Nahal HaShofet, one of central Israel's most popular outdoor destinations, reopened this week after extensive renovations costing 25 million shekels. The site in Ramat Menashe Park closed in 2020 due to flooding damage.
As part of the facelift, the KKL-JNF constructed circular access paths, and stream bridges, and made the entire area accessible to people with disabilities. The nature area sees millions visit annually for its forests, open spaces, springs, and streams. Heavy rains in 2020 damaged infrastructure. KKL-JNF renovated the stream, enhanced accessibility with disabled trails, benches, viewpoints and signage.
Offering hiking, picnicking, wildflowers and archaeology, the park models KKL-JNF's cooperation with Megiddo Regional Council. It will have new visitor management by KKL-JNF.
Yiftah Ovadia Luski, KKL-JNF Chairwoman, said, "This is one of the important projects carried out by KKL-JNF in recent years. Following the destruction, comprehensive restoration of the stream was required. As part of the accessibility trend of KKL-JNF sites, the restoration work focused on site accessibility. Nahal HaShofet is a special gem in the heart of the forest that attracts crowds of hikers. The restoration allows all Israelis to fully enjoy and experience at the stream. It's a beautiful green view in the Menashe area, and we are delighted to arrive at the moment of opening, especially with the arrival of spring at its peak. We invite the public to come, enjoy, and of course, preserve nature."
