Ma'agar Bet Zayit, reservoir in Israel
Ma'agar Bet Zayit is a seasonal water basin in the Jerusalem District that fills mainly during the rainy months. The site features gentle banks surrounded by trees and open spaces, with a simple walking trail running about three-quarters of a mile from the parking area to the water's edge.
The basin was built in the 1950s as a dam across the Nachal Soreq stream to collect and store rainwater in the area. This construction created a water basin that has since served as an important resource for local agriculture and water management.
The reservoir takes its name from the nearby village of Bet Zayit and reflects the long tradition of water management in this region. Today, the site serves as a gathering place where local families and visitors walk, rest, and connect with the landscape around them.
The site is best visited during daylight hours as there is no artificial lighting, and free parking is available on nearby streets. The dirt trails can become muddy after rain, so wear comfortable shoes suited to soft ground. Bring your own food and trash bags, as facilities on site are limited.
The water is home to tiny fairy shrimp, just a few centimeters long, that swim upside down in shallow areas. These small creatures are easy to spot if you look carefully and show the health of the water ecosystem.
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