Development of a zoning management plan for petra archaeological park (PAP), Jordan

Abstract

As Petra is increasingly becoming a major tourism destination in Jordan, this underlies not only challenges to conserve the habitats and species in Petra but also offers great opportunities to promote academic research and investigation, demonstrate sustainable development and initiation of environmentally sound development and nature based tourism. This investigation is based on both desktop studies and field missions. The desktop part is relied on reviewing various studies and reports that highlighting natural resources in the area. Two field missions were conducted aiming to document various information from related authorities and institutions operating in Petra and also to undertake ground truthing of habitats and species information. The missions also included interviews with Park staff, representatives from ongoing projects and initiatives in Petra (Seyaha-USAID) and many locals belonging to various tribes in Wadi Musa and The Bdul. The study presents a synthesis to findings from these studies and visits. Broadly, the park can be zoned into three mega zones: 1) Wadi Arabah and the steep gorges to the west including the Artemisia and annual grasses steppe to the west, 2) Mountainous ridges and rocky slopes of the Mediterranean region located almost centrally in the park and at the southern limit and part of the eastern borders and 3) Central basin and steep limestone scarps and weathered sandstone. Based on lists of key and indicator species, some key/sensitive sites of conservation value have been suggested. Aspects of grazing, agricultural activities, tourism and water resources and their implications on management schemes have been discussed.