Karst

The Lazzab Dannieh Nature Reserve is recognized by distinctive karst landforms created from the dissolution of soluble limestone rocks. The karst is homogeneous in this region and forms plateaus as well as solution joints, solution pits, lapiaz, grooves and sinkholes.
The karst provides the area with a unique hydrogeology system that result in aquifers which are highly productive but extremely vulnerable to water pollution. Other important karst formations in Lebanon include the Baatara Pothole and three natural bridges in Chatine, the Kfardebian Bridge in Kessrouan and the Jeita Grotto.

Factors affecting Karst formation:

• Rock types (soluble)
• Geological structure and formations
• Degree of the earth surface slope
• Climatic conditions (high rainfall and snow)

Karst landforms and landscapes must be preserved because:

• They carry enormous interest to biodiversity (bats) and hydrology (water reservoirs and channels).
• They ensure underground water recharge for the most important springs in Lebanon.
• They are very sensitive points regarding groundwater pollution. Karst landforms constitute the fastest way to induce water pollution in the event of human activities that may develop in their surroundings.

For more information about Karst, please contact:

Spéléo Club du Liban (SCL): 03.759958
Association Libanaise d'Etudes Spéléologiques (ALES) 03.666469
Groupe d'Etudes Souterraines au Liban (GERSL): 03.275353