On Saturday, September 6, 2025, REEF Association in collaboration with the Municipality of Ferzol will host a special event entitled “Farming with Balance” in Ferzol’s public garden. This community gathering brings together farmers, environmentalists, and citizens to reflect on the future of sustainable agriculture in Lebanon through film, expert insights, and public discussion.
At the heart of the evening is the premiere screening of “Snake Hill”, a short documentary by filmmaker Joelle Abou Chabké.
Shot in the fields of Ferzol and featuring local farmers, the film sheds light on the harmful impact of chemical pesticides and how their excessive use endangers biodiversity, especially snakes, reptiles, and insects that are vital to maintaining ecological balance.
The story follows Joëlle as she returns to her homeland with her husband Melhem to launch a permaculture project. With the support of her herpetologist friend Rami, she confronts her fear of snakes—only to realize that her true challenge lies beyond: the neighboring lands, severely damaged by pesticides.
Through this personal journey, the film triggers conversations about alternative farming practices, the protection of nature, and the urgent need to open a wider dialogue on these issues.
The program will also include a presentation by Ramy Khashab, a herpetology expert who also appears in the film as one of its main characters. Ramy will introduce participants to the world of reptiles and snakes, explain their ecological role, and show how they are beneficial for agricultural fields. His talk will further explore how these species are directly threatened by pesticide overuse, linking scientific knowledge to lived farming practices.
The central focus of the evening is the interactive roundtable discussion, designed as a space for open and constructive dialogue. Farmers, agricultural engineers, environmentalists, and filmmakers will share perspectives and experiences on:
• The impact of toxic pesticides on agriculture, biodiversity, and human health.
• Viable and safe alternative farming methods.
• The importance of biodiversity in sustaining healthy fields.
• Everyday challenges faced by farmers and possible pathways toward more balanced practices.
This exchange of knowledge and practices aims to encourage reflection, mutual learning, and stronger community connections, paving the way for more sustainable futures.
Entrance is free but prior registration is required through this link
harnesses the power of arts and knowledge-sharing to raise awareness of environmental protection, foster connections among rural communities, and inspire the crafting of a new collective narrative.