Imagine clear waters flowing between green rocks, the sounds of birds, and soft grass under your feet – this is what awaits visitors at Ein Orkha (Jukhader) and Ein Alamein, two of the most stunning springs in the Golan Heights. Now, after months of rehabilitation, the sites are safer and more inviting than ever, welcoming everyone to enjoy a perfect natural experience.
The renovation is part of a larger project aimed at rehabilitating additional springs in the area while preserving the sensitive ecosystem. The work, carried out by the Kinneret Drainage and Streams Authority and the Golan Regional Council, is funded by the Israel Land Authority’s Open Spaces Fund. The total project budget exceeds NIS 3 million.
Between Preservation and Accessibility
The project seeks to balance two needs: On one hand, preserving the springs’ sensitive natural environment, and on the other, making them accessible to the general public. The Golan Heights is home to hundreds of springs that provide a habitat for vegetation, amphibians, and wildlife, while also attracting many visitors.
The work included blocking vehicle access to water sources to prevent trampling of vegetation, removing invasive plants that harm the ecological balance, and planting native species in their place. Fences were erected, and shelters were built to keep livestock away from the springs.
New Infrastructure for Visitors
Alongside conservation efforts, tourism development work was also carried out: Paving organized access roads, establishing designated parking areas, developing walking and cycling trails, creating wading pools, and restoring the original spring structures. Informational signage and waste disposal systems were also installed.
Uri Kelner, head of the Golan Regional Council, explains that “preserving the open spaces in the Golan is both a value and an economic engine.” According to him, high-quality tourism in the area can strengthen the local economy while protecting nature.
Tzvika Slutzky, CEO of the Kinneret Drainage and Streams Authority, stated that the choice of springs for investment was based on their ecological sensitivity and popularity among visitors.
In the next phase of the project, rehabilitation of Ein Tut spring and additional springs in the area will be carried out. Planning authorities emphasize that they are careful to preserve the spring sources as conservation points, while the pools and areas visited by the public are developed for accessibility.
The project is being implemented in collaboration with the Nature and Parks Authority, the Antiquities Authority, and the Governmental Tourism Company.