The effectiveness of the protection of riparian landscapes in Israel

Riparian landscapes are natural habitats of unique ecological, environmental and scenic values, which are highly sensitive to human intervention and impact. Yet, due to their qualities, and especially the presence of water, they are also usually attractive for recreation purposes. This is more so in arid and semi-arid zones like Israel. Nevertheless, in the past, the importance of riparian landscapes in Israel did not receive adequate attention in policy and planning. As a result, over the years they were exposed to various negative impacts, including pollution by industrial and agricultural effluents, diversion of water for agricultural and other purposes, and land use conflicts. Although in recent years, with the growing awareness of their ecological and recreational potential, considerable efforts are being invested in the rehabilitation of deteriorated riparian landscapes, their protection is still deficient. This article reviews and examines policy tools used for the protection of riparian landscapes in Israel, focusing on legislation, institutional structure and physical planning as they emerge from relevant laws, reports and literature. It reveals, among others, gaps and deficiencies in legislation, institutional dualities along with split authorities both expressing a particularistic approach, and, until recently, lack of relevant designated planning. The article concludes by offering some suggestions for improving the protection of riparian landscapes in Israel, including: integration of existing laws based on a whole watershed approach; reorganization of institutional structure to facilitate a national vision of riparian landscapes rather than the existing particularistic approach; formulation of structured planning procedures to ensure the realization of designated national plans; and promotion of awareness to riparian values at various levels.