Blueprint Negev

JNF’s major initiative to revitalize Israel’s southern region is called Blueprint Negev – a name that describes the far-reaching and visionary plan to increase the area’s population and improve living conditions for all of its inhabitants. The blueprint includes community development, housing, employment, environmental sustainability, agricultural research and development, water treatment, restoration and cachement, tourism and recreation, education and security.

JNF and its partners presented this plan at the Herzliya Conference in 2003. Since then, visible progress is being made on the ground every day. For the latest JNF Blueprint Negev campaign update, click here. JNF doesn’t wait for miracles to happen – we create them. We invite you to see our vital work on your next visit to Israel, and to be a part of history in the making.

Featured project: Be’er Sheva River Park

Sixty years ago, this town had a mere 2,500 residents — a number many people thought would eventually dwindle away. But today, the town is a thriving metropolitan city of almost 200,000 people. JNF is playing a major part in further strengthening this city through the creation of Be’er Sheva River Park; an extensive water, environment and economic development project that will transform the region. Learn more...

Developing New Communities

With overpopulation and high prices in Israel’s central region, young families, young people completing their military service, and retirees are finding it more difficult to find housing. The Negev can play a crucial role in keeping Israelis from leaving the country to find an affordable lifestyle. To learn how JNF and its partners are creating attractive alternatives for these populations in Israel’s southern region, click here.

Strengthening Existing Communities

JNF is committed to improving the lives of the residents of often forgotten communities by building parks, youth centers, contributing to employment opportunities and supporting partners throughout the region. Learn more...

Working with Bedouin Communities

The work of JNF benefits all Israelis. Blueprint Negev looks to bring real change to the lives of the residents of the Negev, including the 160,000 Bedouin, most of who suffer from high unemployment and low levels of education. Learn more about JNF projects in the Bedouin community.

Timna Park

JNF, with the generosity of Avrum Chudnow z”l and his family, has created a must-see tourist attraction in the southern Negev, outside of Eilat. What today is Timna Valley National Park was the oldest center of copper production in the ancient world. Visitors can experience the rich past of this ancient site. Or enjoy the many recreational offerings including biking, hiking through the magnificent natural sandstone structures, paddle boating and camping. Learn more...

Bike and Walking Path to Timna Park

Servicing both residents and tourists, the path will encompass some of the region's most favorable attractions, including the Lotan Bird Watching Site and the Arava Institute experimental orchards.

Blueprint Negev Partnerships

Our partnerships are changing the lives of Negev residents

JNF is involved in the spirit of the Negev through numerous partnerships. JNF's helping hand has been extended to three primary kibbutzim- - Lotan, Yahel and Ketura - in the Southern Arava, the southeastern region of the Negev. JNF is developing educational and recreational tourist projects, preparing the soil for farming, providing agricultural infrastructure and building reservoirs. Balancing the needs of the people of Israel with the fragile environment of the desert is central to our mission in the Negev.

Partnerships include AMIT educational programs, Aleh Negev rehabilitative village for young adults with severe cognitive and physical disabilities, therapeutic riding centers, and more.

• Kibbutz Lotan

• Kibbutz Yahel

• Kibbutz Ketura

• Aleh Negev

• Therapeutic Riding

• AMIT