Province
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Harrat al-Harrah Truffles
| Harrat al Harrah is a wildlife reserved which is also well known for its truffles. The truffles are considered to be of very high quality, and the short season begins in early spring |
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The Harrat al Harrah Protected Area is located to the west and south of Turaif and extending into Jouf Province. The main ranger station for the area is around 7km from the reserve boundary and about 40km from the main highway. It is reached along a gravel road and has a staffing complement of 15 rangers. There are a further 45 additional staff working from 8 other ranger stations (6 of which are in Jouf Province).
The protected area covers 13,775sq km and consists of flat to rolling terrain. Some areas are exposed sedimentary rock where vegetation grows and basaltic rock surface (remains of old lava flows) which is barren.
After a heavy rain, this area and other desert areas in the province have a lush and attractive growth of wildflowers and other plants. The protected area contains a variety of wildlife including Wolf, Jackal, Reem, Hyena, Rabbits, Lizards, Houbara Bustard and other birds.
Harrat al Harrah is also well known for its truffles, which are considered to be of very high quality. The main truffle season is from early spring and the main types are; Al Zubaidi - the largest truffle, white in color; and Al Khalaisi - smaller than Al Zubaidi, and darker in color. Local people collect the truffles both to eat themselves and to sell.
Access to the protected area is via permit only, which should be obtained from NCWCD before entry. Permits are allowed for one week and are given for two reasons: to pick truffles and for camping. Up to 200 permits are granted during the truffles season. Few permits are currently given for general camping. Use of tents by campers is not allowed but fires can be lit.
National Commission for Wildlife Conservation and Development (NCWCD)
Tel: 01-441 8700
Fax: 01-441 0797
mcwcd@zajil.net |
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