Meet Baruch Kogan—born in Russia, raised in the United States, and shaped by eight years of service in the U.S. military, including two tours in Iraq and rebuilding irrigation systems in Afghanistan. Though he was on the path toward a career in engineering, Baruch chose something deeper: to live in the Land of Israel.
Settling in Judea and Samaria—the biblical heartland—Baruch has dedicated his life to restoring the Land. Thanks to your encouragement and support, he helped launch the Miyawaki Forest, a 10,000-tree reforestation project. And now, that same vision is taking root on a new hilltop: Ayyir Hashachar.
The Challenge
This remote community of 25 families faces difficult conditions: no electricity, weak water pressure, and land that still waits to be healed. Baruch installed a pump to irrigate the forest, but without consistent power, the water cannot flow. His solution is to build a solar power system to keep the irrigation lines alive.
Every plant is at risk without water, but thanks to your support, Baruch has been able to keep pushing forward. Together with the community, he has already begun laying the groundwork—ordering the solar system parts, preparing for the installation, and supporting the broader effort to replace the main water line so pressure can be raised across the entire hilltop. These steps, made possible because of you, will ensure that the forest can thrive.
Your Impact in Action
While the infrastructure is being put in place, Baruch hasn’t stopped caring for the Land. With your help, he has started raising seedlings in grow beds at his home, preparing them for the day when water flows steadily and they can take root in the soil of Ayyir Hashachar.
Even while serving his country in miluim (reserve duty) in Gaza, Baruch is working toward this vision. His devotion to the Land—and your partnership—are what make this possible.
Standing Together
Baruch is one pioneer who believes that healing the Land is not only possible—it’s a calling. And it is your generosity that equips him to take on these challenges step by step.
If you’d like to continue strengthening this work, becoming a monthly partner is a simple way to ensure projects like Baruch’s can move forward—building solar-powered water systems, planting forests, and reviving the soil of Judea and Samaria.
Together, we are not only planting trees. We are planting hope, faith, and roots that will last for generations.