Nearly 100 hectares of Syrian forest have been destroyed in 191 separate fires since the summer season began, the al-Thawra newspaper quoted an environment ministry official as saying Friday.
Ziad Jibawi, the ministry's forestry chief, told the daily: "A hundred and 91 fires have destroyed 1,039 donums (about 100 hectares, 250 acres) of forest in Alep and Idlib provinces.
"Most of the fires were caused by negligence," he added.
However, the paper also reported there were fewer fires than in previous years.
It said the forestry department put this down to "public awareness and more modern firefighting equipment — including helicopters, reservoirs, vehicles and communications — and training of firemen and volunteers".
About three percent of Syria is forested, mainly in coastal areas and mountainous regions in the south.
