Miyawaki Forest

Planting the Forest

What was once a steep, grassy hill near the northeast corner of Hillcrest Residence Hall quickly became a forest of native trees that connects Hawkeyes of the present and the future. On Arbor Day (April 25) of 2025, the campus community planted 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. The University of Iowa’s Miyawaki forest is now the second and the largest planting of this style in the state.

A Campus-Wide Arboretum

The University of Iowa is home to about 8,000 trees of more than 300 species and is recognized as a Tree Campus by the Arbor Day Foundation.

Visit the UI Arboretum

Benefits of the Miyawaki Forest

Andy Dahl standing near bags of tree samplings to be planted in Miyawaki Forest

Create a living laboratory

The Miyawaki forest offers faculty and students unique opportunities for interdisciplinary teaching and research, fostering hands-on learning and academic exploration.

Manage stormwater

Trees slow down and filter stormwater runoff, helping mitigate the university's impacts on the Iowa River.

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.

Enhance local biodiversity

Native species support local wildlife and create a balanced ecosystem.

Tree sapling growing in the Miyawaki Forest

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: