Riyadh: The National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification (NCVC) has completed a study titled. 'Forest Fire Prevention and Post-Fire Recovery in the Southern and Southwestern Regions of Saudi Arabia' in collaboration with King Khalid University and Monash University (Australia), as part of its commitment to strengthening forest protection and mitigating wildfire risks, in line with environmental sustainability goals.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the study includes a comprehensive assessment of forest conditions and associated risk factors, the creation of a digital database, and a detailed examination of preventive measures and community behaviors. It further proposes an integrated response plan involving relevant entities with clearly defined roles and the use of modern technologies such as early warning systems and drones.
Additionally, the study provides field designs and sustainable alternatives for establishing strategic firebreaks, a post-fire rehabilitation guide, a performance evaluation tool, and a framework for a joint operations center. It also emphasizes the activation of community and volunteer teams in fire prevention and response.
To complement these efforts, the study gives special attention to community engagement by developing a comprehensive mechanism that enables local volunteer teams in forest areas to play an active role in prevention and response through training, capacity-building, and coordination with official agencies.
This study, said the release, serves as a model of institutional, technical, and community integration in the field of forest development and protection. It reaffirms the Kingdom's commitment to preserving natural resources and addressing the challenges of climate change, reflecting a strategic vision that balances development with the preservation of ecosystems.
The NCVC continues to promote sustainable vegetation cover in forests and has launched an initiative to grow 60 million trees, equivalent to rehabilitating 300,000 hectares by 2030. It also operates under the Executive Regulation for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification, particularly Article 6 on Forest Guidelines, which aims to develop and implement a national plan for sustainable forest management, ensure protection and development, and regulate grazing in forested areas.