A'sharqiyah: A three-day environmental symposium to discuss the management plan for the "Ghaf Trees Reserve" commenced today in the Wilayat of Al Kamil W'al Wafi, South A'Sharqiyah Governorate.

According to Oman News Agency, the event is organized by the Environment Department in the governorate in cooperation with the Directorate General of Biodiversity and Natural Reserves at the Environment Authority and the Environmental Center in Al Kamil W'al Wafi.

The opening of the symposium was held under the auspices of Dr. Yahya Badr Al Maawali, Governor of South A'Sharqiyah, in the presence of Dr. Abdullah Ali Al Amri, Chairman of the Environment Authority.

The Ghaf Trees Reserve is regarded as an environmental model requiring conscious and sustainable management to ensure the preservation of its natural resources for future generations while enhancing their utilization. Eng. Zahran Ahmed Al Abdulsalam, Director General of Biodiversity and Natural Reserves at the Environment Authority, delivered a speech explaining that Ghaf trees are components of the natural environment due to their role in maintaining ecological balance. He noted that these trees contribute to soil stabilization, combat desertification, and provide natural habitats for organisms, in addition to their cultural and heritage value linked to human life in arid environments throughout history.

He added that the symposium aims to gather expertise and unify efforts to produce a comprehensive scientific management plan based on analysis of the current situation. This plan will identify protection priorities and establish frameworks for managing natural resources, while emphasizing the importance of involving the local community as a partner in protection and sustainability efforts.

The symposium's proceedings included an introductory session on the Ghaf Trees Reserve, its environmental importance, and an overview of its geographical location and strategic objectives. The session also addressed the plant and animal biodiversity within the reserve, the framework of the management plan for the natural reserve, and the mechanism for its implementation.