Senir Hatsbani Stream Nature Reserve

March 22nd 2011

Visit the river that both connects and divides two nations. The Senir (Hatsbani) River at 65 kilometers is the longest of the three tributaries to the Jordan River. It runs from Lebanon to the northwestern slopes of Mount Hermon and even forms the border between the two countries for a stretch of four kilometers. You’ll find the Senir’s pools and falls lovely and refreshing, while its green banks provide a welcome respite. The river delivers a yearly average of 135 million cubic meters of water, but can swell in rainier winters. The waters have been a source of conflict in the past and in recent years the Lebanese have diverted part of the Senir to supply local villages, severely limiting Israel’s downstream sources. Negotiations, including American intervention, have worked to reduce the damage.