The Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs has signed a cooperation agreement with Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) to grow the Mangrove trees, remove 'Al Ghiwaif' sea weeds. It will also facilitate growing of local grass at the Wilayat of Al Jazir, according to a report of Oman News Agency (ONA). Ali bin Amir al Kiyomi, Director General of Nature Conservation signed the agreement on behalf of the Ministry whereas Munthir bin Salim al Barwani, PDO's Human Resources Director signed it on behalf of PDO. By virtue of the agreement, PDO will grow the Mangrove tree in the Wilayat of Al Jazir, being one of Oman marine environment's most important resources as it conserves the ecological balance, hosts a variety of fish species of high commercial value, and other marine species, in addition, to it's magnificent landscape, he said. The agreement also includes removal of 'Al Ghiwaif' sea weeds that threat local trees, plant and pastures and harm animal wealth in terms of depleting the groundwater resources, thereby, resulting in extinction of mammals, such as, the grey hare and desert fox, he added. 'Oman local trees likewise 'Sumur, Ghaf, Sidr, and Showa species will also be grown, in order to preserve local vegetations being an important natural resource for local residents, he pointed out. The agreement is part of the ministry's activities to mark 2010 International Year for Biological Diversity, as well as, involving the private sector in Sultanate's ecological activities, he added.
