Saving the Jerusalem  Forest

The effort  to save the Jerusalem Forest -  the capital’s “green lung” filtering pollution swept in from the coastal plain - was  our first mission and groundbreaking achievement.

How? In 1996, distressed about the proposed simultaneous construction of a highway and a large scale development project, each of which posed a number of significant environmental threats to the Jerusalem Forest, Har Nof resident and Shomera’s founder, Tamar Gindis, rallied the support of area residents with the aim of saving their communal back yard. A grassroots campaign to advocate for the protection of the Forest gained momentum.  Shomera also coordinated a coalition of organizations: Coalition to Save the Jerusalem Forest. After mapping out vast untapped Forest resources and suggeting alternate plans, the highway was rerouted and the building project was abanonded.

Shomera  worked to preserve the Forest in the face of urbanization and development projects that continue to encroach upon its periphery. We drew residents and visitors into the Forest,  introducing them to its walking paths, ancient structures, to appreciate its vegetation, quiet and beauty. We informed the public about the opportunities provided by this unique Forest-park and to encourage their involvement in its safekeeping.  In addition, Shomera worked with planners and public officials to find ways to safeguard the Forest for the benefit of the public.

Shomera encouraged the development and implementation of planning that integrates the city’s needs with the goal of preserving the Forest. Initiatives such as subterranean burial on Har Hamenuchot allow for the expansion of this cemetery while safeguarding the territory within the Forest. In 2003 we created the Alternative Burial Initiative – Har Menuchot Cemetery (approved at the time by the Chevra Kedisha).  

Shomera continues to seek alternatives to proposed infrastructure and building projects, and encourages professionals to reconsider their assumptions and land usage. Shomera is member of the Forum of Organizations for the Jerusalem Forest. This coalition of organizations and residents is currently focued on mitigating the threat to the forest posed by the proposed interchange of the planned highway 16 .

Envisioning the Jerusalem Forest Promenade
Early on, Shomera recognized the Forest’s untapped potential as an ideal venue for relaxation, recreation and reconnection with nature for residents and visitors alike.  In a significant undertaking we developed the concept of the Jerusalem Forest Promenade (otherwise known as the “Tayelet’) with the aid of Lawrence Halperin, world-renowned landscape architect. This Shomera initiative was embraced by Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael (KKL) and the Jerusalem Municipality, but has not yet been implemented. The Jerusalem Forest Promenade will provide play areas for children and a new attraction for Jerusalemites, while delineating the edge of urban sprawl and its boundary with the green, open spaces beyond.