الواجهة العربية
WELCOME TO JABBUL AGROECOSYSTEM WEBSITE (JAES)!
This is probably the first electronic page dedicated to wetland management in Syria. Therefore we hope this website can respond to as many questions raised about the wetlands in general, and more specifically on Jabbul Agroeco system.
JAES STEERING COMMITTEE
What is Sabkhat Al Jabbul? Sabkhat al Jabbul is a large wetland with saline and brackish waters. Sabkha’s are typical for dry areas, where the water flow can not reach the sea, and accumulate in a depression. The water is saline, and the surface water dries up during summer seasons. As the wetland and the surrounding communities interact in several ways, the whole is called ‘Jabbul Agro-ecosystem’. Where is the Sabkha located? Sabkhat Al-Jabbul lies 40 – 80 km South-East of Aleppo city, the second city of Syria. Google Maps link |  |
Why is the Sabkha so important to us? The Sabkha has a rich fauna and flora biodiversity and is a strategic staging and wintering area for 10,000’s of water birds, including Greater Flamingo, ducks, geese, waders, herons, terns and raptors (several of them are near extinct). It is the most important national wetland in Syria, and is recognized as a Wetland of International Importance (or ‘Ramsar site’).
The Sabkha natural resources are a socio-economic asset to Syria. The 27 villages that live around the wetland make use of the eco-system resources and have a unique culture. Farming, animal production, salt mining, fishing and handcrafts are practiced by the local communities.
What are the threats for the Sabkha?
During the last decades, the Sabkha ecosystem is affected by the accumulation of polluted water and air, from industrial activities, urban development, and agriculture is threatening human and ecosystem health. Biodiversity is also suffering from uncontrolled hunting, fishing, and grazing. Poverty and limited infrastructure is leading to short-term exploitation of natural resources, and out-migration of the young generation.
What is being done about it?
The Governorate of Aleppo is collaborating with all concerned Ministries, research organisations, NGO’s and the local communities to develop a strategy and action plan that combine wildlife conservation, cautious use of natural resources, and sustainable economic development.
Research agencies are assisting in the development of strategies to control pollution, sustainable water and land management practices, environmental-friendly sources of income generation, and conservation interventions.
How can I help the Sabkha?
Respect the Sabkha environment by keeping the water, air and soil clean from wastes.
Respect the Sabkha by protecting its birds, fish and plants from unsustainable practices.
Visit the Sabkha in a respectful way, such as walking, photography, bird-watching and enjoying traditional meals of the local communities.
Respect the local traditions and cultural values, and buy locally-made products.
Participate in environmental education and awareness activities and campaigns.
