Amid the arid hills, lies a patch of lush green with an entrance decorated with old acacia trees that provide cooling shade. Home for many specious including the Yellow Vented Bulbul, nomadic in their behavior as they travel from one branch to the next, chirping beautiful melodies, as such, is the beauty of nature that welcomes the visitors in Sharhabil bin Hassneh EcoPark.
Located in the northern parts of Jordan, the SHE Ecopark entertains many visitors throughout the year, the latest were a group from Olive Tree Initiative who arrived on the 21st of August, 2013. Walking the trails of the park, the group developed awareness to the importance of the park as a pilot project intended to raise awareness with regards to various issues including shared water and environmental concerns, promoting regional cooperation to solve rising environmental concern, encouraging local eco-tourism and most importantly, providing a home for the ecological habitats that are endangered.
The group, who is oriented towards a pragmatic approach to conflict analysis and resolution, were introduced to some of the many features and main attractions provided by the Ecopark. The visitors were introduced to water conserving methods used at the park, they were informed about the wetlands used as a tool to clean waste water and use it later for nature, in addition to the Geodome that was getting slowly covered with plants to provide a shady haven for trekkers. They later regrouped and engaged in a session presented by Mr., Abdul Rahman Sultan; Ecopark manager, whereby he elaborated on the environmental situation affecting the region and its political repercussions.
The group concluded their visit with a taste from the Jordanian cuisine cooked to please the pickiest eaters. The hors d’oeuvres composed of succulent chickens surrounded by traditional salads made from local Jordanian herbs like Verdolaga. They later, bid their farewells and parted with the park after an eventful day.
This post is contributed by Samar M. Salma, FoEME’s Media Officer & Project Coordinator.