Israeli Authorities Clash Over Tree's Fate, Leading to Its Demise

A mature cypress tree in Kibbutz Sha'ar Ha'emek, located at the junction of the Jezreel and Zevulun valleys, has died after becoming the subject of a dispute over planned construction. The kibbutz initially sought permission to cut down the tree to make way for a path for Club Car vehicles. The regional forester approved the request, but a kibbutz resident appealed to the chief forester, Dr. Erez Barkai.

Barkai upheld the appeal, citing the tree's significant natural, ecological, and scenic value, and suggested rerouting the path. However, the kibbutz proceeded with construction, encasing the tree and its roots in concrete and damaging its trunk. The "Streets of Trees" association intervened, contacting the chief forester again. While the forester's office contacted the kibbutz requesting they avoid harming the tree, they admitted they lacked enforcement authority.

The tree subsequently died, apparently from the construction work. The kibbutz then applied for a permit to remove the "dead tree," arguing it was now a hazard. The "Streets of Trees" association filed another appeal, claiming the construction caused the tree's death and requested a criminal investigation. Barkai again prohibited the tree's removal pending an investigation, noting that no measures were taken to ensure its preservation during construction.

The article highlights a lack of enforcement power for foresters and a potential gap in criminal investigation authority for tree destruction, as the National Security Minister has not yet authorized agricultural ministry officials for such investigations. The kibbutz denied intentionally causing the tree's death, stating they are committed to maintaining green spaces. The dead tree remains standing, posing a potential hazard until the investigation concludes.