The Masrik Forest, named after Tomáš Masaryk, is located between Migdal HaEmek Tower and Kibbutz Sarid, which was founded by Czech immigrants. As part of KKL – JNF's work in the area, environmental development was carried out, including a commemorative corner and explanatory signage about Tomáš Masaryk, a disabled parking area, a hiking trail, and a picnic table area for the benefit of the Sarid residents, cyclists in the area, and the general public.
The Sarid Forest, also known as the "Masarik Forest," is part of the Balfour Forest and is adjacent to Kibbutz Sarid. The forest was planted in 1930 in honor of Tomáš Masaryk's birthday, who was a true friend of the Jews. The forest was planted with donations from Czech Jews, with the assistance of the Czech President, and was given to the first Sarid settlers for their livelihood. KKL - JNF conducts restoration and upgrading works in the area, as a perpetuation and tribute to Tomáš Masaryk, and to strengthen the connection between the Czech community and the residents of Kibbutz Sarid.
Next year, KKL - JNF together with KKL Czech Republic, will inaugurate an open-air museum that was built by the initiative of the President of KKL Czech Mr. Michal Pěchouček, and an accessible trail in memory of Tomáš Masaryk. This is the largest project of KKL Czech Republic in recent years, initiated by KKL Czech Republic representative in Israel, Mr. Michael Tetuvsik.
As part of the preparations for the inauguration of the museum and accessible trail next year, an official visit and ceremony took place today (Monday). The visit included a ceremony attended by the Chamber of Deputies of the Parliament of the Czech Republic Ms. Markéta Pekarová Adamová, His Excellency Mr. Martin Stropnicky, Ambassador of the Czech Republic in Israel, Davidi Ben Zion, KKL – JNF Board Member Ms. Vera Kovarova, deputy speaker, Michael Kraus KKL – Chez representative, Mr. Robert Kralicek, member of the Chamber of deputies and Mr. Jakub Michalek, member of the chamber of deputies.
Ms. Markéta Pekarová Adamová, The Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies, the Parliament of the Czech Republic: "This is my first visit to Israel, and I thank KKL - JNF for preserving the forest in memory of Tomáš Masaryk. KKL - JNF's green agenda aligns with my personal agenda and the agenda of the Czech Republic, which leads the promotion of environmental quality in the European Union. Just as Czechoslovakia always stood by Israel's side, so does the Czech Republic support these friendly relations".
Davidi Ben Zion, Chairman of the Directorate Committee of the External Relations and Recruitment Division KKL - JNF: "In days when there are anti-Semitic calls against Jews and against the State of Israel, it is touching to stand here with our partners, the Speaker of the Czech Parliament, in a demonstration of solidarity and partnership. The friendship between the Czech Republic and Israel is a long-standing true partnership. The Czech Republic stood by the side of the young State of Israel during challenging times of its establishment and continues to support us today. The importance of this forest is twofold. Firstly, it preserves the climate in Israel and provides the general public with an organized and enjoyable access to natural resources. Secondly, it signifies gratitude towards true friends from around the world as a message to our friend today. KKL - JNF will continue to develop connections with our friends around the world for the benefit of the Israeli public and the preservation of the State of Israel."
Michael Kraus KKL – Chez representative: I have the honor to greet you on behalf of the Czech Committee of the Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael (KKL) on the land of the Masaryk Forest, which symbolizes the friendship between Czechoslovakia and Israel. The Masaryk Forest is one of the oldest forest areas in present-day Israel. The Czech Committee of KKL has decided to collect donations for a project aimed at restoring the forest. We have completed the project with a new access road, parking, and seating areas, all accessible to people with mobility disabilities. There is also a suitable space where Czech citizens visiting Israel can plant their own tree, symbolizing their connection to the environment. On the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the establishment of Czechoslovakia, this project was presented to the public".