A Rocha Lebanon (ARL) is part of A Rocha International, a worldwide interdenominational Christian environmental non-profit organization. ARL was started in 1996, by Chris and Suzanne Naylor, and its initial focus was to help preserve the Ammiq wetlands from destruction. Ammiq is the largest remaining freshwater wetland in the Bekaa valley in Lebanon and was designated an important area for migrato
ry birds in 1994. Following more than a decade of work, in partnership with others, the reduction of its habitats was reversed, and it is now a designated Ramsar site. During this period, we undertook considerable scientific research on the wildlife of Lebanon, especially birds and those species connected with the Ammiq wetland. Environmental education with schools and other community groups also played an important part of our work along with engaging with churches to look at how our Christian faith affects our understanding of God’s creation. More recently we have worked in partnership with Qab Elias municipality to help regenerate a barren area of land to provide new habitats for wildlife and an education resource for local schools. Currently (2021) we are working on:
• A community-based conservation project in partnership with Mekse Municipality in the West Bekaa to restore 3.5 hectares of land to create a Nature Park where diverse habitats for wildlife can thrive and as a pleasant place for the community to visit.
• Environmental education – once the Nature Park is complete, local schools will be able to use resources at the new park for a wide range of curricula activities.
• In partnership with the Middle East Council of Churches and other partners we have formed a Steering Committee to promote the Season of Creation an annual ecumenical event held from 1 September to 4 October. In October 2020, Colin Gibson was appointed the new National Director of A Rocha Lebanon and his wife Audrey Gibson was appointed as Education and Church Liaison Officer.
