Modelling land Suitability for Cedrus libani afforestation and reforestation in Lebanon

The aim of this study is to identify the suitable areas for reforestation and afforestation of Cedrus libani at an altitude above 500 m in Lebanon. For this purpose, a GIS-based model for assessing the susceptibility of territory, by using a parametric concept of land evaluation, has been proposed. Additionally, elevation and eight other limiting factors (aspect, rainfall, substrata relative soil deposits and geological characteristics, soil depth, soil drainage, soil pH, CEC capacity and nutrients deficiencies) affecting land suitability for cedars trees were identified and integrated into the model. The results indicate that 8.9% of the area of study is highly suitable for natural regeneration, 40.3% is moderately suitable, and 50.8% of this area is unsuitable for habitation. The analysis obtained can be considered as a preliminary indication for future reforestation and afforestation intervention to facilitate the process of planting of Cedrus libani. Keywords: Cedrus libani, natural regeneration, soil, land suitability, reforestation and afforestation.