Tecnologías

Conversion of conventional monoculture farmland into a food forest [Israel]

Creación: 27/10/2025 08:26
Actualización: 11/11/2025 15:06
Compilador: Tom Cohen
Editor: –
Revisores: William Critchley, Rima Mekdaschi Studer

Bethlehem of Galilee Food Forest

technologies_7674 - Israel

Visualizar secciones

Expandir todo

Completado: 90%

1. Información general

1.2 Detalles de contacto de las personas de referencia e instituciones involucradas en la evaluación y la documentación de la Tecnología

Persona(s) de referencia clave

Especialista MST:

Tom Cohen

Especialista MST:

Brook Anna

University of Haifa

Israel

usuario de la tierra:

Bethlehem of Galilee Food Forest

Israel

Nombre de la(s) institución(es) que facilitaron la documentación/ evaluación de la Tecnología (si fuera relevante)

University of Haifa (uhaifa)

1.3 Condiciones referidas al uso de datos documentados mediante WOCAT

El compilador y la/s persona(s) de referencia claves aceptan las condiciones acerca del uso de los datos documentados mediante WOCAT:

Sí

1.4 Declaración de la sostenibilidad de la Tecnología descrita

¿La Tecnología aquí descrita resulta problemática en relación a la degradación de la tierra, de tal forma que no puede considerársela una tecnología sostenible para el manejo de la tierra?

Comentarios:

This intervention is explicitly designed to reverse and restore previously degraded soils (monoculture exhaustion, fertility decline, low biodiversity).

2. Descripción de la Tecnología MST

2.1 Breve descripción de la Tecnología

Definición de la Tecnología:

Converting conventional monoculture farmland into a food forest-based agroforestry system restores soil health, increases vegetation cover, enhances biodiversity while diversifying production. The intervention improves soil organic matter and ecological resilience through multi-storey planting, reduced soil disturbance, and nature-based land management.

2.2 Descripción detallada de la Tecnología

Descripción:

The development of a “food forest” was in response to visible soil degradation caused by years of wheat-based monoculture in Bethlehem of Galilee. The previous land use consisted of annual wheat production, tractor-powered deep ploughing, and routine use of herbicides and pesticides. Over time, these practices depleted soil organic matter, reduced microbial activity, and increased vulnerability to erosion, compaction, and moisture loss. The current food forest, covering approximately 1.5 acres (0.6 hectare), represents a transformative shift from this intensive, extractive system toward a sustainable, perennial, multi-strata agroforestry model.
The primary purpose of this site is research and education. It is not intended to be a commercial enterprise, but to demonstrate principles and practices of sustainable land management. The income generated is not from crops but from research grants, workshops and community activities.
The site has been under continuous restoration for approximately eight years, during which it has gradually developed into a multi-layered food forest. The upper canopy includes species such as ficus, tipa, mulberry, pecan, plane trees, and nitrogen-fixing “ice-cream bean” (Inga edulis), which together generate shade, biomass, and structural diversity. The productive mid-storey contains fruit-bearing species including lemon, plum, pomegranate, avocado, and additional deciduous trees. Beneath these layers, aromatic shrubs such as lavender and rosemary provide perennial cover, habitat complexity, and year-round biomass production. A dedicated lower layer supports seasonal vegetables: carrots, radishes, turnips, lettuces and other greens, interplanted within tree alleys and cultivated using organic methods.
Production follows a diversified model typical of food forests. Tree crops currently yield modest but consistent quantities of lemons, plums, mulberries, pomegranates, and herbs, primarily for consumption by visitors, volunteers, and workers on site rather than large-scale commercial sale. The adjoining vegetable-growing area produces additional crops for small-scale marketing, providing a modest revenue stream while maintaining ecological integrity. As the system is still maturing, productive output is expected to increase over the coming years.
The project is privately managed by a couple in their thirties, who own and oversee all aspects of the site. Labour requirements were most intensive during the establishment phase of planting, mulching, earth-shaping, and infrastructure setup. As the food forest enters a more stable successional stage, labour demands have gradually decreased, with current activities centred on pruning, biomass recycling, vegetable cultivation, and occasional enrichment planting. No chemical inputs are applied at any stage.
Irrigation was originally supported by a drip system installed to establish young trees and early perennial layers. Today, irrigation needs have significantly decreased due to higher soil organic matter, increased shade, and improved microclimate regulation. Drip irrigation is now used only minimally and mainly within the annual vegetable plots, while most perennial components rely primarily on natural rainfall.
Overall, this food forest demonstrates a replicable nature-based solution for Mediterranean environments, showcasing how degraded wheat monoculture fields can be restored into resilient, biodiverse, and ecologically functional agroforestry systems. The long-term transition highlights substantial gains in soil health, water retention, and landscape diversity, while supporting small-scale production and community-oriented engagement.

2.3 Fotografías de la Tecnología

Galería de medios

2.5 País/ región/ lugares donde la Tecnología fue aplicada y que se hallan comprendidos por esta evaluación

País:

Israel

Región/ Estado/ Provincia:

Galilee

Especifique más el lugar :

Bethlehem of Galilee

Especifique la difusión de la Tecnología:

distribuida parejamente sobre un área

Si la Tecnología se halla difundida homogéneamente a lo largo de un área, especifique el área que cubre (en km2):

0,01

Si se desconoce el área precisa, indique el área aproximada cubierta:

< 0.1 km2 (10 ha)

¿El/los sitio(s) de la Tecnología se ubica(n) en un área de protección permanente?

2.6 Fecha de la implementación

Indique año de implementación:

2017

Si no se conoce el año preciso, indique la fecha aproximada:

hace menos de 10 años (recientemente)

2.7 Introducción de la Tecnología

Especifique cómo se introdujo la Tecnología:

mediante la innovación de usuarios de tierras
durante experimentos/ investigación
mediante proyectos/ intervenciones externas

Comentarios (tipo de proyecto, etc.):

The landowners developed the site as part of a holistic environmental vision and continue to refine it through ongoing learning, experimentation, and renewal. They actively initiate collaborations with research institutions in Israel and abroad to support long-term monitoring of the site and to advance the food-forest practice within a scientific and evidence-based framework.

3. Clasificación de la Tecnología MST

3.1 Propósito(s) principal(es) de la Tecnología MST

reducir, prevenir, restaurar la degradación de la tierra
conservar el ecosistema
preservar/ mejorar biodiversidad
adaptarse al cambio climático/ extremos climáticos y sus impactos
crear impacto social benéfico

3.2 Tipo(s) actuales de uso de la tierra donde se aplica la Tecnología

Mezcla de tipos de uso de tierras dentro de la misma unidad de tierras: :

Sí

Especifique el uso combinado de tierras (cultivos/ pastoreo/ árboles):

Agroforestería

Tierras cultivadas

Cosecha anual
Cosecha de árboles y arbustos

Cosechas anuales - Especifique cultivos:

leguminosas y legumbres - arvejas
plantas y hierbas medicinales/ aromáticas/ plaguicidas
vegetales - verdura de hojas verdes (ensaladas, repollo, espinaca, otros)
vegetales - vegetales de raíz (zanahorias, cebollas, remolachas, otros)

Cultivos de matorrales y arbustos - Especifique cultivos:

avocado
cítricos
higos
frutas de pepita (manzanas, peras, membrillo, etc.)
frutas de hueso (durazno, albaricoque, cerezos, ciruelas, etc)
frutos secos (castañas, pistachos, nuez, almendras, etc.)

Número de temporadas de cultivo por año:

Especifique:

Up to three for the fastest growing crops

¿Se practica el intercultivo?

Sí

Si respondió que sí, especifique qué cultivos son intercultivados:

The whole farm forest embodies intercropping throughout its multi-strata structure

¿Se practica la rotación de cultivos?

Sí

Si fuera el caso, especifique :

Various annual crops as described above - and an adaptive succession strategy

Bosques

Plantación de árboles, reforestación

Plantación de árboles, reforestación: Especifique el origen y la composición de las especies:

Variedades mixtas

tipo de plantación de árboles, reforestación:

plantación de bosque continental templado

Ficus, Tipu (Tipuana tipu), Plane tree (Platanus spp.), Sissoo (Dalbergia sissoo), Ice-cream bean

¿Los árboles especificados son deciduos o imperecederos?

mixto deciduo/ imperecedero

Productos y servicios:

Frutos y nueces
Otros productos forestales
Conservación/ Protección de la naturaleza
Recreación/ turismo

3.3 ¿Cambió el uso de tierras debido a la implementación de la Tecnología?

¿Cambió el uso de tierras debido a la implementación de la Tecnología?

Sí (Por favor responda las preguntas de abajo referidas al uso de la tierra antes de implementar la Tecnología)

Mezcla de tipos de uso de tierras dentro de la misma unidad de tierras: :

Tierras cultivadas

Cosecha anual

Cosechas anuales - Especifique cultivos:

cereales - trigo (verano)

Sistema anual de cultivo:

Trigo o rotación similar con heno/pastizal

¿Se practica el intercultivo?

¿Se practica la rotación de cultivos?

Sí

Si fuera el caso, especifique :

Occasionally (see above)

3.4 Provisión de agua

Provisión de agua para la tierra donde se aplica la Tecnología:

mixta de secano – irrigada

Comentarios:

Irrigation was originally supported by a drip system installed to establish young trees and early perennial layers. Today, irrigation needs have significantly decreased due to higher soil organic matter, increased shade, and improved microclimate regulation. Drip irrigation is now used only minimally and mainly within the annual vegetable plots, while most perennial components rely primarily on natural rainfall.

3.5 Grupo MST al que pertenece la Tecnología

agroforestería
cobertura de suelo/ vegetal mejorada
perturbación mínima del suelo

3.6 Medidas MST que componen la Tecnología

medidas vegetativas

V1: Cubierta de árboles y arbustos
V2: Pastos y plantas herbáceas perennes

medidas de manejo

M1: Cambio de tipo de uso de la tierra
M2: Cambio de gestión/ nivel de intensidad
M5: Control/ cambio de composición de las especies

3.7 Principales tipos de degradación de la tierra encarados con la Tecnología

erosión de suelos por agua

Wt: pérdida de capa arable/ erosión de la superficie

deterioro químico del suelo

Cn: reducción de la fertilidad y contenido reducido de la materia orgánica del suelo (no ocasionados por la erosión)
Cs: salinización/ alcalinización

deterioro físico del suelo

Pc: compactación
Pi: sellado de suelo
Ps: hundimiento de suelos orgánicos, asentamiento del suelo

degradación biológica

Bc: reducción de la cobertura vegetal del suelo
Bh: pérdida de hábitats
Bq: reducción de la cantidad/ biomasa
Bs: reducción en la calidad y composición/ diversidad de las especies

Comentarios:

For this pilot, the technology primarily addresses soil degradation (chemical + physical + biological) that resulted from long-term monoculture and herbicide-based management.

3.8 Prevención, reducción o restauración de la degradación de la tierra

Especifique la meta de la Tecnología con relación a la degradación de la tierra:

reducir la degradación de la tierra
restaurar/ rehabilitar tierra severamente degradada

4. Especificaciones técnicas, actividades de implementación, insumos y costos

4.1 Dibujo técnico de la Tecnología

Especificaciones técnicas (relacionadas al dibujo técnico):

The general site plan (above) illustrates the full spatial organization of the food forest, structured into clearly defined functional zones that together create a balanced ecological and productive landscape (Note: original plan reproduced with captions in Hebrew). The outer perimeter consists of a protective tree belt designed to provide wind buffering, habitat continuity, and microclimate regulation. Inside this perimeter lies a series of densely planted clusters of mixed-species trees and support plants, forming the core forested zones of the design. These clusters contain a combination of canopy species, fruit trees, nitrogen-fixing support species, and understory elements arranged to promote ecological interactions and long-term resilience. Several open areas are intentionally integrated throughout the site, providing space for circulation, light penetration, future expansion, and community activities. The plan also includes a designated agricultural strip for annual vegetable production, strategically placed to benefit from the moderated microclimate created by the surrounding tree layers. Additional functional elements such as a compost area, shaded seating or gathering points, and access paths appear throughout the design, supporting both maintenance and educational use. Overall, the plan demonstrates a holistic integration of productive, ecological, and social spaces, emphasizing diversity, spatial layering, and regenerative land-use principles.

Autor:

Nitzan Betzer

Fecha:

01/06/2017

Especificaciones técnicas (relacionadas al dibujo técnico):

The planting plan (below) illustrates the full structural design of the food forest, showing a diverse mixture of perennial species arranged according to ecological function and spatial layout (Note: original plan reproduced with captions in Hebrew). Each color on the map represents a different botanical or functional category. The green circles indicate the major canopy and shade-providing trees that form the upper layer of the system. The red circles mark the fruit-bearing species distributed across the plot, including pomegranate, avocado, fig, loquat, mango, mulberry and others, representing the primary productive component of the mid-storey. The orange circles correspond to nitrogen-fixing trees and shrubs, strategically positioned to enrich soil fertility and support surrounding species through natural nutrient cycling. The yellow circles mark ornamental or habitat-supporting species that enhance biodiversity, microclimate regulation and ecological resilience. Together, these categories create a multi-layered mosaic in which canopy, fruit, support species and habitat elements interweave across the site. The design also includes designated open areas, compost space, perimeter rows and an agricultural strip for annual vegetables, demonstrating an intentional balance between ecological restoration, food production and functional zoning.

Autor:

Nitzan Betzer

Fecha:

01/06/2017

4.2 Información general sobre el cálculo de insumos y costos

Especifique cómo se calcularon los costos e insumos:

por área de Tecnología

Indique tamaño y unidad de área:

1.5 acres

Si usa una unidad de área local, indique el factor de conversión a una hectárea (ej. 1 ha = 2.47 acres): 1 ha =:

1 acre = 0.4 hectares

Especifique la moneda usada para calcular costos:

Indique el costo promedio del salario de trabajo contratado por día:

158.2

4.3 Actividades de establecimiento

	Actividad	Momento (estación)
1.	Initial site assessment and mapping of soil condition and exposure	Late winter / early spring
2.	Discontinuation of tillage and herbicide applications	Immediately prior to establishment
3.	Soil preparation without deep tillage (light loosening, mulching base layer)	Early spring
4.	Planting of trees in primary layout (skeleton layer)	Spring
5.	Planting of shrubs and understory companion species	Late spring / early summer
6.	Installation of organic mulch cover to protect soil and retain moisture	After planting (early summer)
7.	Enrichment planting / filling gaps with additional groundcover species	Late summer / following spring
8.	Protection of young trees/shrubs if needed (guards, shading, temporary watering)	First growing season
9.	Establishment of biomass cycling (chop-and-drop, composting on-site)	After vegetation takes root
10.	Transition into maintenance phase (reduced intervention, natural succession)	Once canopy begins forming

4.4 Costos e insumos necesarios para el establecimiento

	Especifique insumo	Unidad	Cantidad	Costos por unidad	Costos totales por insumo	% de los costos cubiertos por los usuarios de las tierras
Mano de obra	Manual labour	Person-days	139,0	158,2	21989,8	100,0
Equipo	Tools and maintenance equipment		1,0	5000,0	5000,0	100,0
Equipo	Tractor (for construction)		1,0	7200,0	7200,0	100,0
Material para plantas	Seedlings, cuttings, and seeds		1,0	14000,0	14000,0	100,0
Fertilizantes y biocidas	Compost		1,0	10500,0	10500,0	100,0
Material de construcción	Irrigation system		1,0	14500,0	14500,0	100,0
Material de construcción	Pruned biomass mulch		1,0	6500,0	6500,0	100,0
Costos totales para establecer la Tecnología					79689,8
Costos totales para establecer la Tecnología en USD					79689,8

Si el usuario de la tierra no cubrió el 100% de los costos, indique quién financió el resto del costo:

Land user bore all costs: but note the primary purpose of this site is research and education. It is not intended to be a commercial enterprise, but to demonstrate principles and practices of sustainable land management. The income generated is not from crops but from research grants, workshops and community activities.

Comentarios:

No chemical fertilizers or pesticides are used; fertilization is based solely on compost

4.5 Actividades de establecimiento/ recurrentes

	Actividad	Momento/ frequencia
1.	Mulching with organic biomass (leaf litter, pruning residues, woodchips, etc.)	2–3 times per year, mainly after rainy season and mid-summer
2.	Selective pruning of trees and shrubs to maintain structure and light balance	Annually / as needed (late winter or autumn)
3.	Enrichment planting and succession planting of understorey species	Seasonally, as ecosystem matures or gaps appear
4.	Weeding by ecological suppression (groundcover strengthening) rather than removal	Continuous, low-intensity maintenance
5.	Soil moisture conservation (biomass renewal / occasional supportive watering in drought years)	Seasonally during dry periods (as needed)
6.	Monitoring soil condition and vegetation health	Ongoing, at least once per season
7.	Replacement of failed or weak young plants	Annually during early growth seasons
8.	Maintenance of biodiversity guilds / companion planting structure	Continuous, adaptive to natural succession

4.6 Costos e insumos necesarios para actividades de mantenimiento/ recurrentes (por año)

	Especifique insumo	Unidad	Cantidad	Costos por unidad	Costos totales por insumo	% de los costos cubiertos por los usuarios de las tierras
Mano de obra	Manual labour	Person-days	110,0	158,2	17402,0	100,0
Equipo	Equipment renewal and maintenance		1,0	5000,0	5000,0	100,0
Material para plantas	Cuttings and seeds		1,0	4000,0	4000,0	100,0
Otros	Water bills		1,0	5500,0	5500,0	100,0
Otros	Products selling kits		1,0	2000,0	2000,0	100,0
Indique los costos totales para mantenecer la Tecnología					33902,0
Costos totales para mantener la Tecnología en USD					33902,0

Comentarios:

The establishment costs refer to the initial food forest area of approximately 1.5 acres, while the annual maintenance costs refer to the forest in its current state, covering about 3 acres. Land user bore all costs: but note that the primary purpose of this site is research and education. It is not intended to be a commercial enterprise, but to demonstrate principles and practices of sustainable land management. The income generated is not from crops but from research grants, workshops and community activities.

4.7 Factores más determinantes que afectan los costos:

Describa los factores más determinantes que afectan los costos:

The most significant cost factor, both during establishment and ongoing maintenance, is labour. All work is carried out manually using hand tools, and apart from the initial establishment phase, no heavy machinery is used

5. Entorno natural y humano

5.1 Clima

Lluvia anual

< 250 mm
251-500 mm
501-750 mm
751-1,000 mm
1,001-1,500 mm
1,501-2,000 mm
2,001-3,000 mm
3,001-4,000 mm
> 4,000 mm

Indique el nombre de la estación metereológica de referencia considerada:

The climatic information for the food forest site was obtained from two sources: official data provided by the Israel Meteorological Service (IMS) and on-site measurements collected through a dedicated rain gauge installed as part of the research infrastructure. Together, these sources provide accurate local rainfall and climate monitoring for the plot.

Zona agroclimática

Sub-húmeda

5.2 Topografía

Pendientes en promedio:

plana (0-2 %)
ligera (3-5%)
moderada (6-10%)
ondulada (11-15%)
accidentada (16-30%)
empinada (31-60%)
muy empinada (>60%)

Formaciones telúricas:

meseta/ planicies
cordilleras
laderas montañosas
laderas de cerro
pies de monte
fondo del valle

Zona altitudinal:

0-100 m s.n.m.
101-500 m s.n.m.
501-1,000 m s.n.m
1,001-1,500 m s.n.m
1,501-2,000 m s.n.m
2,001-2,500 m s.n.m
2,501-3,000 m s.n.m
3,001-4,000 m s.n.m
> 4,000 m s.n.m

Indique si la Tecnología se aplica específicamente en:

no relevante

5.3 Suelos

Profundidad promedio del suelo:

muy superficial (0-20 cm)
superficial (21-50 cm)
moderadamente profunda (51-80 cm)
profunda (81-120 cm)
muy profunda (>120 cm)

Textura del suelo (capa arable):

mediana (limosa)

Textura del suelo (> 20 cm debajo de la superficie):

mediana (limosa)

Materia orgánica de capa arable:

baja (<1%)

5.4 Disponibilidad y calidad de agua

Agua subterránea:

5-50 m

Disponibilidad de aguas superficiales:

pobre/ ninguna

Calidad de agua (sin tratar):

solo para uso agrícola (irrigación)

La calidad de agua se refiere a:

agua subterránea y superficial

¿La salinidad del agua es un problema?

¿Se está llevando a cabo la inundación del área? :

5.5 Biodiversidad

Diversidad de especies:

baja

Diversidad de hábitats:

baja

Comentarios y especificaciones adicionales sobre biodiversidad:

Both species diversity and habitat diversity have transformed due to the establishment of the food forest, and are now both high. This is a very agrobiodiverse system.

5.6 Las características de los usuarios de la tierra que aplican la Tecnología

Sedentario o nómada:

Sedentario

Orientación del mercado del sistema de producción:

subsistencia (autoprovisionamiento)

Ingresos no agrarios:

> 50% de todo el ingreso

Nivel relativo de riqueza:

promedio

Individuos o grupos:

individual/ doméstico

Nivel de mecanización:

trabajo manual

Género:

mujeres
hombres

Edad de los usuarios de la tierra:

personas de mediana edad

5.7 Área promedio de la tierra usada por usuarios de tierra que aplican la Tecnología

< 0.5 ha
0.5-1 ha
1-2 ha
2-5 ha
5-15 ha
15-50 ha
50-100 ha
100-500 ha
500-1,000 ha
1,000-10,000 ha
> 10,000 ha

¿Esto se considera de pequeña, mediana o gran escala (refiriéndose al contexto local)?

pequeña escala

Comentarios:

The land user manages approximately 2–5 hectares in total, of which a portion is undergoing transition into a food forest system; this is considered small-scale in the local agricultural context

5.8 Tenencia de tierra, uso de tierra y derechos de uso de agua

Tenencia de tierra:

individual, con título

Derechos de uso de tierra:

individual

Derechos de uso de agua:

individual

¿Los derechos del uso de la tierra se basan en un sistema legal tradicional?

5.9 Acceso a servicios e infraestructura

salud:

pobre
moderado
bueno

educación:

pobre
moderado
bueno

asistencia técnica:

pobre
moderado
bueno

empleo (ej. fuera de la granja):

pobre
moderado
bueno

mercados:

pobre
moderado
bueno

energía:

pobre
moderado
bueno

caminos y transporte:

pobre
moderado
bueno

agua potable y saneamiento:

pobre
moderado
bueno

servicios financieros:

pobre
moderado
bueno

6. Impactos y comentarios para concluir

6.1 Impactos in situ demostrados por la Tecnología

Impactos socioeconómicos

Ingreso y costos

gastos en insumos agrícolas

incrementó

disminuyó

Comentarios/ especifique:

Agricultural input expenses are very limited in this system. Since the site operates as a food forest rather than a conventional agricultural plot, nearly no external inputs are purchased. The management relies on ecological processes, on-site biomass, mulching, and manual care. Inputs are therefore minimal and do not reflect commercial-scale agricultural expenditure.

diversidad de fuentes de ingreso

disminuyó

incrementó

Comentarios/ especifique:

The plot was originally managed as a monoculture field that depended economically on agricultural production. Today, the food forest operates on a completely different model: its income is derived primarily from research activities, educational programs, workshops, and community engagement. Economic sustainability is no longer based on agricultural yield, as crop production is not the financial foundation of the site anymore.

The food forest contributes to improved SLM and land-degradation knowledge by serving as a living demonstration site where restoration practices can be observed, tested, and monitored over time. It provides real-world evidence on soil recovery, biodiversity enhancement, and regenerative management, supporting both scientific research and practical learning for land users, students, and professionals.

Impactos ecológicos

Ciclo de agua/ escurrimiento de sedimento

escurrimiento superficial

incrementó

disminuyó

Comentarios/ especifique:

The food forest reduces surface runoff through continuous vegetative cover, increased soil organic matter, and improved infiltration. The multi-layered perennial structure slows water movement, stabilizes the soil, and enhances water absorption, thereby decreasing erosion risk and minimizing overland flow during rainfall events.

evaporación

incrementó

disminuyó

Comentarios/ especifique:

The food forest reduces soil surface evaporation through dense vegetative cover, shading from the multi-layered canopy, and increased soil organic matter. Mulching and groundcover plants further protect the soil surface, lowering temperatures at ground level and limiting direct exposure to sun and wind, which significantly decreases soil surface evaporative water loss.

The food forest increases soil organic matter and below-ground carbon through continuous inputs of leaf litter, root biomass, and decomposing mulch. The perennial, multi-layered vegetation system supports sustained carbon incorporation into the soil, while reduced disturbance and enhanced microbial activity further promote long-term carbon storage and soil organic matter accumulation.

The food forest increases habitat diversity by creating a multi-layered structure that supports varied ecological niches. The combination of canopy trees, understory species, shrubs, groundcovers, open areas, and water features provides habitats for a wide range of insects, birds, and small wildlife. This structural and functional diversity replaces the uniform habitat of the former monoculture and greatly enhances overall ecosystem complexity.

Reducción de riesgos de desastres y riesgos climáticos

emisión de carbono y gases de invernadero

incrementó

disminuyó

Comentarios/ especifique:

The food forest helps reduce carbon and greenhouse gas emissions by minimizing external inputs, eliminating chemical fertilizers, and avoiding soil disturbance that would otherwise release stored carbon. The perennial vegetation continuously sequesters carbon in both biomass and soil, while the system’s low-energy, regenerative management reduces emissions associated with conventional agricultural practices.

Especifique la evaluación de los impactos en el sitio (mediciones):

The assessment of on-site impacts combines both social-cultural learning processes and quantitative biophysical measurements. On the social, cultural, and economic side, the site hosts workshops, guided learning sessions, and community activities designed to understand the meaning, role, and value of the food forest for local stakeholders. These engagements provide qualitative insights into cultural benefits, community strengthening, and the educational function of the place. For the more tangible biophysical parameters – soil health, vegetation condition, biodiversity, and ecological recovery – the monitoring relies on analytical laboratory tests and systematic long-term sampling. Soil samples collected at different stages of the establishment process were analyzed for organic matter, nutrients, structure, and biological activity, providing a clear picture of soil improvement over time. In addition, the site is monitored through remote-sensing-based indicators developed in collaboration with the University of Haifa, which track temporal changes in vegetation cover, biomass, soil moisture proxies, and overall ecological function. Together, these qualitative and quantitative assessments offer a comprehensive understanding of the site’s development, documenting both the ecological restoration underway and the parallel social and educational impacts generated by the food forest.

6.2 Impactos fuera del sitio demostrados por la Tecnología

impacto de gases de invernadero

incrementó

disminuyó

Comentarios/ especifique:

Using IPCC Tier-1 methods (2006 Guidelines with the 2019 Refinement), we estimate annual removals from (i) mineral soil organic carbon (SOC) gains after conversion from tilled wheat to multistrata agroforestry, and (ii) incremental woody biomass growth. Mediterranean evidence suggests SOC increases on managed woody systems of ~0.2–1.0 t C ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹, while biomass increments in multistrata/silvo-arable agroforestry typically add ~0.8–2.5 t C ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹ in the establishment decades; together this yields ~1.0–3.5 t C ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹, i.e., ≈ 3.7–13 tCO₂e ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹ (3.67 conversion). For reporting we adopt the conservative lower bound until our paired soil cores (baseline vs. years 2/5/8) and tree allometry—supported by Sentinel-2 time-series—finish quantifying site-specific change. Sources: IPCC 2006/2019 AFOLU guidance; AR6 WGIII (AFOLU); Mediterranean meta-analyses of SOC/biomass in woody systems and agroforestry.

Especifique la evaluación de los impactos fuera del emplazamiento (medidas):

Off-site impacts were assessed through a combination of qualitative and quantitative indicators that capture how the food-forest system influences the surrounding landscape and community beyond the plot boundaries. Hydrological effects were inferred from reduced surface runoff and improved infiltration within the site, which collectively lower downstream sedimentation and erosion risks; these implications were evaluated using rainfall records, soil-moisture trends, and comparison of runoff behavior between the restored area and adjacent conventionally managed fields. Vegetation development and canopy expansion – monitored through Sentinel-2 time-series and UAV imagery – provide additional evidence of landscape-scale improvements such as enhanced microclimatic buffering and habitat connectivity. Social and cultural off-site impacts were evaluated through participation in workshops, educational programs, and community events, which extend ecological knowledge and stewardship beyond the site itself. Together, these measurements and observations offer a coherent picture of how the food forest contributes to broader environmental and community benefits outside its physical boundaries.

6.3 Exposición y sensibilidad de la Tecnología al cambio climático gradual y a extremos relacionados al clima/ desastres (desde la percepción de los usuarios de tierras)

Cambio climático gradual

	Estación	Incremento o reducción	¿Cómo es que la tecnología soporta esto?
temperatura anual		incrementó	moderadamente
lluvia anual		disminuyó	bien

Extremos (desastres) relacionados al clima

Desastres climatológicos:

	¿Cómo es que la tecnología soporta esto?
tormenta de lluvia local	moderadamente

Desastres climatológicos

	¿Cómo es que la tecnología soporta esto?
ola de calor	bien
sequía	bien

6.4 Análisis costo-beneficio

¿Cómo se comparan los beneficios con los costos de establecimiento (desde la perspectiva de los usuarios de tierra)?

Ingresos a corto plazo:

ligeramente negativo

Ingresos a largo plazo:

positivo

¿Cómo se comparan los beneficios con los costos de mantenimiento/ recurrentes (desde la perspectiva de los usuarios de tierra)?

Ingresos a corto plazo:

neutral/ balanceado

Ingresos a largo plazo:

positivo

Comentarios:

The slightly negative short-term balance does not reflect external subsidies but rather the intentional design and purpose of the site. The food forest is not a commercial enterprise and was never intended to generate profit from agricultural production. Its primary function is research, education, and community engagement, and therefore its revenues come from workshops, collaborations, and research grants rather than crop sales. The short-term financial deficit simply reflects the fact that the landowners invest in a long-term ecological and educational project whose value is measured in environmental and social outcomes rather than immediate economic returns. It should not be interpreted as dependence on agricultural subsidies or market-based support.

6.5 Adopción de la Tecnología

casos individuales / experimentales

Si tiene la información disponible, cuantifique (número de hogares y/o área cubierta):

One household: 1.5 acres

De todos quienes adoptaron la Tecnología, ¿cuántos lo hicieron espontáneamente, por ej. sin recibir nada de incentivos/ materiales:

0-10%

6.6 Adaptación

¿La tecnología fue modificada recientemente para adaptarse a las condiciones cambiantes?

Sí

Si fuera así, indique a qué condiciones cambiantes se adaptó:

cambios climáticos / extremos

Especifique la adaptación de la Tecnología (diseño, material/ especies, etc.):

The design and composition of the food forest are continuously adapted as the system matures and as new insights emerge from ongoing learning by the landowners and collaborating researchers. Species selection, spatial arrangement, and management practices have been refined over time in response to observed ecological dynamics - such as canopy development, soil improvement, microclimatic changes, and species performance. Additional trees, shrubs, and groundcovers have been introduced to enhance diversity, strengthen ecological functions, and address emerging needs such as shade regulation, soil enrichment, or habitat creation. This adaptive approach reflects the core principle of the technology: the food forest is a living system that evolves through observation, experimentation, and evidence-based adjustments informed by both practical experience and scientific collaboration.

6.7 Fuerzas/ ventajas/ oportunidades de la Tecnología

Fuerzas/ ventajas/ oportunidades desde la perspectiva del usuario de la tierra
Restores soil fertility and structure without relying on chemicals and reduces weed pressure naturally through permanent groundcover
Improves moisture retention and reduces drought stress over time and supports biodiversity and creates a healthier farm ecosystem
Transformational: turns degraded land into a productive long-term asset

Fuerzas/ ventajas/ oportunidades desde la perspectiva del compilador o de otra persona de referencia clave
Demonstrates a replicable nature-based solution for restoring degraded agricultural soils in Mediterranean climates
Increases soil organic matter and biological activity, improving long-term soil function and carbon sequestration
Serves as a living demonstration site with high educational and upscaling potential for regenerative farming in the region

6.8 Debilidades/ desventajas/ riesgos de la Tecnología y formas de sobreponerse a ellos

Debilidades/ desventajas/ riesgos desde la perspectiva del usuario de la tierra	¿Cómo sobreponerse a ellas?
Slow establishment phase before benefits become visible	Patience + phased planting; choose fast-growing pioneer species to accelerate canopy formation
Requires knowledge and ecological management skills	Ongoing guidance from experts / capacity building / training
Young plants vulnerable to drought during first summers	Supplemental irrigation in the first years and thicker mulching to reduce evaporation

Debilidades/ desventajas/ riesgos desde la perspectiva del compilador o de otra persona de referencia clave	¿Cómo sobreponerse a ellas?
Long ecological recovery timeline before system reaches full functionality	Use succession planning and pioneer/perennial nurse species to accelerate canopy closure and soil regeneration
Success depends on appropriate species selection for local microclimate and soil	Improve site-specific design using adaptive planting trials, monitoring, and locally adapted cultivars
Knowledge-intensive management compared to conventional systems	Provide technical training, extension support, and farmer-to-farmer learning
Restoration outcomes may vary with drought years and extreme heat events	Increase biomass cover, soil shading, and water retention strategies in early establishment years

7. Referencias y vínculos

7.1 Métodos/ fuentes de información

visitas de campo, encuestas de campo

Field visits and surveys were conducted once every season on-site with the primary land user (one key informant), supplemented by technical assessments from the research team

entrevistas con usuarios de tierras

One-on-one interviews were conducted with the primary land user (one key informant) at least once a year, focusing on management decisions, perceived benefits and challenges, and changes observed since the start of the transition

entrevistas con especialistas/ expertos en MST

The expert input was provided by specialists involved in the University of Haifa restoration pilot

compilación de informes y otra documentación existente

7.2 Vínculos a las publicaciones disponibles

Título, autor, año, ISBN:

Zbedat, G., & Brook, A. (2025). Land Restoration Effectiveness Assessed by Satellite-Based Remote Sensing Technologies as A New Monitoring Approach. The International Archives of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences, 48, 149-155.

¿Dónde se halla disponible? ¿Costo?

Google Scholar

Título, autor, año, ISBN:

T. A. Cohen, A. Brook and G. Zbedat, "Long-Term Land Restoration Assessment Using Remote Sensing in Mediterranean Ecosystems," 2024 IEEE International Workshop on Metrology for Agriculture and Forestry (MetroAgriFor), Padua, Italy, 2024, pp. 179-183, doi: 10.1109/MetroAgriFor63043.2024.10948855.

¿Dónde se halla disponible? ¿Costo?

Google Scholar

7.3 Vínculos a la información relevante disponible en línea

Título/ descripción:

React4Med site

URL:

https://react4med.eu

Título/ descripción:

Bethlehem of Galilee Food Forest Collection

URL:

https://haifa.primo.exlibrisgroup.com/discovery/collectionDiscovery?vid=972HAI_MAIN:HAU&inst=972HAI_MAIN&collectionId=81263109080002791

Vínculos y módulos

Expandir todo