that sold more than 300 items; Cash cows sold 150300 items ; Question marks sold 100-150 items; and Dogs sold less than 100 items.
35
The study also proposes a new
product range as follows: (1) a
“Permanent collection” of 28 highprofit or promising items (Stars,
Cash Cows, and Question marks),
(2) an “Organic” collection of three
items, (3) a collection of “new
items” for product testing –no
more than two items per year, and
(4) a collection of “special orders”.
The aspiring Geopark area is also
known for its olive groves and pine forests (largest pine groves in the Middle East where 1 kg is 60 US$), its oak
and cedar forests; its antiquities, the traditional villages and culture. It has an excellent network of ecotourism
trails, beside historic shrines, churches and unique specimens of rural architecture.
Since the establishment of Shouf Reserve, tourism was regarded as a priority by the managing committee and has
seen a rapid development, which has brought strong stream of tourists, materials, information and capital.
Economic benefits have remarkably improved.
The projection of visitors’ expected and real contribution was set by a study as follows:
Year
Study Projection in US$
1- 2004
2- 2005
3- 2006
52,301
62,761
Annual Growth (%)
20
Real Annual Visitors’
Contribution in US$
70,000
54,000
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in the Shouf area either in classical hotels (Hotel Mir Amin Palace, Auberge La Bastide, Barouk Palace Hotel) or at
guesthouses in the villages (el-Barouk, el-Khreibeh, Baadarane, Maasser el-Shouf, Niha el-Shouf) or even at the
ecolodge of Ammiq. At Jezzine, lodging is facilitated by Auberge Wehbe, Iris Hotel Apartments, Etoile du Loup,
and Rizk Plaza lodge. Tourism is booming with a group of tour guides, more than 20 companies involved in
tourism and above 50 people employed in this field. As tourist commodities, the agricultural and special products,
such as jam, thyme, honey, syrup, rose distilled water, molass, olive products, herbs, etc.prospered as sold
products. Recent inclusion of geosites from Shouf and Jezzine increased the number of visitors after the number
of ecotourism packages is increased. The tourism in Shouf-Jezzine Aspiring Geopark has become beside Jezzine
District a growth pole of the Shouf District economies. Shouf Biosphere Reserve and Jezzine take the lead in the
development of tourism economy in their own area and have become a center of the development of tourism
economy in the area of Shouf-Jezzine and its surroundings.
Shouf-Jezzine Geopark has relatively complete and systematic infrastructures of education and material objects
for science education. The international and domestic academic activities are often carried out in this Geopark.
Three featured places such as Shouf Biosphere Reserves visitor’s centers and Exhibition modest hall of
Paleontological Fossils, butterflies and dragonflies collections have been built as the base for geological science
and scientific research on biodiversity and education for primary and secondary school students and college
students with 10 interpretative signs in Arabic, French and English. A geological museum with a display area and a
video and movie hall and an information room is under design. The Park House has been equipped with an
electronic display screen and a touch screen as well as a perfect network service system. It has fully the conditions
for receiving the scientific research and academic groups, graduate students, postgraduates and doctoral students
for the purpose of research projects. However, the Park House is located in Maasser El Shouf and incorporates a
tourist information center. The proposed Geopark plans to construct a new geological museum and exhibition
hall, a lecture room, and a meeting hall. The site selection plan has been determined. In addition, another 12
interpretative signs in Arabic, French and English will be added in the geological heritages.
The Geopark has three trails of geo scientific tours and will have one tour guide service center. The popular
interpretative signs have been designed for the geopark entrances and famous scenic spots. Six sales points of
tourism propaganda materials are planned to be established in the Geopark.
2. EXISTING AND PLANNED FACILITIES FOR THE PROPOSED GEOPARK (E.G. GEO-EDUCATION, GEOTOURISM, TOURISM
INFRASTRUCTURE ETC)
Since its inception, Shouf-Jezzine Geopark is planning to create an educational trail on geosites for schools. This is
a most significant product because it embraces ecotourism principles and is a great opportunity for parkmanagers
to create educational activities inside protected areas and in Jezzine that serve as living earth museums! With the
emergence of the practice of nature conservation and sustainable development worldwide there is a genuine
interest to introduce these practices to schools and universities. In Lebanon most of the visits to protected areas
and Niha-Jezzine have been organized by the Shouf Biosphere Reserve (SBR) in the form of recreational outings.
However, there is a need for more serious educational activities and for this to be implemented the following
steps should be considered:
- Identify the educational activities related to the environment, nature conservation that are represented
by the SBR and geosites protection by the Geopark.
- Identify a list of equipment needed for conducting such activities (binoculars, clay, pencils, papers,
pictures, containers, pliers, magnifying glass)
- Identify the appropriate zones in the SBR for such activities
- Create packages of educational activities
- Train local guides and park rangers
- Market and promote the educational opportunities in the SBR at schools and universities
37
Shouf Jezzine Geopark has already taken practical measures in protecting geological heritages, carrying out
geological studies and science education and promoting local economic and social development in order to
promote sustainable development.
The Shouf Built Heritage Conservation Project (SBHCP) in collaboration with the local and national authorities
presents a strategic approach to protect, preserve and enhance both the authenticity of the Shouf cultural
identity and the responsible tourism industry. The project also aims to improve the quality of life for the local
residents and reduce migration and immigration. Beginning with the conservation of the Shouf region as a first
step in collaboration with the Shouf Biosphere Reserve (SBR) the major monuments have been identified and
indicated in the tourist map for this region. In its second phase, the project will prepare a tourist map
incorporating Jezzine area and adding to its content all identified geosites. This will be under a strategy based on a
comprehensive survey on the level of the Jezzine region. To do this, the work will be carried out on three axes:
A - Survey and documentation
- Survey and documentation of all geological and archaeological sites and historical buildings and construction.
- Develop general maps of each town and its outlying areas with the identification of geological and archaeological
sites.
- Fill out special forms with full information on the construction
B - Study and evaluation
- There are a lot of forgotten geosites and monuments dating back to different historical periods in the Jezzine
region.
C - Treatment strategy and solutions.
The Shouf-Jezzine Aspiring Geopark has already identified trails for tourists in order to easily reach all identified
geosites and cultural sites with packages of one day or more, tacking in consideration the age of the hikers. For
the purpose of managing the Shouf-Jezzine Aspiring Geopark, the existing managerial committee is cooperating
actively with local communities to develop local characteristic art crafts and souvenirs. Jezzine is renowned for its
craft stores and production of geological based products.
Additional attraction to the tourists are the summer festivals and events in every single village of the 20 villages
forming the aspiring Geopark.
The touristic development of the Shouf-Jezzine proposed Geopark will be implemented during the first using the
SBR Operational Program financial resource. The implementation includes a fourth visitor centre and thematic
and interactive exhibition of karst features. The implementation will contribute to the conservation of the caves
and to the high quality of interpretation and safety. The plans of many of panels already exist or are under editing
and their placement at the nature trail-heads or along the nature trails will be implemented after the – hopefully
positive – decision about the GGN membership of the Geopark. This way there is no double-cost of producing and
placing and the GGN logo can be indicated.
Further geotour-guide training courses are planned to be organized by the aspiring Geopark. The implementation
of these plans will be partlyfinanced by the SBR and partly as a result of cooperation between municipalities and
the proposed Geopark.
3. ANALYSIS OF GEOTOURISM POTENTIAL OF THE PROPOSED GEOPARK
Tourism is an important and growing economic sector in the Shouf-Jezzine Aspiring Geopark area, especially
during the summer for the Shouf that is covered in winter by the snow which allows skiing activities only and
during the summer and winter for the Jezzine area that is at altitudes around 1000 m asl. Several companies
offered various types of services for tourists, including discounts in hotels and motels of the proposed Geopark.
Festivals and events, including Cave Day organized by the speleology club in the area,are maximized during the
summer season by the local authorities and local communities.
The growth number of guesthouses each year and the increased demand for the ecological restaurant of Ammiq
constitute an indicator on the potential of the proposed Geopark for Geotourism. More over this restaurant
38
named “Tawlet of Ammiq” is operated by women using the local traditional recipes for catering some of the
Geopark events (conferences, meetings etc.). The management team of the Shouf-Jezzine Aspiring Geopark needs
to reduce the SBR deficit by putting in place a continuous, attractive, and varied program of income generating
activities all year round in both Shouf and Jezzine. The “Revised Business Plan” prepared by “Conseil et
Developpement” in January 2004 for the Shouf area revealed a “high cost of management in this particular
reserve” which led the management team to seek donations, sponsors, and other innovative income generating
activities”. The Government of Lebanon (represented by the Ministry of Environment - MOE) provides a base
annual funding amount of around US$ 43,000 (US$ 85,000 for two years). This contribution represents the
approximate financing of 32% of the total expenditures of the reserve. It appears that the rest must be secured
from other external sources such as donations, entrance fees, diversification of products and packages and other
tourism related services. The 90 meters Waterfall, 400 years Kanaan House, 50 stores of artifacts in Jezzine will
flourish once the Aspiring Geopark becomes a true Geopark. The whole Aspiring Geopark will have increased
number of tourists when the trails are completed and named according to their function (children/ adults,
cultural/geological, elderly/young, natural/educational, etc.).
4. OVERVIEW AND POLICIES FOR THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT:
The conservation of geological diversity, education, improvement of the quality of life economically and socially
and sustainable development through geotourism, are the major aims for the establishment of the Shouf-Jezzine
Geopark. The main preoccupation of the local authorities and communities as well as the managerial committee
of the Shouf Biosphere Reserve, which is making part of the proposed Geopark, are to maintain this natural,
cultural and geological heritage and to further take the right decisions as regards management and development
planning. The first priority in any development planning is favorable to the protection of sites with natural,
geological, archaeological and historic importance and value. All the measures and the conservation priorities for
the Shouf Biosphere Reserve (SBR) are studied in the framework of the outlines recently set for the Management
Plan of the Shouf-Jezzine Aspiring Geopark which is not yet complete as it will be completed after the declaration
of Shouf-Jezzine a Geopark. However, the 20 municipalities of the aspiring geopark share a bulk of tasks that are
completing each other. Each of these municipalities implement the part of the Shouf Biosphere Reserve’s
management plan that is falling under its capacities, and implement the agreed upon safe actions of the ShoufJezzine aspiring Geopark that is under development. For instance the Management Plan of SBR with its Business
and Ecotourism plans proves to be rather powerful tool in obtaining the sustainable development of natural
resources. The main identified policies of the Management Plan are:
1- A world class Geopark where natural, cultural and geological heritage are conserved, resources are
treated as wealth, investment receives due care, and development is controlled by citizens, businesses,
and the managing authority.
2- The natural, cultural and geological heritage of the Geopark is a unique capital that Lebanon must
conserve for the benefit of its own people, and
the global community. “Taking Care of the
Capital” policy will support the conservation and
restoration of biological diversity, ecological
integrity, and ecosystem services, and maintain
geosites, through high-profile, science-based
research and fieldwork.
3- The Management Team consists of the men and
women whose daily job is the custody of the
capital, and includes professionals and external
supporters involved in the management of the
Geopark. “Empowering the Management Team”
policy will enhance the effectiveness of the
Management Team by providing the facilities, Figure 46: Rock Hyrax in Niha Fortress
39
capacity, tools, and resources they need to perform a better job.
4- The Shareholders are the people who take advantage of the capital and whose livelihoods depend on its
integrity and productivity, and includes the inhabitants of the 20 villages located in the Geopark.
“Supporting the Shareholders” policy will support rural entrepreneurs and the weakest sectors of village
society (women, youth, unemployed) by boosting sustainable business practices and facilities that are
linked to tourism, agriculture, and traditional products.
5- The Shouf-Jezzine has the potential to become a world-class Geopark, but few people in Lebanon are fully
aware of all its treasures, and even fewer know it outside the country. “Putting the Shouf on the Global
Map” policy will boost the image of the Shouf-Jezzine Geopark at the national and global level and
position it as a leading destination for tourism, a showcase for nature conservation, a geological site of
high significance and an example of ecosystem-based adaptation to climate change in the region.
More specific policies for the Geotourism and economy adopted or under preparation action are: Geopark
established and designated; Geosites of interest are protected and maintained; Geosites and environmental
characteristics are monitored in term of pollution, impact of visitors and other human activities like quarries are
monitored; Geopark content database established based on research and scientific data found; Programs for
studies, conservation, restoration, maintenance, promotions and management funded; Communications with
partners and stakeholders strengthened; Geotourism developed; Financial management identified.
Specific policies for the geoeducation regarded or under preparation action are: Interpretation signs at the visitor
centers, entrances, guesthouses, ecolodges, along the geotrails and at resting corners designed and produced;
CDs, DVDs, Films, TV spots, brochures, leaflets, flyers, posters, website, newsletters, booklets and books and
souvenirs produced; Exhibitions, events, annual dinners, seminars conducted, educational programs ran or
applied.
Specific policies for geo-heritage adopted or under preparation action are: Geosites evaluated; Management
decisions based on scientific research favored, Scientific and Technical meeting organized; Networks and links
preferred for information sharing; Geosites maintained and protected.
5. POLICIES FOR, AND EXAMPLES OF, COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT (INVOLVEMENT AND CONSULTATION) IN THE PROPOSED
GEOPARK
Since the end of the civil war in early 1990’s, a big number of environmental NGO’s and civil organizations have
been established to enable citizens to have a growing role in shaping and improving their local urban and rural
areas. The Shouf-Jezzine Aspiring Geopark initiative is an excellent framework of re-activating communities and
enhancing their involvement in issues concerning their local heritage, economy and education within the SBR and
the Jezzine area. The Geopark initiative is suited to local needs with the help of community empowerment. The
Geopark covers 20 villages over an area of 195.63 km2. We believe that it is crucial to reach out to 20 communities
and cooperate with them in order to involve them in the management of the Geopark. The cooperation with the
local communities can be through the appointment of the management team from the local communities, holding
regular meetings of consultancy type with the civil society, establishment of women agrotouristic cooperatives to
promote community based products. All these are examples of empowering communities’ involvement. The
involvement of the communities in the Shouf-Jezzine Geopark planning activities is already ensured by the
cooperation with the Union of Municipalities which approved the policies of the Geopark as well as the decisions
regarding the Organization Structure. New Strategies and Actions of the future Management Plan and budget of
the Geopark will necessarily constitute another involvement, and subsequently empowerment of the local
communities within the Shouf-Jezzine Geopark. Distribution of tasks among the municipalities, establishment of
education centers, promotion of geotourism and setting of ecotourism strategy will all assist in communities’
participation and empowerment.
40
6. POLICIES FOR, AND EXAMPLES OF, PUBLIC AND STAKEHOLDER AWARENESS IN THE PROPOSED GEOPARK.
When the idea of having Shouf and Jezzine declared a Geopark has merged up, people from the civil society were
eager to join and play the role of geoguides. An agreement was then set to train the guides on the interpretation
of the geological sites but not before the identification of those sites and their value, a matter that requires
information or knowledge through research or compilation of data. However, the new acquired data can be used
for education, awareness and advocacy. This is true because the knowledge provided to students is called
education, to public is called awareness and to decision makers is called advocacy. Shouf-Jezzine is also working
on policies and evaluation of geotourism activities to raise awareness and link the geopark to others through
networking. The guides and the rangers/guides are concerned with several events within the proposed Geopark,
focusing on education and awareness through interpretation. The management team is planning to improve the
awareness of all stakeholders (employees, decision makers, civil organization, handicraftsmen, etc.). Tour
operators will be trained on interpreting the park and appreciating its values before convincing their clients, the
visitors on these values. As in Shouf, marketing will be given to partners from the local communities, especially
that such measures proved to be a sustainable way of operating the geopark’s products. The period of adventure
tours in the caves will be limited to protect bat colonies mating or wintering in the caves.
These measures are important tools of creating a community of people who care for the natural, cultural and
geological heritages. The sustainable management of natural, landscape and cultural heritage (e.g. the landscape
rehabilitation of illegal waste deposits and other sites related to quarrying activities) is also part of the above
mentioned spatial strategies. Closing of some caves in order to protect bat habitats and the landscape
rehabilitation of a disused quarry at Jezzine hills are excellent examples of the sustainable development of
geoheritage. The Strategy and Management Plan of the Shouf-Jezzine overviews and describes several tasks
concerning the sustainable development of the above mentioned fields in the Geopark. The awareness of public
and stakeholders of the geopark could be increased through lectures in municipalities, use of a new logo for the
geopark for events and promotional activities, networking with Global Geopark Network (GGN) after the ShoufJezzine is becoming member of this GGN. To the existing brochures, leaflets, posters, DVDs, websites, facebook on
the natural and cultural heritage of Shouf additional material will be produced to cover all aspects of the
geological heritage. Staff of Shouf-Jezzine training through participation in international symposia, conferences
and training meetings will improve the knowledge/awareness and attract the civil society and stakeholders,
including key persons, to be dedicated to conserve the geological heritage and maintain its geosites. The ShoufJezzine.
E – Interest and arguments for joining the GGN
The proposed Shouf-Jezzine Geopark is in need for an effective management of its important geosites and for
sustainable development through the development of geotourism as a tool for enhancing the value of the Earth
heritage, its landscapes and geological formations.
The Shouf Biosphere Reserve stated in its management plan and eco-tourism plan as well as business plan that
there is a need to search for additional natural resources, especially that the eco-tourism incomes requires
diversification of the market and products. The ecotourism of Shouf prospers in summer as the snow covers the
area in winter. Feasibility study showed it is better for Shouf to provide the visitors with more packages than
spending a fortune for skiing infrastructure. The south of Shouf and the Jezzine area are rich in geosites and
geological characteristics. Thus extending tourism to Jezzine is beneficial to Shouf and to Jezzine as well.
Subsequent to this, Jezzine will benefit from the advanced experience of Shouf because its staff will receive free
training during at least the first year. Both will have a wide spectrum of sites (natural, educational, cultural,
historical, geological and scientific [bird watching, butterfly identifying,…] to visit and to please and satisfy their
clients. Diversified package leads to pervading the culture of biodiversity and geodiversity conservation. This high
level of geodiversity in Shouf-Jezzine, compared to other areas of Lebanon, provides good reasons for the
establishment of the Geopark. But these reasons will not be enough without combining biotic and cultural
41
heritage and vitalizing local economy. Hopefully that members of the Shouf Association that is managing the
Shouf Biosphere Reserve are geologists, speleologists, hydrologists, archaeologists, and of course mammalogists,
botanists, ornithologists, herpetologists, etc. As mentioned above, the Shouf-Jezzine aspiring Geopark has the
capabilities to conduct progressively improved geotours with the local communities and to train Tour operators
and guides on the interpretation of the natural and geological heritages. The existing visitors’ centers and the
planned ones will emphasize the knowledge and the interpretation. Each of the 20 villages has a summer festival.
These villages already agreed to schedule their festival programs in a way that they don’t overlap as part of a
strategy aiming at widening the range of services to visitors and at enriching their experience through visiting
geological, historical, cultural and natural sites at day time and benefiting from high quality entertainment
programs in the evenings.
The Shouf Biosphere Reserve already involved its southern area that lies mainly in the transition zone, in ecotourism and named its geological sites and geomorphological sites as natural monuments. Subsequently, the
Shouf has a strong experience to share with Jezzine region in geotour guiding and in planning for the preservation
of geological heritage, improving sustainable development and promoting geotourism.
The designation of Shouf-Jezzine as a Geopark on the Global network is a great opportunity in Lebanon to
popularize and increase geological knowledge, educating and stimulating the younger generations towards
understanding the history of the earth and their history on the earth, and finally to create new job opportunities
for local communities.
The Shouf-Jezzine Geopark merits recognition as GGN member as this will:
1) Provide the essential motivation for promoting sustainable local development for the benefit of
the local society, through preserving geological heritage for present and future generation.
2) Establish a platform of cooperation and exchange of experience between experts and
practitioners in geological patrimony matters
3) Ensure worldwide recognition and benefit through the exchange of knowledge and expertise,
experience and staff between other Geoparks.
4) Contribute to bringing together groups that share common values, interests, or backgrounds, to
develop a specific methodology and management practices.
5) Stimulate research
6) Contribute actively to the life of the Network through joint collaborative initiatives.
7) Contribute articles to the GGN Newsletters, books and other publications.
8) Provide UNESCO umbrella to increase partnership with private sector, raise interest of
government in the effort of geosites protection
42
REFERENCES
1. Ambraseys, N. &Barazangi, M., 1989. The 1759 Large Earthquake In The Bekaa Valley: Implications For
Earthquake Hazard Assessment In Lebanon And Syria. Journal Of Geophysical Research, 94: 4007-4013.
2. Beydoun, Z., 1977. The Levantine Countries: The Geology Of Syria And Lebanon (Maritime Regions). the
Levantine Countries: The Geology Of Syria And Lebanon (Maritime Regions). In: A.E.M. Nairn, W.H. Kanes
And F.G. Stehli (Eds), The Ocean Basins And Margins, The Eastern Mediterranean, Plenum Press, 319-353.
79 Gregor, C.B., Mertzman, S., A.E.M. &Negendank Nairn, J., 1974. The Paleomagnetism Of Some
Mesozoic And Cenozoic Volcanic Rocks From The Lebanon. Tectonophysics, 21: 375-395
3. Guidelines and Criteria for National Geoparks seeking UNESCO's assistance to join the Global Geoparks
Network (GGN) (April 2010).
4. Khair, K., Aker, N. & Zahruddinne, K., 1992. Hydrogeologic Units Of Lebanon. Applied Hydrogeology, 1: 3449.
5. Khair, K., 1992. A Review Of Geophysical Data In Lebanon And Their Significance To The Levantine Plate
Structure. Geology Of The Arab World, 1: 231-?
6. Khawlie, M.R., 1992. Shaping The Eastern Mediterranean Coast By Earthquakes: Lebanon. Geology Today,
: 58-61.
7. Mouty, M., Delaloye, M., Fontignie, D., Piskin, O. & Wagner, J.-J., 1992. The Volcanic Activity In Syria And
Lebanon Between Jurassic And Actual. Schweiz. Mineral. Petrogr. Mitt., 72: 91-105.
8. Saint-Marc, P., 1981. Lebanon. lebanon. In: (Eds), Aspects Of Mid-Cretaceous Regional Geology, 103-131.
9. Walley, C., 1998. The Geology of Lebanon. Report, A. U. B. March 1998.
10. AbuIzzeddine, F. 2012. Shouf Biosphere Reserve Management Plan ( 2013-2017).
11. Hani N., Khalil W., 2014. Shouf Biosphere Reserve Field guide and Information Booklet.
12. Yezbeck C. 2011 Shouf Biosphere Reserve - Cedars and Faces.
13. AbuIzzeddine, F. 2013. Shouf Biosphere Reserve MEMOIRS OF A CEDAR A history of deforestation – A
future of conservation.
Annexes
Annex 1: Self-Assessment
Annex 2: Summary of Geological Heritage
Annex 3: Letter of support from the relevant governmental authorities
Annex 4: 1:50,000 Scale map of the proposed Geoapark
Annex 5: SBR management plan (2013-2017)
Annex 6: Marketing and Business plan for the SBR rural products
Annex 7: SBR Eco-tourism strategy
43

Document - Shouf Biosphere Reserve

Transcription

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