Qa'a Azraq Oasis: Strengthening stakeholder representation in restoration (Jordan)

Abstract

The Azraq Oasis wetland is a unique ecosystem in an arid region with immense biological, cultural, and socioeconomic value. This Ramsar Site contains three major subecosystems: a freshwater lake ecosystem; a marsh ecosystem with moderately saline waters and soils; and the Qa'a mudflat ecosystem, which now has highly saline waters and soils. Distribution of flora, fauna, and aquatic species varies according to each habitat. The site faces many challenges, most of which are related to the over-extraction of scarce water resources. This chapter highlights how ownership of natural resource management implies a sense of accountability for the actions undertaken for restoration management, with emphasis on stakeholder accountability for sustainable oasis use and management toward themselves, the oasis ecosystem, and their community. It also reviews successes, challenges, and lessons learned from strengthening stakeholder platforms for oasis management in Jordan.