Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael-Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF)'s Central Region encompasses approximately 109,000 acres of planted forests, stretching from Yokneam and Zikhron Ya'akov in the north to Beit Guvrin in the south. In recent years, alongside the security challenges in northern and southern Israel, communities in the region have faced an increase in both the frequency and intensity of forest fires. Climate change has further exacerbated this trend, placing nearby communities, critical infrastructure, and vast forested areas at greater risk.
Under the program, participating municipalities will receive dedicated funding to purchase equipment and tools for initial wildfire response. 73 communities will receive NIS 150,000 each, while an additional 21 communities will receive NIS 100,000 each. Eligible communities were selected based on their proximity to forests, overlap with forested areas, wildfire risk assessments by Israel Fire and Rescue Services, and wildfire history over the past five years.
While Israel Fire and Rescue Services holds primary responsibility for firefighting operations, KKL-JNF plays a vital supporting role in wildfire prevention and response in forests and open spaces, thanks to its extensive field presence, specialized equipment, and intimate knowledge of Israel's forests.
"In a forest fire, the first few minutes are critical," said KKL-JNF Chairman Eyal Ostreinsky. "Our goal is to provide communities on the front line of the forest with the tools they need to respond quickly, minimize damage, and protect lives, homes, and the forest itself. This is a direct investment in the safety of Israel's residents and in preserving the country's open spaces."