Monday 17 / March / 2025
Barka: The Biodiversity Centre in the Wilayat of Barka is one of the main environment projects in the Sultanate of Oman that contributes to preserving the endangered species.
The centre was established within the framework of the efforts of the Sultanate aimed to achieve sustainable development and protection of environment heritage.
Salim Said Al Maskari, Director of Environment Department in South Al Batinah Governorate said that the centre represents an integrated platform for rescue and protection of biodiversity.
The centre offers healthcare in the field of wildlife with the focus on protection of endangered species, he said, adding that the centre contributes to the support of knowledge and expertise related to management of wildlife.
He said that the total area of the centre is 33, 000 sq. metres and offers an integrated environment accommodating areas designated for protection of animals and plants besides areas for the facilities including a well-equipped veterinary clinic, equipment for treatment of animals and cages for isolation of animals whenever necessary.
Since its establishment, the centre has succeeded in breeding a group of wild animals such as the Arabian gazelle, the oryx, and the sand gazelle, in addition to rehabilitating various types of birds of prey, including the Egyptian vulture, the bald eagle, and falcons.
He pointed out that the centre also includes a nursery for Omani wild plants, as it produces approximately 8,000 seedlings annually of local plants, such as samr, sidr, wild ghaf, shoa, and markh.
This nursery plays an important role in the national initiative to distribute ten million seedlings of Omani wild trees, which is supervised by the Environment Authority, thus contributing to strengthening the vegetation cover and preserving local plants.
It's worth noting that the Barka Biodiversity Centre is a pioneering model of the Sultanate of Oman's efforts to protect the environment and conserve its natural resources.
Through a clear vision and specific objectives, the centre contributes to achieving sustainable development and preserving wildlife for future generations. This reflects the Sultanate of Oman's unwavering commitment to protecting its natural heritage and strengthening its position as a pioneering country in the field of biodiversity conservation.
