Microforest

Overview

Thanks to the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, WMSRDC has had the fortune of participating in the development of two micro-forests in Muskegon County! Starting with an idea brought forward by Muskegon Rotarians, Muskegon’s first micro-forest was implemented in City of Muskegon’s Marquette Neighborhood in 2024. Following the success of this project, the Muskegon Environmental Research & Educational Society adopted this idea and championed a second micro forest at Muskegon Lake Nature Preserve this spring.

Research shows high performance micro-forest forests will grow faster than other forms of re-wilding urban forestry due to its use of the Miyawaki method. The Miyawaki method focuses on the importance of native forests, and the function of diverse yet complementary species. Factoring in warmer climate conditions and the importance of diverse yet complementary native species, micro-forests are better protected from outside forces such as invasives species. The dense placement and special soil preparations give the possibility to adapt a very small area of available land for the broader purpose of preventing floods, cooling against urban heat, and providing resilience against high wind and other natural disaster impacts. The natural selection among seedlings allows the thriving ones to develop quickly, producing a mature forest in 15-20 years. The rapid growth rate enables micro forests to intercept, filter, and transpire an enormous quantity of storm water that would otherwise transport pollutants and excess nutrients to Muskegon Lake.

Both micro-forests have received overwhelming support from local classrooms, environmental organizations, and businesses. The community members, volunteers, and students who help prepare the ground, plant trees, and tend to the micro forest will better understand the benefits of trees, develop greater pride in the project, and can be expected to volunteer in other positive ways in the future.

Project Partners:

• Community Foundation for Muskegon County
• Muskegon Rotary Club
• Marquette Neighborhood Association
• Muskegon Environmental Research & Educational Society
• United Way of the Lakeshore
• City of Muskegon
• City of North Muskegon
• Muskegon Conservation District
• Multiple Reese Puffer Classrooms
• H&H Landscape Supply
• Blended Furnature
• PADNOS Recycling
• McFarland and Sons Tree Service
• Community Volunteers