Agriculture Ministry and Qobayat Municipality sign agreement
Agriculture Minister Dr. Nizar Hani received a delegation from Qobayat Municipality, headed by Deputy Mayor Dr. Mirna Karam, in the presence of MP Jimmy Jabbour, to discuss cooperation on forest protection and sustainable management.
The Ministry of Agriculture announced a memorandum of understanding with the municipality, represented by Mayor Michel Abdo Abdo, establishing a framework for managing Qobayat Forest, reducing wildfire risks, preserving biodiversity and ensuring natural regeneration.
The agreement outlines a phased management plan involving selective pruning, thinning, clearing dry branches and removing forest debris under the ministry’s technical supervision.
Municipal workers will implement the measures after obtaining the necessary permits, while the relevant forestry center will monitor compliance with environmental and technical requirements. Each phase will require ministry approval before subsequent work begins.
The agreement prohibits indiscriminate tree cutting, construction of new roads, burning of debris and charcoal production within the designated work area. It also regulates the handling of collected firewood in accordance with legal requirements.
The ministry emphasized that the initiative establishes a model for cooperation between central and local authorities, strengthening municipal capacity to prevent wildfires, protect forest ecosystems and preserve Lebanon’s natural heritage for future generations.
