Field Scientific Trip to Al-Shaafyeen Natural Reserve – Msallata

In line with its commitment to enhancing field-based learning and integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application, the Faculty of Science – University of Gharyan organized a field scientific trip on the morning of Thursday, 30 October 2025 to the Al-Shaafyeen Natural Reserve – Msallata. The trip involved the Departments of Zoology, Environmental Science and Natural Resources, and Botany, with participation from graduate students of the Department of Botany, in collaboration with Barari Organization and the Ministry of Environment – Gharyan Branch.

The trip commenced at 9:00 AM from the city of Gharyan, following the route: Gharyan → Abu Ghelan → Al-Hira → Souq Al-Khamis → Abu Aisha Project → Green Tarhuna → Al-Dawon → Al-Shaafyeen.

The objectives of the trip were to enrich the academic experience through field application of environmental and biological concepts, with a focus on:

1. Assessing vegetation cover and biodiversity in the reserve, and studying the constituent plant and animal species.
2. Training students in fieldwork techniques, including the collection and classification of plant and animal specimens.
3. Analyzing local ecosystems and identifying their natural components and influencing factors.
4. Studying soil morphology in the reserve.

During the field activities, live plant samples were collected from various areas within the reserve for subsequent classification in the Faculty’s laboratories, supporting botany and biodiversity studies and enhancing the research and practical skills of the students.

The trip also included on-bus scientific lectures covering the Nafusa Mountains range, extending from Wazen to Al-Shaafyeen Reserve via Gharyan. Topics discussed included geological formations, mountain development stages, geomorphological phenomena, and the region’s distinctive vegetation cover.

At the end of the day, participants returned to Gharyan at 8:00 PM after a day filled with field observations and productive academic discussions, contributing to the reinforcement of scientific concepts and the development of field research skills among the students.

The Faculty of Science – Gharyan extends its sincere thanks to Barari Organization and the Ministry of Environment – Gharyan Branch for their effective contributions to the success of this scientific trip. Gratitude is also expressed to the supervising faculty members and participating students for their commitment and fruitful cooperation, wishing everyone continued success in their academic and scientific journey.

#Faculty_of_Science

#Department_of_Zoology

#Department_of_Environmental_Science_and_Natural_Resources

#Department_of_Botany

#Barari_Organization

#Ministry_of_Environment_Gharyan_Branch

#Al_Shaafyeen_Reserve