Richmond’s first tiny forest was planted at Fonticello Park on March 15, an effort led by the Chesapeake Bay Foundation and Richmond Parks and Recreation with the help of about 25 volunteers.

The project converted a former playground’s blacktop off Bainbridge Street into a 30-by-60-foot planting site with about 250 native tree seedlings and shrubs. It follows the Miyawaki method, a reforestation approach designed to accelerate growth and increase biodiversity in urban spaces.

Tiny forests have been established in cities worldwide as a strategy to improve air quality, support wildlife and address climate change. Research by the Science Museum of Virginia has shown that treeless areas in Richmond can be up to 16 degrees hotter in the summer than neighborhoods with more tree cover.

“This groundbreaking project transforms a section of the park into a dense, rapidly growing urban woodland,” said Ann Jurczyk, Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s Virginia Urban Restoration Manager. “It’s going to combat the urban heat island effect by creating a canopy that cools cities plus sequester carbon and provide vital habitat for local wildlife.”

Volunteers participated in planting the trees, including local residents who frequent the park. Some said they were motivated by a desire to support environmental initiatives and contribute to the community.

The tiny forest is expected to develop into a self-sustaining ecosystem over time, adding green space to the park and providing environmental benefits.