Bio-diversity

Anjara Women Cooperative will implement the Conservation of Historical Olive Trees in Ajloun Governorate . Olive trees are among the oldest known trees in Jordan. They go back in history to the Roman times, as is evident through the ancient olive pressers scattered in the different parts of the country. Throughout history, olive trees have been the most adaptable tree species to Jordan s environment, soil and climate. This is well manifested in the large numbers of old olive trees and their outstanding resistance to pests and diseases. Although new and different species of olive trees were introduced to Jordan along the past years, indigenous species still prove to be more resistant and adaptable. However, those trees, especially in Ajloun governorate, are currently facing threats of extinction, with many factors leading to decreasing their numbers, including neglect, cutting down for sale as decorative garden plants, or to be replaced by other types of trees. Losing historical or Roman olive trees, as referred to by the community, is not just losing the origins of an indigenous old tree but is also a loss of history and heritage. Through the project, the Anjara Women Cooperative will undertake activities that would protect the trees in question, in cooperation with the Agro-biodiversity Project implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture/ National Center for Agricultural Research and Technology Transfer. Providing extension services and materials needed to care for the trees, conducting local and national awareness campaigns and efforts to enforce the laws to protect old olive trees are the focus of this project.

Jordan