What is now a steep, grassy hill near the northeast corner of Hillcrest Residence Hall will soon be a thriving forest of native trees that connects Hawkeyes of the present and the future.  Starting this Arbor Day (April 25), the campus community will plant 4,000 tree seedlings using the Miyawaki method. The Miyawaki method, developed by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki, is an innovative approach to afforestation that mimics natural forest ecosystems. This technique involves planting a diverse mix of native species very closely together, which accelerates growth and enhances biodiversity. Miyawaki forests grow up to 10 times faster than traditional forests and become self-sustaining within a few years.  Once completed, the University of Iowa’s Miyawaki forest will be the second and the largest planting of this style in the state.

Why We Are Planting a Miyawaki Forest

The University of Iowa is home to about 8,000 trees of more than 300 species, including historic and rare trees.  It has been officially recognized as a level II accredited arboretum through ArbNet and has consecutively been awarded a Tree Campus Higher Education award for the past 15 years.  In the fall of 2024, students in the College of Engineering's Sustainable Systems class studied the feasibility of planting a Miyawaki forest on campus.  Through conversations between the students, Office of Sustainability and the Environment, and Landscape Services, the Miyawaki forest began to take root.  By planting a Miyawaki forest, we aim to:

• Enhance local biodiversity: Native species support local wildlife and create a balanced ecosystem.
• Improve air quality: Dense forests act as natural air purifiers, absorbing pollutants and producing oxygen.
• Address maintenance challenges: The hillside where the Miyawaki forest will be planted has been identified as dangerous to mow. Planting a Miyawaki forest here will transform this difficult-to-maintain area into a thriving ecosystem that requires minimal upkeep.
• Enhance greenspace: The university prioritizes accessible outdoor spaces to enhance well-being and promote relaxation, recreation, and connection with nature. The Miyawaki forest will become an outdoor sanctuary for our campus community.
• Manage stormwater: Trees slow down and filter stormwater runoff, helping mitigate the university's impacts on the Iowa River.
• Create living laboratories: The Miyawaki forest will provide faculty and students with unique opportunities for interdisciplinary teaching and research, fostering hands-on learning and academic exploration.

Planting the Forest

Planting days are scheduled as follows, however, they may be canceled if planting is completed earlier than expected, or due to inclement weather.   To help us plan and estimate attendance, please register in advance, especially if you're bringing a large group.

Arbor Day Planting Kickoff
Friday, April 25
1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Special Programming

• Reptiles and amphibians by Extant Relatives, 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
• Yard games and trash clean-up sponsored by Undergraduate Student Government, 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Planting Day #2
Saturday, April 26
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Special Programming

• Children’s activities sponsored by Engaged Early Childhood, 9:30-11:30 a.m.
• Music by LENA Earth Singers, 9:30 a.m. - 9:50 a.m.
• Music by Bella Moss, 10:15 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
• Reading by Jennifer New, 11:00 a.m.

Planting Day #3
Sunday, April 27
1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Special Programming

• Reptiles and amphibians by Extant Relatives, 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
• Music by members of the Awful Purdies, 1:15 p.m.
• Dance by Sophia McLaughlin, 2:30 p.m.

Planting Day #4
Monday, April 28
1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Planting Day #5
Tuesday, April 29
1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Planting will take place on the northeast side of Hillcrest Residence Hall, east side of Lot 13

Parking is limited, so we recommend using public transportation or carpooling.

• Lot 13: There are 25 public spots available after 4:30 pm weekdays and all day weekends.
• Lot 14: Public parking available all day, but fills up by 7 am weekdays.
• Newton Road Parking Ramp: Public parking is available all day, but fills up quickly on weekdays. Weekend parking is usually available.

How to Participate:

Meet us at the hill northeast of Hillcrest Residence Hall and east of Lot 13.  Students, staff, faculty, and community members are welcome – whether you want to plant 1 tree or 100 trees!  You may come and go at your leisure. Stay for as long as you can, and help us plant as many trees as you like.  To help us plan and estimate attendance, please register in advance, especially if you're bringing a large group.

This event is in collaboration with the  LENA Project and is part of our community Promise to the Planet. By planting native trees together, we’re not just making a difference today—we’re leaving a legacy for future generations. These trees will grow, provide shade, clean air, and support wildlife, creating a lasting gift for our community. When you join us, you’re helping to build something that will live on long after we’re gone, shaping a greener, healthier future for Iowa City.

Community Celebration

Join us to dedicate our newly planted Miyawaki Forest!  After the final tree is planted, explore the budding forest, enjoy music by Orion Orrico, and participate in a community sing led by Lyndsey Scott. Let's come together to honor this green space and our community effort to bring it to life.

Celebration
Friday, May 2
4:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Special Programming

• Music by Orion Orrico, 5:00 p.m.
• Community Sing led by Lyndsey Scott, 5:15 p.m.

Trees in the UI Miyawaki Forest

All trees planted in the UI Miyawaki forest are native to Johnson County, IA.  The trees are a diverse mix of canopy trees, understory trees, and shrubs, including:

Who's Involved