Protected REEF

The Shouf Biospher Reserve (SBR) is the largest of Lebanon nature reserves, Al-Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve stretches from Dahr Al-Baidar in the north to Niha Mountain in the south.The reserves most famous attractions are its three magnificent cedar forests. The SBR works on several development projects including, supporting local communities by providing training and marketing outlets for their food products, development of eco-tourism models for the SBR and conservation of agro-silvo-pastoral systems and traditional practices.

Jabal Moussa Biosphere Reserve (JMBR) is located in Kesrouan District, Lebanon; its main villages are: Yahchouch, Qehmez, Jouret el Thermos, Nahr ed Dahab, Ghbale, Aabri, and Chouwan. The JMBR addresses human livelihood improvement and nature conservation through combining natural sciences with social sciences, economics and education. the Biosphere reserve focuses its work for the support of local communities by creating a food product line prepared by locals within the villages part of the JMBR, creating income generating opportunities such as the establishment of a local kitchen, developing eco-tourism activities and leveraging local skills.

Bentael Nature Rserve is located in the hills to the east of the town of Jbail, north of Beirut. The areas is mostly covered with dense woodland, with a low level of agriculture and some grazing. The Reserve provides an important educational space for schools and local communities and is considered as an ecotourism destination. The protected site plays a key role in maintaining its ecological identity, its richness in biodiversity and its historical, cultural and religious heritage values. In addition, the reserve includes the Green Sheel Restaurant a healthy food snack and a picnic area. Through this project, a selected groupe of local youth and women have received trainings on food safety, hospitality and management which has contributed to the sustainable management of local rural tourism businesses while providing marketing and promotions for local products.