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Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael - Jewish National Fund

Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael - Jewish National Fund KKL - JNF has been developing the land of Israel, strengthening the bond between the Jewish people a

02/04/2025

Exciting Discovery in Yatir Forest! 🌳🏺

A beautifully painted 1,200-year-old clay jug, featuring camel illustrations, was recently uncovered at Hurvat Anim in Yatir Forest during renewed excavations by the Israel Antiquities Authority, part of a KKL-JNF initiative to develop the site for visitors.

The rare find offers a glimpse into life during the Abbasid period, when camels were vital to the economy. Nearby discoveries include an ancient olive press and a Byzantine-era synagogue, now fully preserved.

KKL-JNF is proud to support the preservation of Hurvat Anim, connecting Jewish history with remarkable archaeological heritage in the Negev.

📸 See the photos >>

01/04/2025

📚 North American Ultra-Orthodox Educators Connect with Israel Through KKL-JNF 🇮🇱✡️
Dozens of educators from across North America joined a powerful KKL-JNF seminar in Israel, deepening their connection to the land, people, and story of the Jewish state.
From visiting heritage sites and meeting changemakers to witnessing resilience in the Gaza Envelope, these educators return home as ambassadors—ready to inspire the next generation.
🌱 Strengthening Jewish identity, one experience at a time.

27/03/2025

🌾

Tilling the land at Mikveh Israel Agricultural School, a historic institution that shaped generations of pioneers in Israel’s agricultural development.

📸 Photo by: Shmuel Gutman, 1961 | KKL-JNF Photo Archive

25/03/2025

🚴‍♂️ Cyclists, Here’s a Must-Ride Trail in Central Israel!

Introducing the Kanaim Bike Trail – a scenic circular route through the picturesque landscapes of the Judean Lowlands, blending nature, history, and art. Carefully designed for cycling enthusiasts, this trail offers a mix of physical and technical challenges while treating you to stunning views and fascinating historical sites.

📍 Kanam Bike Trail, Central Judean Lowlands
🚴‍♀️ Difficulty Level: Intermediate
🛤️ Total Ascent: 466m
🌿 Best Season: Winter

The trailhead is located near the KKL-JNF offices, about 200 meters north of Givat Yeshayahu Junction (Highway 38, km marker 😎.
So, gear up, hop on your bike, and discover this hidden gem in the heart of Israel – the Kanaim Bike Trail! 🚵‍♂️✨

📸 Photo Credit: Ilan Shaham, KKL-JNF Photo Archive

24/03/2025

When Memory Becomes a Journey ❤️

In the past six months, over 200,000 people each month have chosen to visit our site in the Re’im Forest.
Not for the view or a hiking trail – but to pause, remember, and connect.

The Nova Festival Memorial, initiated by bereaved families, has become the most visited KKL-JNF site, and perhaps one of the most visited in Israel.

Thousands arrive every day – young people, families, soldiers – to see the faces, hear the stories, and make sure the memory belongs to all of us.

We at KKL-JNF are proud to care for this place with dignity and love. A space where memory lives, and where pain meets hope.

📸 Photo: Yoav Lin, KKL-JNF Photo Archive

23/03/2025

A Sign That Spring Has Arrived...

The call of the francolin is one of the clearest signs that spring is here!
This elusive bird is a resident species in Israel, meaning it does not migrate, yet spotting it is no easy task—it is extremely cautious and secretive.

With the arrival of spring, male francolins claim their nesting territories, find an elevated perch, and proudly call out to announce their domain.

📸 Photo: Inbar Shlomit Rubin, אגמון החולה קק"ל - Agamon Hula

18/03/2025

Planting Hope for the Future 🌱

Dozens of ambassadors from various countries participated Yesterday in a tour of southern Israel, initiated by KKL-JNF in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ambassadors’ Club. The tour aimed to provide diplomats with firsthand insight into the devastating impact of the war on the Gaza Envelope and the rehabilitation efforts led by KKL-JNF to support affected communities and restore damaged lands.

During the day, the ambassadors visited the Gilat Nursery, where they received a professional briefing on the challenges of recovery and development. They also toured Kibbutz Kfar Aza, met with residents, and heard firsthand accounts of the tragic events. Additionally, they visited the renovated Nova Festival site.

As a symbol of hope and renewal, the ambassadors joined KKL-JNF Chairwoman Yifat Ovadia-Luski and KKL-JNF leadership in planting trees at Yaar Magen (Magen Forest).

KKL-JNF remains committed to rebuilding the region and strengthening ties with the international community, believing that strong partnerships will help ensure a brighter future for the South.

📸 Check out the photos from the tour!

Photo credit: Bruno Sharvit, KKL-JNF Photo Archive

17/03/2025

Strengthening the South – A New Future in Sha’ar HaNegev

As the communities of the Gaza Envelope recover from the crisis they have endured, we at KKL-JNF, together with JNF-USA and KKL France, are launching a significant project to strengthen community resilience – the establishment of a new athletics center in Sha’ar HaNegev.

Named in honor of Ophir Libstein z”l, the former regional council head who was murdered on October 7, the center will feature state-of-the-art sports facilities, professional athletics tracks, and upgraded soccer fields. Beyond hosting national and international competitions, it will serve as a home for community activities, education, and regional resilience.

The revival of Israel after the war is the great Zionist challenge of our time, and this center is a key milestone in the renewal of the Gaza Envelope. Sports are not just about competition – they are a tool for healing both body and soul, and we are proud to establish an innovative and leading facility that will be a source of pride for the region.

KKL-JNF remains committed to supporting the communities of the South – together, we will rebuild this beautiful part of Israel ❤️

Photos: Ran Tzarfati, KKL-JNF Photo Archive

16/03/2025

Meet Alona Forest 🌳✨

📍 Alona Forest is a unique cluster of forested areas in the northwestern region of Ramat Menashe..

📖 Planted by KKL-JNF, the forest features low hills based on soft white chalk rock, and its central highlight – Har Ha’Agol (The Round Mountain), an impressive memorial site with a nearby recreation area close to Moshav Amikam.

🚙 Explore Alona Forest on thrilling 4x4 trails, walk through pastures, orchards, and vineyards, and discover the two nearby nature reserves – Har Horshan and Borika Nature Reserve.

🌿 If you’re looking for an adventure in the diverse landscapes of Ramat Menashe, this is the perfect place for you!

🧭 Navigate with Waze: Alona Forest

📸 Have you visited the forest? Tag us in your photos!

14/03/2025

Purim of the Past – A Beauty Pageant, a Crown, and a Trip to Israel! 👑✨

Who would have thought that the Queen Esther beauty pageant was once a highlight of Purim celebrations in Jewish communities worldwide?
In honor of Purim, the KKL-JNF Photo Archive unveils a rare collection of photographs from these pageants held in the 1950s and 1960s, where winners didn’t just receive a sparkling crown – they were also awarded an unforgettable trip to Israel!

Young Jewish women aged 17 to 24 competed in the event, representing local Jewish organizations.
Originating in Eretz Yisrael during the British Mandate, the pageant became a cherished tradition in Jewish communities across the U.S., the UK, Cuba, and beyond, serving as a key fundraising tool for settlement, afforestation, and land acquisition in Israel.
The grand Purim balls, held under the auspices of KKL-JNF offices around the world, brought communities together in celebration and support of Israel.

Among the images, you can spot Evelyn Gutman being crowned Queen Esther in California in 1962, alongside Israeli-American actress Ziva Rodann, as well as snapshots from the Queen Esther pageant in Australia.

Scroll through the images for a rare glimpse into this unique Jewish tradition.
Happy Purim! 🎭🎉

13/03/2025

🎭✨ Purim of Hope and Unity ✨🎭

This year, Purim arrives at a meaningful time, reminding us of the power of solidarity, giving, and hope. As we share Mishloach Manot and listen to the Megillah, let us wish for days filled with light, strengthened hearts, and true joy that comes from our connection to one another.

May we hear good news and see peaceful days ahead.
Wishing you a Happy Purim💙

The photo is from the Zionist Archive, the KKL-JNF Photo Archive

11/03/2025

Did You Know? 🌳🍄

Forests are much more than what meets the eye. Beneath the surface, a complex biological network connects the trees— all thanks to mycorrhizal fungi.

This unique relationship, known as "mycorrhiza" (myco = fungus, rhiza = root), is a mutual exchange: fungal threads pe*****te tree roots, helping absorb carbohydrates from the plant, while the tree, in return, provides the fungi with essential minerals.

🌱 This hidden underground network strengthens the health and resilience of the entire ecosystem, creating a forest-wide support system!

09/03/2025

❤️✨

Love is in the air at KKL-JNF’s Hula Lake Park, as nature awakens with new beginnings and heartwarming moments in the wild.

📸 Photo by: Inbar Shlomit Rubin

07/03/2025

Women Who Made History – In Color! 🎥✨

In honor of International Women’s Day, we’re bringing back to life the moments of the pioneering women who led, created, and built this land.

Using AI-powered technology, rare historical photographs from the KKL-JNF Photo Archive have been carefully restored and colorized, breathing new life into the stories of the strong women who were here from the very beginning.

Because of them—their path, resilience, and dedication—we are here today. 💙🌿

🎬 Watch the video >>

06/03/2025

A Journey in the Forest – KKL-JNF Strengthens the Bond with the Jewish Diaspora 🌍🇮🇱

The KKL-JNF Board of Directors has approved support of up to 35 million NIS for the Masa program, which brings young Jews from around the world to long-term programs in Israel. This decision was made in recognition of the growing need to strengthen Jewish identity and the connection to Israel, especially during a time when Jewish communities worldwide are facing significant challenges.

Masa, established by the Israeli government and The Jewish Agency, offers young Jews aged 18–30 opportunities to participate in education, professional internships, volunteer work, and cultural experiences in Israel. With over 210,000 alumni, the program serves as a crucial bridge between Israel and the Jewish Diaspora.

KKL-JNF’s support will expand the program, integrating unique educational content and deepening participants’ connection to KKL-JNF’s activities, heritage sites, and environmental initiatives across Israel.

Because the future of the Jewish people begins here—with a journey of roots, Zionism, and belonging.

03/03/2025

Remembering the Seven Girls – 28 Years Since the Naharayim Massacre

Yesterday, together with the bereaved families, students, government representatives, and local leaders, we gathered at Givat HaPerachim – The Hill of Flowers, the memorial site dedicated to the seven young girls whose lives were tragically taken in the horrific attack at the Island of Peace in Naharayim, 28 years ago.

The memorial march and official ceremony were filled with pain, but also with a promise—a promise to continue sharing their story, to remember their young faces and unfulfilled dreams, and to pass on to future generations the values of remembrance, reconciliation, and hope.

KKL-JNF has always been, and will continue to be, an integral part of preserving this memorial site, established by Orna Shimoni—not just as a silent monument, but as a living and meaningful place that educates about humanity, memory, and peace. As Shimi Brown, Acting CEO of KKL-JNF, stated at the event:
"This is our moral duty—towards the families and towards Israeli society as a whole."

We will continue our efforts to ensure that their story remains deeply engraved in the heart of Israeli society, because their memory is a part of us, and it is our duty to remember and tell their story. 💙

02/03/2025

: Eshkol Park 🌿✨
Difficulty: Easy | Recommended Season: Year-round | Location: South

🏞️ About the Place:
Eshkol Park is a unique green oasis located on the southern bank of Nahal HaBesor. Here, you’ll find vast grassy areas, palm, olive, and acacia trees, and flowing water streams perfect for dipping your feet.

The park is home to Eshkol National Park, also known as Besor Stream Park, an impressive memorial site named after Levi Eshkol, jointly managed by KKL-JNF and the Israel Nature and Parks Authority.

🌿 What to Enjoy:
✔️ Marked hiking trails 🚶‍♂️
✔️ A lake with a constant 20°C (68°F) temperature all year round 🏊‍♂️
✔️ Fishing spots 🎣
✔️ Don’t miss the picturesque Irish Bridge, connecting the park to Besor Scenic Route. Nearby, a section of the old railway bridge has been restored, featuring a historic train car as a tribute to the past.

🧭 Navigate with Waze: Eshkol Park (Highway 241, between km markers 4-5)

Come experience the magic of nature—relax, explore, and enjoy! 🌳💙

27/02/2025

🌿

Rehabilitation (Shikum) – The process of restoring balance and vitality to nature in areas affected by human activity, natural events, or warfare. KKL-JNF leads forest rehabilitation projects with a vision for a greener and more sustainable future.

Address

Hakeren Hakayemet Leisrael
Jerusalem

Website

https://www.kkl-jnf.org/

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Videos

A Sign That Spring Has Arrived...

A Sign That Spring Has Arrived... The call of the francolin is one of the clearest signs that spring is here! This elusive bird is a resident species in Israel, meaning it does not migrate, yet spotting it is no easy task—it is extremely cautious and secretive. With the arrival of spring, male francolins claim their nesting territories, find an elevated perch, and proudly call out to announce their domain. 📸 Photo: Inbar Shlomit Rubin, אגמון החולה קק"ל - Agamon Hula

Women Who Made History – In Color! 🎥✨

Women Who Made History – In Color! 🎥✨ In honor of International Women’s Day, we’re bringing back to life the moments of the pioneering women who led, created, and built this land. Using AI-powered technology, rare historical photographs from the KKL-JNF Photo Archive have been carefully restored and colorized, breathing new life into the stories of the strong women who were here from the very beginning. Because of them—their path, resilience, and dedication—we are here today. 💙🌿 🎬 Watch the video >>

Winter may have just arrived... ❄️

Winter may have just arrived... ❄️ But the cranes in Agamon Ahula Lake are already preparing for their spring migration, and you can almost feel the excitement in the air! Starting in March, the cranes will take flight, soon to be joined by storks, pelicans, and millions of other migrating birds, creating one of nature’s most breathtaking spectacles. 🕊️✨

Autumn colors in KKL-JNF’s Agamon Hula

Autumn colors in KKL-JNF’s Agamon Hula Image: Inbar Shlomit Rubin

A moment in nature>>

A moment in nature>> Cranes and pelicans at KKL-JNF’s Hula Lake Park Image: Inbar Shlomit Rubin

Did you know?

Did you know? In light of the decline in the bee population, KKL- NF plants numerous pollen-producing trees and shrubs in its forests and allows beekeepers to set up hives near them. Among the trees that contribute to the growth of the bee population are jujube, almond, and judas as well as shrubs such as laurestine, sage, and chaste.

Despite the turmoil in the north, the breathtaking migration at Agamon Hula-KKL continues undisturbed. Take a moment to watch as the majestic cranes gather for the night, a true testament to nature's resilience. 🕊️🌅 📸 Photo: inbar Shlomit Rubin

Then, now and for always

It’s been a tough year but we’re still here Then, now and for always. “Shana Tova Umetuka” - “May you have a good and sweet year”

KKL-JNF is battling wildfires across the Galilee 🔥 Sadly, due to heavy enemy fire from Lebanon, multiple blazes have erupted in KKL-JNF’s Ba’al Shem Tov Forest near Safed. Our dedicated firefighters, together with Israel’s Fire and Rescue Services, are working hard to contain and extinguish the flames under extremely challenging conditions. We are committed to protecting Israel’s forests, local communities, and the unique ecosystem of the Galilee. Watch the live footage from the burning forests>>>

9/11 Memorial Ceremony Live From Jerusalem

As we approach the anniversary of the tragic events of 9/11, please plan to tune in this Wednesday at 11 am U.S. ET as we will be live streaming our annual 9/11 Commemoration Ceremony from the 9/11 Living Memorial in Jerusalem.

pelicans

A pods of pelicans arrived at Agamon Hula Lake Video: inbar Shlomit Rubin🎗

Shortcuts

Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael

Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael-Jewish National Fund is Israel. Stewards to the land and its people since 1901, KKL-JNF has planted over 240 million trees, bringing the arid landscapes to life through an afforestation effort unparalleled worldwide. Together with its friends in Israel and around the world, KKL-JNF has created parks, forests and open spaces for the benefit of the Israeli public and its many visitors. KKL-JNF continues to plan, develop and nurture the land while preserving its green lungs, nature and heritage. KKL-JNF’s official colors are visible throughout the country: Blue for water management and river rehabilitation, Green for forestry, ecology and tourism, and Brown for people and the land.

KKL-JNF sees the rich human tapestry of Israel as key to its future. It is empowering a new generation of leadership through values-based education for Zionism, sustainability and love of the land, and supporting special needs and informal educational frameworks. KKL-JNF views the Negev and Galilee regions as Israel’s future engine of growth. Through its flagship Israel 2040 project, KKL-JNF is spearheading their transformation from disadvantaged outliers to thriving hubs for research and technology. With its roots deep in the ground and its eyes to the future, KKL-JNF is moving Israel to the land of tomorrow, today.