JNF Operation Carmel Renewal: From Black to Green

Some of my greatest memories are of planting trees in the beautiful forests of Northern Israel.  I was 16 the first I went on a high school program in Israel.  I remember planting trees in memorial to my loved ones in the soil of the Holy Land and how much it meant to me.  I have been back many times and repeated the same experience.  There is no place as beautiful.

That is why I am writing about what happened there last week.  On December 2nd, 2010, the worst fire in Israel’s history broke out in the Carmel Mountains near Haifa in Israel.

Losses have been devastating. At least 42 people have died, 25,000 were evacuated, homes were lost and more than 12,500 acres of forests destroyed. JNF foresters estimate that over 5 million trees were burned. After four days of continuous fighting, the Israeli firefighters succeeded in dousing the flames, but the road to recovery has only begun.The Carmel Forest fire that burned out of control for more than three days was brought under control Sunday in Israel. At least 42 people have died, homes were lost and more than 12,500 acres of forests destroyed. JNF foresters estimate over 5 million trees were burned.

Unfortunately, the road to recovery has just begun. Staying true to its mandate of caring for the needs of the land and people of Israel, JNF Operation Carmel Renewal: From Black to Green will help rebuild and renew the Carmel Forest.

Forest restoration efforts will include erosion prevention, clearing of debris, creation of firebreaks and care of the naturally regenerating woodlands. 

Israel’s firefighters are desperately short on supplies. JNF is the U.S. fundraising arm of Friends of Israel Firefighters. Your dollars will help purchase helmets, hoses, fire extinguishing chemicals and thermal cameras, among other emergency equipment.

Here is how you can help:

- Get your schools and synagogues involved. Download a flyer outlining the urgent needs of Israel’s firefighters.

- Get an update on JNF foresters who worked side by side with Israel’s firefighters to contain the damage.

- Make a donation to JNF to help cultivate and rejuvenate the forests until they are restored to their original beauty.

2) Provide firefighters with much-needed equipment and replace supplies that were depleted during the fight.