NCVC Conducts Invasive Plant Survey on Farasan Island

Jazan: The National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification (NCVC) conducted a field survey of invasive plant species on Farasan Island in Jazan as part of its “Study and Assessment of Invasive Plants in Saudi Arabia” project.

According to Saudi Press Agency, Farasan Island is one of 10 survey points identified in the region as part of a more extensive study covering 1,000 sites in 13 provinces across the Kingdom. The locations were selected using remote sensing and geographic information systems (GIS) along with climate, topography, and vegetation data to target areas most likely to see the spread of invasive species.

The project aims to preserve the Kingdom’s natural ecological balance by protecting native plants and controlling the spread of invasive species through sustainable management programs. A team of experts in the field will lead the initiative, which involves developing integrated plans for monitoring, evaluating, and managing invasive plants.

The study forms part of the “Drought Preparedness and Mitigation” initiative under the National Transformation Program. It contributes to assessing desertification risks, identifying areas vulnerable to sand encroachment and drought, and establishing strategies to curb invasive plant spread in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

The project’s future phases will include evaluating invasive species’ environmental, economic, and social impacts; assessing institutional readiness to manage them; and developing a roadmap for controlling their spread.

The NCVC continues to lead efforts to protect and restore vegetation sites across the Kingdom, manage rangelands, regulate grazing, and safeguard forests and national parks. Through its various projects, the center supports global efforts to combat climate change, reduce carbon emissions, and promote sustainable environmental and economic development as part of the Saudi Green Initiative.

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