𝐄𝐒𝐎 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐋𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝐄𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐖𝐚𝐝𝐢 𝐃𝐚𝐰𝐤𝐚𝐡

ESO Completes Landmark Environmental Assessment of Wadi Dawkah

The Environment Society of Oman (ESO) has completed a comprehensive environmental assessment of Wadi Dawkah in Dhofar, providing a scientific baseline for future conservation and biodiversity protection at the UNESCO-listed Land of Frankincense site.

The study examined wild, plantation and transplanted frankincense trees (Boswellia sacra), alongside the wider ecosystem. Field surveys, mapping, literature reviews and camera traps were used to assess wildlife and environmental conditions.

Encouragingly, the wild frankincense population is showing early signs of recovery, with seedlings recorded for the first time since 2003. Reduced grazing pressure following fencing has contributed to this positive development.

The 1,500-hectare reserve, located around 40km north of Salalah, also supports diverse wildlife, including 43 recorded bird species, six reptile species and eight mammal species.

The assessment includes a conservation action plan focused on protecting mature trees, encouraging natural regeneration, improving transplantation, restoring plantations and protecting trees outside the fenced reserve.