Iraq's Alqosh Mountain Gets Helicopter Reforestation Push

A mountain overlooking the historic town of Alqosh, Iraq, is about to get a second chance at life thanks to an ambitious reforestation project that will literally rain seeds from the sky.

The Alqosh Sub-District Directorate has launched "Planting Today for a Greener Tomorrow: A Mountain Worthy of Alqosh and Its People," a campaign to transform the barren slopes into a thriving green landscape. Helicopters from Duhok Governorate will disperse seeds across the mountain face, supervised by environmental specialists to maximize success.

The project addresses a critical need in the region. Years of environmental stress have left the mountain stripped of vegetation, contributing to soil erosion and advancing desertification that threatens the entire area.

Funding came from an unexpected source: an Alqosh native now living in the United States who wanted to give back to their homeland. The expatriate partnered with the Zela Organization for Humanitarian Affairs and local government to make the vision real.

Starting February 25, 2026, the seeding operation will run for two weeks between 9 AM and 3 PM daily. Officials are calling on residents to support the initiative, which represents more than just planting seeds.

The restored vegetation will stabilize soil, prevent further desertification, and improve air quality for the entire region. It's an investment that will pay dividends for decades as young trees mature into forests.

The Ripple Effect

This project shows how environmental restoration can unite communities across continents. One person's love for their hometown sparked a collaboration between local government, international organizations, and everyday citizens.

Former political leader Yusuf Matti praised the campaign as a "tremendous step," though he noted future efforts should launch at the rainy season's start for better results. His feedback shows the community is already thinking long term about environmental stewardship.

Similar helicopter seeding projects have succeeded in restoring degraded landscapes worldwide, from Australia's bushfire zones to China's desert regions. The technique allows rapid coverage of terrain too steep or dangerous for traditional planting.

For Alqosh's residents, watching their mountain turn green again will be watching hope take root in real time.