Saudi Arabia wildfire study proposes forest protection measures
Iain Hoey
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NCVC study assesses wildfire risks and response options
The National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification (NCVC) has published a wildfire study focusing on southern and southwestern Saudi Arabia.
According to NCVC, the study outlines current forest conditions, examines wildfire risks and recommends mitigation measures.
The study was developed with King Khalid University and Monash University, Australia.
NCVC reported that it includes the creation of a digital database, preventive strategies, and analysis of contributing community behaviours.
Use of early warning systems and drones proposed
NCVC explained that the study proposes the use of early warning systems, remote sensing and drones as part of an integrated prevention and response strategy.
The study recommends establishing clearly defined roles for official agencies, alongside a joint operations centre to coordinate response.
The organisation stated that these measures aim to improve wildfire detection and containment while supporting ecosystem protection efforts.
New framework for firebreaks and post-fire recovery
The centre confirmed that the study includes guidance for post-fire land rehabilitation, tools to evaluate response performance, and technical field designs for firebreaks.
It stated that these proposed designs use sustainable alternatives suited to Saudi Arabia’s forest environments.
A key recommendation is the development of a national guide for restoring affected areas after wildfire events.
Community volunteers to support wildfire prevention
The NCVC stated that the study includes a mechanism to engage community and volunteer teams in wildfire prevention.
This includes training, capacity-building, and integration with official response operations.
It noted that involving local residents is seen as critical to strengthening protection and early intervention capacity in forested areas.
National forest strategy and tree planting initiative
NCVC confirmed that the study forms part of broader national efforts aligned with Article 6 of the Executive Regulation for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification.
The organisation said this includes developing a sustainable forest management plan and regulating grazing in forest areas.
It added that the centre has launched a programme to grow 60 million trees and rehabilitate 300,000 hectares by 2030.
Saudi Arabia wildfire study proposes forest protection measures: Summary
The National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification has completed a wildfire study in southern and southwestern Saudi Arabia.
The study was conducted with King Khalid University and Monash University.
It includes an assessment of forest conditions and fire risk factors.
It proposes preventive measures including early warning systems and drone technology.
A digital database and integrated response plan have been developed.
The plan outlines roles for official agencies and recommends a joint operations centre.
Field designs for firebreaks and a recovery guide are included.
A performance evaluation tool and community engagement strategy are proposed.
The study includes a volunteer training and coordination mechanism.
The NCVC said the study supports its broader forest protection goals.
The centre aims to plant 60 million trees and rehabilitate 300,000 hectares by 2030.
It works under Article 6 of the Executive Regulation for forest development.
This includes managing grazing and implementing a national forest strategy.