CivicStory trustees Susan Haig and Dr. Marian Glenn reported on New Jersey micro-forests as part of the United Parks As One (Newark) Monthly Meeting on July 15, 2023.

Micro-forests (or patch forests) are densely planted, multi-layered forests of native trees and shrubs. Although they can be as small as a tennis court, they provide multiple benefits to their communities. 

Five characteristics make them unique. Micro-forests are: 

1. Fast growing 

2. Very densely planted 

3. Filled with diverse species native to their region 

4. Planted in enriched soil 

5. Self-sufficient after three years of care

Their health and safety benefits include:

• Release water vapor and cool nearby areas

• Filtrate rainwater into the soil, and help manage storm water

• Provide native habitat for animals, insects, and birds, restoring biodiversity  

• Soak up carbon dioxide and sequester carbon underground, mitigating global warming

The 15-minute video below describes mini-forests (also called Miyawaki forests or tiny forests) in Elizabeth and Summit (NJ), Cambridge (MA), and Erie (PA.)

Enjoy the exploration!

Thank you for reading and watching. We hope you also get excited about the community benefits of micro-forests!

Please feel free to like and share so we can continue to work together toward a healthier planet.