press releases 2009

In Ehmej, the U.S. funds forest fire fighting and community center

June 17, 2009

Ambassador Michele J. Sison broke ground on a new forest fire fighting and community center in Ehmej in northern Lebanon, an area prone to forest fires.  Attending the ceremony were the Governor of Byblos, mayors of Ehmej and surrounding communities, parliamentary members, members of civil society organizations, and community leaders.

This new center will increase the Ehmej municipality’s capacity and be a regional center of excellence supporting the surrounding communities.  The center will focus on the protection, conservation, and growth of the forests in Ehmej and the surrounding area as well as provide a community gathering place. 

This new, two-floor facility, which will cost over $500,000, is part of the Department of Defense’s Humanitarian Assistance Program.  These types of projects enable the U.S. Government to continue to assist the Lebanese people.

Since 2006, the U.S the Department of Defense has committed over $3 million in humanitarian assistance to Lebanon, working closely with the Lebanese Ministry of Interior and Ministry of Education.