Community Tree Nursery Launched in Rosh Ha'ayin to Boost Urban Greening

A new community "tree nursery" was established this week in the Givat Ha'sela neighborhood of Rosh Ha'ayin, as part of the "Around the Tree" initiative. The nursery aims to cultivate young trees and plants in growth containers until they are ready for planting throughout the city.

Over 330 saplings of various species, including Quercus calliprinos, Quercus ithaburensis, Pistacia lentiscus, Ceratonia siliqua, and Eucalyptus, were received for the project. These saplings have been transferred to growth containers, connected to an irrigation system, and will be cared for by a group of local volunteers. Once mature, the trees will be planted in designated areas across Rosh Ha'ayin to expand the community forest, diversify tree species, provide shade in public spaces, and help mitigate urban heat.

The initiative was driven by residents and is a collaboration between the "Good Energy Initiative," the "Eretz-Ir" association, and the Rosh Ha'ayin Municipality. Members of the Givat Ha'sela retirees' club also contributed by allocating space at their club for the nursery and assisting with the planting process.

Mayor Raz Shagi praised the establishment of the nursery, stating that Rosh Ha'ayin aims to plant 1,000 new trees annually. He emphasized that the nursery connects residents, the environment, and the city's future, noting that the growing trees will eventually become part of the urban landscape, offering shade and improving quality of life. The mayor thanked the residents, volunteers, and partners, highlighting it as an example of community power. The municipality will continue to support the project, and interested residents can contact Daphna Rodik, the municipality's sustainability manager, to volunteer.