Muscat – The Environment Authority, through the Directorate General for Nature Conservation, has planted two million mangrove seeds in the governorates of North Batinah, South Sharqiyah, and Al Wusta.

The initiative began on July 24 following a robust seed collection campaign in Muscat’s Qurum Natural Reserve.

This plantation drive aligns with the Environment Authority’s ambitious plan to plant 10mn indigenous trees over the next decade, underlining the commitment to bolster the coastal wetlands’ ecosystems and achieve national conservation objectives.

Badr bin Saif al Busaidi, overseeing the Wetlands Management Department at the Environment Authority, elaborated on the campaign’s bifurcated approach.

“The initial 14-day phase was dedicated to seed collection from the Qurum Natural Reserve,” he said.

To maintain their viability, these seeds – stored at temperatures between 23 to 26 degrees Celsius – were transported using specialised methods.

The subsequent phase targeted four distinct sites, covering roughly 900,000 square metres for plantation, Busaidi said, giving further details.

“Given the areas’ tidal variations, planting was meticulously scheduled during low tide periods,” he explained.

Preliminary field readings and soil test reports have been encouraging. They show the mangroves’ potential to thrive in these new locations, notably Khor al Har in South Sharqiyah, Khor Ghawi and Qaisad in Al Wusta, and Khor Shinas in North Batinah.

Highlighting the significance of mangroves, Busaidi said, “Mangroves play a pivotal role in counteracting climate change, given their capacity to sequester greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide.”

They also act as natural shields against storms and floods, bolster fish populations, and serve as breeding grounds for myriad marine species.

Beyond ecological advantages, mangroves enhance regional biodiversity, providing essential habitats for seabirds and supporting a diverse range of marine life.

“These forests are not just vital ecological assets but also potential hubs for eco-tourism, thereby contributing to the national economy,” he added.