Recent attacks from Lebanon have ignited devastating fires across northern Israel, burning over 2,500 hectares of Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael – Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF) forests. We urgently need your support to save what remains and plan future rehabilitation.
The Current Crisis
The Western and Upper Galilee regions are suffering ongoing attacks, resulting in severe damage to our cherished forests. The Naftali Mountains, Birya, Bar’am, and Rosh Hanikra forests have been hit hardest, with entire sections burned, recreation areas destroyed, and scenic roads left in ruins.
The Human and Ecological Cost
The impact of these fires extends far beyond the forests themselves. Over 80,000 residents have been forced from their homes, uprooting entire communities. The devastation of forest recreation areas has dealt a severe blow to the northern region’s tourism economy, threatening livelihoods that depend on these natural attractions.
Birds, cattle, and a wide array of plant species have suffered significant harm. Countless animals have lost their habitats, with young wildlife and eggs perishing in the flames. This widespread destruction poses a severe threat to the long-term biodiversity of these unique ecosystems, potentially altering the landscape for generations to come.
The full extent of the damage is still unfolding, and we are witnessing the tragic loss of unique ecosystems and a significant threat to their biodiversity.
Our Immediate Response
KKL-JNF foresters are battling tirelessly to protect the remaining forest areas and manage ongoing fires. They are actively fighting blazes, creating firebreaks, and coordinating with local authorities. However, the challenge is daunting – as soon as our dedicated teams overcome one blaze, another barrage of missiles ignites new fires, forcing us to relentlessly fight against the all-consuming flames.
Looking to the Future: Our Rehabilitation Plan
While full rehabilitation can only begin after the war ends, we are already preparing for the long road ahead. Our pre-rehabilitation process includes:
• Protecting remaining forests and managing fires.
• Removing hazards such as charred trees and damaged infrastructure.
• Assessing damage to forests and recreational sites.
•Conducting ecological and hydrological surveys to guide restoration efforts.
• Developing detailed planting and irrigation plans (operative phase).
These steps are crucial in preparing for the actual rehabilitation, which will commence at least two years after the war ends, allowing the forest to begin its natural regeneration process. The entire rehabilitation will take years, possibly decades, but we must start the preparatory work now to ensure the best possible recovery for our cherished forests.
Your support is crucial. The destruction caused by the fires demands immediate attention and sustained forestry efforts. Join KKL-JNF in clearing the scars of war on Israel’s northern landscapes and restoring its natural beauty to its former glory.