Rafha, A significant growth of plants and trees has been seen in the Northern Borders Region following the revitalization of royal nature reserves, protection of vegetation cover, and implementation of regulations, actions taken to prevent overgrazing, safeguard the vegetation cover, conserve natural national riches, and promote environmental awareness and responsibility among the community. Awareness campaigns, community initiatives, and other efforts are contributing to this progress.

The Saudi Press Agency has documented the growth and reappearance of different shrubs and plants in the region, specifically within the Imam Turki Bin Abdullah Royal Nature Reserve and several other locations. These plants were at risk of extinction before the reserves were restored. The revived flora includes the plants like arfaj (Rhanterium epapposum), aheen (Teucrium oliverianum), sabt (Cenchrus ciliaris), arta (Calligonum comosum), aather (Artemisia monosperma), and many other tree and plant species.

Talking to SPA, Abd
ullah Al-Barak, an expert on Arabian Peninsula flora, acknowledged the remarkable comeback of many plants and trees, though not yet in their former abundance, attributing the ongoing recovery partly to the recent rainy seasons. While plants like aather are flourishing, the return of arta and arfaj trees is more gradual. However, there are “promising signs of their multiplication”, he said.

Al-Barak emphasized the importance of strategic reforestation. He suggested scattering seeds from native plant species in suitable locations after careful study. He also highlighted the need for historical data on plant populations, to determine if further planting efforts are necessary. This comparison will guide restoration efforts.

There is even a glimmer of hope for critically endangered plants. Samples of these rare species were preserved in private reserves. Al-Barak believes these plants can eventually be reintroduced in their natural habitats within the protected areas.

Source: Saudi Press Agency