The University of Iowa will plant 4,000 seedlings of diverse species to grow a Miyawaki forest, enhancing biodiversity and sustainability.

The University of Iowa is set to revolutionize campus forestry with an innovative Japanese-inspired planting technique. This Earth Day, the university will break ground on Iowa’s largest Miyawaki forest, introducing a dense, biodiverse ecosystem that matures in decades rather than centuries.

What is a Miyawaki forest?

First things first: What even is a Miyawaki forest?

According to Mongabay, a Miyawaki forest is a densely planted miniature ecosystem created using a specialized afforestation technique developed by Japanese ecologist Akira Miyawaki in the early 1970s. This approach involves strategically planting diverse native species in close proximity to mimic the natural layers found in mature forests, accelerating growth and ecological restoration.

A new approach to campus forestry

The University of Iowa’s ambitious project will transform a challenging half-acre plot northeast of Hillcrest Residence Hall into a thriving forest of 4,000 native seedlings. Unlike traditional forests where trees are spaced 9 feet apart, the Miyawaki method plants trees just 1-2 feet apart, mimicking nature’s own growth patterns.

“Miyawaki forests offer a range of ecological benefits, including creating habitat for native fauna while improving air quality and stormwater management,” Brinda Shetty, program manager with the Office of Sustainability and the Environment, told Iowa Now.

The forest will also be a self-sustaining ecosystem. According to Andy Dahl, landscape urban forest supervisor and arborist, the forest will require minimal maintenance after just three years of initial care. “We’re planting more trees, creating a natural environment for native species, and creating something that will be naturally self-sustaining,” says Dahl. “It’s a win-win.”

Student innovation leads to environmental action

The project originated from a College of Engineering Sustainable Systems class, where students explored the Miyawaki concept and its potential application on campus.

Alyssa Hatch, a fourth-year Sustainable Sciences major, reflects on her involvement: “I was especially drawn to the aspect of creating something long-lasting, something that not only benefits the environment but also provides learning experiences for future students.”

Community involvement opportunities

The university is seeking volunteers to help plant seedlings from April 25 to 29, with sessions scheduled daily. Participants can contribute as much time as they wish, whether planting one tree or a hundred. The project culminates in a community celebration featuring Song*Lines Project on May 2.

Native species diversity

The forest will feature 24 native species, ranging from towering oaks to understory trees like serviceberry and redbud. This carefully selected mix supports the university’s commitment to environmental stewardship, building on its 16-year recognition as a Tree Campus Higher Education institution and its status as a Level II accredited arboretum.

For more details and volunteer registration, interested participants can visit the university’s sustainability website.

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