Story Background

In early 2023, the community of Azraq in Jordan experienced one of its most severe flood events in recent memory. The floodwaters caused extensive damage to critical infrastructure, including schools, health centers, farms, and homes. Over 6,000 residents were affected, and essential services were disrupted, highlighting the urgent need for a sustainable and long-term flood mitigation strategy. Recognizing these challenges, local leaders, stakeholders, community members, and the Islamic Network for Water Resources Development and Management (INWRDAM) came together to develop a nature-based, community-driven initiative aimed at reducing flood risks while restoring the fragile ecosystem of Wadi Al-Rattameh, a critical flood-prone area

Story Description

A community-led, ecosystem-based flood risk reduction initiative was launched to strengthen resilience in Azraq. The project focused on rehabilitating and protecting the ecosystem of Wadi Al-Rattameh by constructing water harvesting bonds and a leaky dam. These interventions effectively slowed down floodwaters, enhanced groundwater recharge, reduced sediment transport, and supported biodiversity regeneration.

Approach & Main Components

IImplemented as part of a broader effort focused on water harvesting sites and monitoring, the initiative employed a multi-faceted nature-based approach that included: Building water harvesting structures (such as bonds and a leaky dam) to manage floodwater flow. Restoring the ecosystem to improve vegetation cover and increase soil moisture retention. Establishing community-based monitoring to track performance and adapt interventions as necessary. Engaging local leadership and stakeholders to ensure ownership and the ongoing maintenance of the interventions. This integrated approach promoted both environmental and social resilience within the community.

Description of Sustainability Status

Nature-Based Flood Resilience in Azraq In early 2023, the community of Azraq faced one of the most devastating flood events in recent years. Torrents of water swept through the town, damaging critical infrastructure including the health center, local market, school, farms, and key service areas. The community was left vulnerable, and the need for a long-term, sustainable solution became urgent. In response, a community-driven, ecosystem-based flood risk reduction initiative was launched. The project focused on nature-based solutions to restore and protect the fragile ecosystem of Wadi Al-Rattameh. The team implemented a series of water harvesting bonds and a leaky dam along the wadi, designed to slow down floodwaters, enhance groundwater recharge, and reduce sediment transport. “These structures not only protect our town but also bring water back to the land,” said a Head of Azraq Municipality. “Now, I see green where there used to be mud.” The impact has been immediate and visible. Rainy Season witnessed taken shows improved vegetation, increased soil moisture retention, and a noticeable reduction in flood risk areas. The project has restored local confidence and reconnected the community with their natural environment — proving that resilience can be built through collective action and smart use of nature. These interventions saved 400,000 cubic meters of water annually, shielding 6,000 residents from destructive floods. Schools, homes, and critical infrastructure are safer, while 10,000 revived trees have rekindled biodiversity. “Our children walk to school without fear,” shares a Southern Azraq Women association and community leader Mrs. Nofa Alfayez

Additional Information

Nature-Based Flood Resilience in Azraq In early 2023, the community of Azraq faced one of the most devastating flood events in recent years. Torrents of water swept through the town, damaging critical infrastructure including the health center, local market, school, farms, and key service areas. The community was left vulnerable, and the need for a long-term, sustainable solution became urgent. In response, a community-driven, ecosystem-based flood risk reduction initiative was launched. The project focused on nature-based solutions to restore and protect the fragile ecosystem of Wadi Al-Rattameh. The team implemented a series of water harvesting bonds and a leaky dam along the wadi, designed to slow down floodwaters, enhance groundwater recharge, and reduce sediment transport. “These structures not only protect our town but also bring water back to the land,” said a Head of Azraq Municipality. “Now, I see green where there used to be mud.” The impact has been immediate and visible. Rainy Season witnessed taken shows improved vegetation, increased soil moisture retention, and a noticeable reduction in flood risk areas. The project has restored local confidence and reconnected the community with their natural environment — proving that resilience can be built through collective action and smart use of nature. These interventions saved 400,000 cubic meters of water annually, shielding 6,000 residents from destructive floods. Schools, homes, and critical infrastructure are safer, while 10,000 revived trees have rekindled biodiversity. “Our children walk to school without fear,” shares a Southern Azraq Women association and community leader Mrs. Nofa Alfayez

Achievements & Impacts

Protected more than 6,000 residents from recurring floods. Conserved approximately 400,000 cubic meters of water annually through water harvesting. Safeguarded key infrastructure including schools, homes, and public facilities from flood damage. Restored vegetation and biodiversity, including the revival of 10,000 trees. Empowered local leadership, with active involvement from women leaders such as Mrs. Nofa Alfayez, building trust and encouraging community participation. Improved safety and well-being across the community, reflected in the statement: “Our children walk to school without fear.” Developed a replicable and scalable model for nature-based climate resilience in arid regions.