Riyadh: The National Center for Wildlife (NCW), in collaboration with the Riyadh Region Municipality, inaugurated the first supervisory council for the Ibex protected area encompassing the governorates of Howtat Bani Tamim and Al-Hariq. The pivotal step is part of NCW’s commitment to involve local communities and relevant stakeholders to enhance management practices within the protected area, aligning them with global standards, NCW said in news release.
NCW chief executive Dr. Mohammed Qurban highlighted the importance of the initiative. “Establishing the council empowers our neighboring community to contribute ideas and suggestions towards enhancing protection programs and conserving biodiversity within the protected area,” he said. “Engaging with the community promotes operational excellence, governance, and efficiency, ensuring the sustainable use of our natural resources. This connection is integral, holding profound value across generations, bolstering conservation efforts, and nurturing environmental
awareness among local residents.”
Global best practices advocate for local participation to safeguard and preserve natural resources within protected areas, fostering sustainable resource management while strengthening community attachment to these landscapes. International experiences demonstrate that involving local communities in protected area management yields positive outcomes, enhancing ecotourism initiatives, restoring native species to their habitats, and stimulating economic growth by creating employment opportunities.
Located approximately 120 kilometers south of Riyadh, the Ibex protected area is an extension of the Tuwaiq mountains, covering approximately 1,841 square kilometers. It boasts diverse geographical features including valleys, rock formations, plateaus, slopes, and rocky cliffs, providing rich grazing grounds that support myriad wildlife. Over time, it has evolved into a sanctuary for various mammals such as the Arabian oryx, Arabian wolf, and rock hyrax, alongside diverse bird speci
es including the lappet-faced vulture, bustards, and eagles. The area also hosts numerous reptiles, amphibians, and snakes.
The protected area is renowned for its diverse plant life, including herbs, acacia, Vachellia flava, Christ’s thorn jujube, and Haloxylon ammodendron trees, vital for beekeeping and the production of premium-quality honey.
NCW initiated several programs within the Ibex protected area, including camping, hiking trails, and beekeeping, to promote ecotourism and support economic activities for the local community, highlighting its unique natural and cultural heritage.
Source: Saudi Press Agency