A Rocha Lebanon HDTV Channels

Spring 2010

After a very dry and mild winter (it only rained a few times and finally snowed in late February), the wetland was filled very quickly thanks to a couple of late winter storms. Thankfully it was cold enough for it to snow at the higher elevations (above 1500 m) which is what really matters as it fills the aquifers in the mountains. While most people here nag and complain when it snows or when cold, we at A Rocha Lebanon actually pray for them both and give great thanks when it does happen. So yes, snow is extremely important for the wetland’s survival, but what most don’t realize is that it is equally crucial for their country’s survival! Without snow, there will be tremendous shortages in water for agriculture, spring water (drinking water) and everything else. So pray for it guys!

Spring is the most exciting time of the year as the wetland really comes alive in a vibrant display of colours which is therapeutic. The lush green scenery will totally refresh you! Not to mention the thousands of migratory birds that pass over the wetland every season.

Glory be to God for his incredible creation! Enjoy...

Channel 1

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Channel 2

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Channel 3

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Channel 4

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Channel 5

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Channel 6

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Channel 7

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Channel 8

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Channel 9

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Summer 2010

The summer was an abnormally hot one! One of the hottest every recorded in Lebanon. We had a couple of heat waves in both July and August which seemed like they would never end. Temperatures peaked at almost 50 C in the Beqaa region. The good thing was that the wetland was well prepared for the drought as it had plenty of water to spare. This was thanks to a couple of strong storms in the springtime (not winter!). A marvellous sight to look at during the hot desert like days when everything else is so dry!

Channel 1

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Channel 2

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Channel 3

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Channel 4

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Channel 5

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Channel 6

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Channel 7

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Channel 8

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Fall 2010

These pictures were taken in the beginning of the season. Although the wetland is naturally drying out and dividing into smaller pools, it is still very beautiful in its own way and very interesting to visit. It is normal for this type of wetland (Temporary Mediterranean Wetland) to dry out in this time (not earlier) but not completely. It is important that a few small pools remain at least so that the biodiversity is not negatively affected. When this happens, biodiversity is actually enhanced and greater than that of a full-time wetland.