Uploaded on 2019-11-25 by Isbael Raad

Provisioning services: The Shouf Reserve provides a great source of wood that is highly used as a local and sustainable construction material but also fuel source. It also provided non wood-products such as authentic aromatic and medicinal plants in addition to rural products, mostly Honey, Oregano and Pine Nuts. Another important is water production as the reserve is characterized as region-wide water capture and recharge zone. Regulating services: Carbon sequestration enhancing greatly local climate and also improving air quality by removing pollutants from the atmosphere in addition to the presence of freshwater flows and forested watersheds which are essential for sustaining freshwater supply, protection against flooding mainly in winter, soil and biodiversity protection. The Reserve is many habitat from which many are threatened/rare species in the region. It is foremost the habitat of the Cedar, a conifer, and the symbol of Lebanon and the Reserve form the last natural limits to the spread of Cedra (Cedrus libani) on the planet. Cultural services:The Reserve is a recreation place for nearby residents enhancing their physical and mental well-being. The Reserve is also a major touristic attraction organized around eco-tourism. Not to mention the patrimonial value of the iconic cedar tree.