Forest Fires in Ajloun: From Disaster to a Green Renaissance

By Journalist Razan Al-Momani

Ajloun Governorate faces annual threats to its forest wealth, whether from illegal logging or natural and man-made fires, which are considered the most dangerous and destructive. These fires intensify during summer, coinciding with high temperatures and the proliferation of dry grass, which accelerates ignition and allows fires to spread over large areas.

This situation places the governorate at escalating risk of desertification and loss of green cover, threatening natural habitats and local species. The problem is exacerbated by shrinking agricultural lands due to urban expansion, climate change, drought, low rainfall, and reliance on firewood for heating, making forest resources targets for profitable trade.

Studies indicate that Ajloun, with forests covering approximately 140,000 dunams, is among the most fire-prone areas in Jordan. These fires reduce vegetation cover, negatively affecting biodiversity and natural resources. For example, reports show that a fire in June in the Safsafa area destroyed large areas of forest trees and local plants, threatening the sustainability of the ecosystem.

Additionally, a case study of the reserve indicated that human activities, such as uncontrolled grazing and urban expansion, increase fire risks and degrade natural environments. The study recommended imposing restrictions on these activities and enhancing community engagement in reserve protection.

Ajloun Agriculture and Forest Protection Initiatives

Ramzi Al-Adwan, Director of Agriculture in Ajloun, emphasized that public awareness of the forest’s importance is fundamental to preserving it and transforming it into a sustainable developmental resource. He added that community recognition of forest value fosters a sense of belonging and creates employment opportunities for youth and women, particularly amid high poverty and unemployment, as rural forestry projects open new avenues for economic empowerment.

Al-Adwan confirmed that legal action is applied against offenders in coordination with the Environmental Police and judicial authorities, alongside granting cooperative associations productive projects to utilize forests sustainably. This has strengthened residents’ connection to forests and motivated them to participate in protection efforts and awareness campaigns.

Environmental Recovery and Reforestation

Al-Adwan noted that the directorate follows a natural approach to ecological recovery post-fires, allowing resilient plant species to regenerate naturally. Fires can sometimes stimulate soil enrichment and vegetation renewal. The directorate conducts annual reforestation programs in cooperation with local and international organizations, having planted approximately 100,000 forest trees in Kafr Nja and Rajib, achieving promising success rates.

Ajloun Forest Reserve Director, Oday Al-Qudah, reported that the reserve has not experienced major fires in the past two years, with the last recorded fire occurring about three years ago, affecting only 200–250 square meters per incident. He stressed that even limited fires impact biodiversity, reduce green areas, and sometimes allow invasive species to dominate affected areas, slowing ecosystem recovery.

Al-Qudah explained the preventive measures followed by the reserve, including regulated grazing, firebreak lines, and effective firefighting plans, with trained teams for rapid and safe extinguishing. Continuous reforestation programs plant local species, such as evergreen oak, with community participation from schools and associations, employing advanced techniques like the “cocoon” method to retain water and enhance natural regeneration.

Agricultural and Research Impact

Dr. Ibrahim Al-Tahat, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture at Ajloun National University, highlighted that fires affect soil fertility, nutrients, and microbial content, reducing water retention and limiting the potential for natural replanting. Restoring damaged lands requires innovative solutions, such as organic fertilizers, drought-resistant local plants, and agroforestry techniques to enhance biodiversity.

Al-Tahat added that the university prepares applied field studies and research, allowing students and graduates to gain practical experience and green job opportunities. He also noted the “Ajloun: Jordan’s Oxygen” initiative to preserve forests and promote the area as a natural and tourist destination, providing training and employment in sustainable agriculture and environmental guidance.

Civil Society Contribution

Ali Azbi Freihat, Chairman of the Jordanian Environment Association, confirmed that recent fires caused significant damage to vegetation, wildlife, and soil, negatively impacting biodiversity and water sources. He noted that the association implements programs for forest rehabilitation, planting drought-resistant trees, protecting burned areas, and organizing community awareness campaigns. The “Leave Your Mark” initiative promotes green growth and eco-tourism, advocating sustainable practices such as agroforestry and rainwater harvesting to strengthen the local economy and create green jobs.