Situated in Israel’s largest municipal region, the Yoel DeMalach Center for Desert Agriculture, formally the Ramat Hanegev Desert Agro Research and Innovation Center is at the forefront of global desert agriculture and sustainability research. Operating in one of the harshest climates on Earth, the Center is a unique hub where innovation, science, and practical farming converge to shape the future of agriculture in arid and semi-arid regions.

The Mission

To develop, test, and promote sustainable agricultural practices tailored for desert environments, improving food security, conserving water, and adapting to climate change.

The Work

• • Cutting-Edge Research: The Center manages over 50 research plots spread across varied desert terrains. These serve as live laboratories for experimenting with crops, irrigation methods, soil treatment, and climate-adaptive technologies.
  • Technology Development: Collaborating with startups, academic institutions, and global organizations, the center pioneers technologies that enable productive farming with minimal water and energy inputs.
  • Knowledge Transfer: The Center actively shares insights through training programs, international collaborations, and on-site demonstrations, helping regions worldwide apply desert agriculture practices.
  • Customized Solutions: From brackish water irrigation systems to high-yield greenhouse crops, the center’s researchers and scientists tailor innovations to the unique challenges faced by desert and drought-prone areas.

Core Focus Areas

• • Water-Efficient Irrigation
  • Alternative Crops for Arid Climates
  • Soil Health and Regeneration
  • Greenhouse Innovation
  • Climate Resilience in Agriculture

Global Impact

The work extends beyond Israel’s borders. The technologies and strategies developed at the Yoel DeMalach Center for Desert Agriculture are adopted in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East—helping communities grow food in challenging conditions and build agricultural independence.