The fires, which burned nearly 18,500 dunams (about 4,570 acres), spread under extreme weather conditions that included temperatures reaching 40°C, humidity dropping below 10%, and strong winds of up to 60 km/h. The flames advanced at speeds of up to 1.5 km per hour reflecting the intensity of the event, with the most severe damage recorded in the pine and eucalyptus forests, while orchards and low vegetation were less affected.
Around 80% of the affected area is managed by KKL-JNF, which began restoration efforts only days after the fires. In the initial phase, burned trees were cleared from main areas, including roads and parking areas, across approximately 3,000 dunams. In addition, KKL-JNF crews also removed safety hazards along the Burma Road and in Eshtaol Forest parking areas, covering about 1,300 dunams.
The second phase of restoration has begun, expanding reparations to service roads and secondary trails, covering an additional 3,000 dunams. At the same time, natural recovery is already underway, with vegetation, shrubs, and even new tree seedlings beginning to appear, signaling the local ecosystem’s resilience.
Ayalon-Canada Park immediately after the wildfire. Photo: Bonnie Scheinman, KKL-JNF Photo Archive
Ayalon-Canada Park today. Photo: Bonnie Scheinman, KKL-JNF Photo Archive
The restoration process goes beyond clearing and cleaning. KKL-JNF plans to manage the affected areas in the coming years through careful ecological monitoring and controlled grazing for about three years, allowing vegetation to reestablish itself. Any decisions on replanting will be made only after in-depth surveys, as nature can often recover on its own.
Restoring the parks and forests is a priority for KKL-JNF, as they offer a unique combination of nature, landscapes, and heritage in the heart of Israel. As part of its restoration efforts, KKL-JNF is rebuilding infrastructure, preserving environmental values, and improving access in the parks, and helping restore them as leading destinations for recreation and outdoor activities.
Eshtaol Forest immediately after the wildfire. Photo: Bonnie Scheinman, KKL-JNF Photo Archive
Eshtaol Forest today. Photo: Bonnie Scheinman, KKL-JNF Photo Archive
KKL-JNF Chairman Eyal Ostrinsky said:
“Last year’s fires were among the most severe we’ve experienced, but they also remind us of the need for continued investment in forest rehabilitation. We are committed not only to restoring what was damaged, but also to building more resilient forests for the future. Nature is already showing its strength, and we are here to support it and ensure it endures for generations to come.”
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