Department of Rangeland and Forestry

Word Of the Head Department of Rangeland and Forestry

Libya has a large area estimated at about 1,760,000 million square kilometers, with diverse terrain, different geological formations, different climates from one region to another, and varying natural ecosystems, and thus a great diversity of natural vegetation, as pastures constitute an area of ​​14,570 million hectares, while forests cover an area estimated at about 547,000 hectares. Pastures and forests play an important environmental role by preserving soil from erosion and reducing surface runoff of rainwater, which increases water infiltration to replenish groundwater reserves. Pastures and forests also contribute to resisting desertification, as well as reducing the effects of climate change and preserving environmental balance. In addition to these environmental benefits, these resources can contribute to the development of the country's economy, as they provide a large part of the needs Fodder and food for domesticated livestock and wildlife at the lowest cost, as well as various other wooden and non-wood products, in addition to the aesthetic and recreational value that these natural environments provide that can be invested in ecotourism activities.

In view of the environmental services and economic products that pasture and forest ecosystems provide, we must preserve and develop them in a sustainable manner by applying the latest scientific and technical foundations. Therefore, the Pasture and Forest Department was established to qualify and graduate highly qualified cadres entrusted with accomplishing this task to the fullest extent.

In keeping with scientific development, during the academic year 2014/2015, the new study program was approved by the college and university councils under the name “Department of Natural Resources,” which includes four scientific tracks:

(Pastures, forests, wildlife, environment), through which the department seeks to provide an effective educational environment that achieves excellence for the graduate at the educational, skill and professional levels and to provide students with theoretical and practical experiences to advance the fields of pastures, forests and wildlife.

It should be noted that the Department Council has completed the preparation of a postgraduate program, the objectives of which are to increase the research capabilities of master’s students and push them towards conducting scientific and applied research that contributes to the conservation and development of these renewable natural resources. The department hopes to begin implementing the new academic program in its four branches, as well as the graduate studies program, in conjunction with the college’s endeavor to implement quality and performance standards for the academic year 2022-2023 AD.