Two Miyawaki forests will be planted in Worcester

By Meghan Boucher

Image courtesy of MGN

The city of Worcester is planning to plant two micro forests, which will help the city’s biodiversity and support climate resilience.

The forests are named after Japanese botanist Dr. Akira Miyawaki. By creating densely packed areas of native plants, Miyawaki forests help urban communities manage heat island effects, absorb stormwater runoff, and support biodiversity.

Worcester announced that part of the McGrath Parking Lot at 3 Salem Square will be home to the first Miyawaki forest, which will measure 6,400 square feet. The second forest will measure 8,000 square feet and will be planted in Plumley Village at 16 Laurel St. 

The city’s pilot program will also include the construction of two “CoolPockets,” which will provide shaded areas for the community. 

Worcester is working with BSC Group and Bio4Climate to implement both environmental projects, which are expected to be completed by the end of June.