Over 1,500 pine saplings planted to restore Qaladze forest

SULAYMANIYAH — A reforestation initiative in Qaladze’s Husni Hill forest has seen the planting of over 1,500 pine saplings across six acres, part of an effort to restore areas ravaged by fires earlier this year. The campaign, led by the Forestry and Pastures Department in Pshdar, aims to rejuvenate the forest, a significant ecological site in Sulaymaniyah governorate’s Raparin Independent Administration.

“In a recent reforestation campaign in Husni Hill Forest, we have successfully planted more than 1,500 pine saplings across 6 acres of land. We are continuing our work to increase the forested area further,” Sirwan Mohammed, spokesperson for the department, told 964 Media.

Husni Hill forest suffered extensive damage this year, with fires destroying over 2,000 mature trees and saplings. The reforestation effort includes planting new trees and filling gaps left by the fire to aid natural regeneration.

The pine saplings, of the Arizona pine variety, were sourced locally from the Shazad Saib Nursery under the Raperin Forestry Directorate. Mohammed noted that the team oversees the planting and maintenance of the saplings to ensure healthy growth.

Currently, the young trees are watered using tanker trucks, but plans are underway to introduce a drip irrigation system for greater efficiency and sustainability. This shift aligns with a broader move toward sustainable forestry practices in the region.

Forested areas in Qaladze span over 400 acres, with green cover accounting for only 10% of the district. This reforestation campaign represents a significant step toward increasing forested land, combating climate change, and preserving biodiversity in the area.