The local Arab inhabitants traditionally used the area for pasture, firewood and intermittent cultivation. The intensification of settlement and agriculture in the coastal plain during the 19th century led to deforestation and subsequent environmental degradation.
Historically, the area was used by the local Arab population for temporary farming, fuel collection, and occasional pasture use. However, with increased settlement and agricultural development in the coastal plain during the 19th century, deforestation and environmental degradation ensued.