Worcester Pioneers with Two New Miyawaki Forests

Photo credit: Afforestt

 

Worcester on the cutting edge as they announce not one, but two, Miyawaki Forest, will be planted in Worcester. Talk of the Commonwealth does the “deep dive” into everything you need to know. Miyawaki forests are named after Japanese botanist Dr. Akira Miyawaki, who developed a method of creating fast-growing native forests that are densely arranged and multi-layered. The forests are known to help with carbon dioxide absorption and managing stormwater run-off. John Odell, Chief Sustainability Officer for Worcester tells us the city is investing four hundred thousand dollars into the two forests. The first Miyawaki Forest is approximately 6,400 square-feet and will be planted in a segment of the McGrath Parking Lot adjacent to the Worcester Public Library at 3 Salem Sq. The forest area will also feature 1,000 square-feet of community gathering space. The second Miyawaki Forest is 8,000 square-feet and will be planted in Plumley Village at 16 Laurel St. and be accompanied by a 3,000 square-foot community picnic area. Odell says the city will also set up two “cool pockets” to help combat the hotter summers. Grants will pay for the projects which he says are low maintenance. Members of the community who express an interest may also be involved in the planting and maintenance of the forests. The money is being provided by grants.