The Negev Project

I chose Project 2 and Project 8.

Locations of the Projects

Project 2 Menashe Forests

Park, Shemshit Forest, Beit Keshet Forest

Scenic Route, Havurit and Ben

Shemen Forests, Lake Hula Bird

Observatory,

Project 8 Southern

Arava. three kibbutzim:

Lotan, Yahel Ketura.

Be’er Sheva

Purpose of Project 2

The Jewish National Fund (JNF) intends to assist physically challenged people in Israel.

The purpose of the project is to make as many - parks, picnic areas, playgrounds, leisure corners, nature trails, lookouts and other recreational facilities in Israel as wheelchair friendly as possible.

Purpose of Project 8

The JNF is creating recreational, farming, educational and tourism projects.

The aim is to develop the kibbutzim to attract tourists and at the same time to implement - educational, farming, and environmental programs.

Description of Project 2

These are some examples of what has been done in some parks in Israel – The paths and restrooms have been made

accessible to people in wheelchairs. Fitness equipment, target shooting and play

grounds have been built to be enjoyed by disabled people.

Along certain nature paths, there are signs that are in brail so that blind people can read and know about the animals and trees as well.

Description of Project 8

The Lotan Kibbutz is currently developing a bird reserve, among other projects such as an environmental education center and a water recycling system.

The Yahel Kibbutz is building a park and recreational center, as well as a reservoirand a coffee house.

The Ketura Kibbutz is building dormitories and classrooms and is sponsoring student scholarships.

Benefits of Project 2

The benefits of this project is that people with disability challenges can enjoy the beauty of nature, go on picnics and play in play grounds.

The projects have not only been used by paraplegics. Mothers with prams, bike riders and senior citizens have been using the facilities as well.

Benefits of Project 8

There are 4 benefits of the project - Tourism: some of

the kibbutzim attract tourists

Education: the project provides educational facilities

Farming: reservoirs and well prepared soil are made available to farmers

Environmental: many environmental sanctuaries have been created.