Netafim’s Ze’ev Barylka Joins The Groundwater Foundation Board Of Directors

Netafim USA, the leader in drip irrigation technology, announced today that Ze’ev Barylka, North American Director of Marketing and Agriculture Sales, has been appointed to The Groundwater Foundation board of directors.

A veteran of the U.S. water industry, Barylka brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in developing, implementing and managing sustainability and conservation initiatives aimed at creating awareness and changing behaviors. In his role at Netafim, Barylka leads the integration of North American marketing and sales, including new product development and introductions, education and training, and marketing communications for the world leader in drip irrigation. His experience includes the implementation of thought leadership and community activation campaigns, and the building of marketing partnerships with landscape, turf, agricultural and irrigation organizations in support of Netafim’s “Grow More With Less” brand positioning.

“As the pioneer of drip irrigation, sustainability and conservation are at the core of Netafim’s values. Partnering with The Groundwater Foundation is a natural fit for Netafim, as the health of the nation’s groundwater supply is a critical piece to ensuring the growth of sustainable agriculture practices,” said Barylka. “As unprecedented drought conditions persist through much of the U.S., it is organizations such as The Groundwater Foundation that provide a forum for industry and regional civic leaders to work together and better address the needs of both today’s and tomorrow’s stakeholders.”

Based in Lincoln, Nebraska, The Groundwater Foundation educates people and inspires action to ensure sustainable, clean groundwater for future generations. Now in its 30th year, The Groundwater Foundation continues to provide motivational and inspirational education and community-based action programs that create greater awareness of groundwater conservation and protection issues among individuals, communities, as well as public and private entities.

“We are excited to have Mr. Barylka as a board member and very much look forward to working closely with him towards achieving the initiatives we are planning to implement during our 30th anniversary year,” said Jane Griffin, president of The Groundwater Foundation. “His expertise, knowledge and experience in turning water challenges into solutions will be a great asset to the Foundation’s mission to ensure sustainable, clean groundwater for future generations.”

Barylka grew up in Latin America, where he saw firsthand how irrigation technology enabled farmers to grow food successfully in different climates, and in turn, how it helped sustain local communities and drive commerce. After moving to Israel to continue his education, Barylka studied best practices for food engineering and production in scarce water environments.

Barylka received his MBA from Haifa University and a Bachelor of Science in Food Engineering and Biotechnology from the prestigious Technological Institute of Israel. He currently resides in San Jose with his family.

ABOUT NETAFIM USA

Netafim USA, based in Fresno, CA, develops and manufactures drip irrigation systems for agriculture, landscape & turf, greenhouse & nursery, mining and wastewater. Netafim offers an extensive range of irrigation solutions including driplines, filters, sprinklers, valves, water meters and automation equipment for complete dripline system installations. For more information, go to www.netafimusa.com.

ABOUT THE GROUNDWATER FOUNDATION

The Groundwater Foundation is a non-profit organization based in Lincoln, Nebraska with a mission to educate people and inspire action to ensure clean, sustainable groundwater for future generations. Since its inception in 1985, the Foundation has offered various educational programming for youth and adults. To learn more, visit www.groundwater.org.

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