From the Royal Botanic Garden, where I spent the day with a princess!

Today, I had the honor of visiting the Royal Botanic Garden project with its founder, Her Royal Highness Princess Basma bint Ali. The project, still in the planning and development stages, will become a center for public education, scientific research, and conservation efforts.

During our walking tour, Princess Basma and I discussed habitat preservation and biodiversity. Habitat preservation is a very important part of Royal Botanic Garden project and is vital in resource-poor areas like those found throughout Jordan and the Middle East. Princess Basma pointed out some species of almonds and other indigenous plants. One of the project’s main goals is to reintroduce the native species that have been pushed out of the area by invasive plants and non-native animal species. Eucalyptus, for example, is a plant that competes aggressively with indigenous plants. Catfish are also taking up precious room in the project’s waters and need to be removed.

Another goal of the project is to reduce the strains put on the land by humans and animals. Part of meeting this second goal will require limiting the amount of grazing. As Jordan’s population has expanded, so has the number of animals grazing on its land. As a result, most of the grass gets consumed, and the land is left with little to no vegetation. The Royal Botanic Garden staff are trying to address this by working with local shepherds to limit the number of animals they put on the land.

It’s inspiring to see a team of scientists, engineers, educators, farmers, experts, and even royalty, come together to tackle the environmental problems in their area, preserving and promoting Jordan’s natural habitats. It was great to see conservation in action, and inspired me to think of ways I can protect local wildlife in my own area.

Tomorrow: Time for some relaxation and recovery.

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