Somerville High School Forest

Somerville High School Forest

Photos by Maya Dutta

On Sunday October 22, 2023 we are planting Somerville’s first Miyawaki Forest at Somerville High School! Sign up to volunteer here.

We are so excited to bring another pocket forest to life with the help of the community, high school, and municipality. We will share information, updates, and photos on the forest as it progresses, so stay tuned!


About the Forest

The Miyawaki Forest is an ultra dense, biodiverse pocket forest that recreates the complexity of natural forests and the relationships and processes that help them grow strong and resilient. By giving home to a vast array of native species, they boost the biodiversity of the area and nurture pollinators, supporting and restoring ecosystems.

They sequester carbon in the soil, reduce air pollution and soil contamination, improve water absorption to buffer against flooding and erosion, and cool the surrounding area to mitigate the urban heat island effect. They also create a living classroom for people and communities to learn about native ecology, engage in stewardship, and experience the interconnectedness of the natural world.


Related Resources and Links


Many Thanks

To Alison Maurer, Luisa Oliveira and Somerville Public Spaces and Urban Forestry; To Mayor Katjana Ballantyne; To the Somerville Department of Public Works; To Somerville High School; and to SUGi for their support and partnership in this project.

Thank you to the Somerville community – to our amazing volunteers, incredible team leaders, and all those who supported this project.