Mini Forest Project
We are delighted to be working in collaboration with Hampshire Forest Partnership to create a fantastic Mini Forest project here at New Park.
Project Scope
We aim to create not only a fantastic showcase for different tree species and planting techniques that will offer a diverse habitat for a wide range of flora and fauna but also develop an immersive, educational and wellbeing focused space that will become a real asset to New Park and the wider community.
What is a Mini Forest?
Miyawaki or ‘Mini Forests’, are created using a planting technique that quickly establishes an entire forest ecosystem within an area that can be as small as a tennis court.
This method encourages trees to grow up to ten times faster than when planted using more traditional woodland creation methods. As they are planted close together this allows the plant community to support itself, as well as being more resilient to disease, drought and climate change impacts.
Mini forests help restore the soil biome and improve soil carbon sequestration.
Key Elements
There are a number of elements we would like to include within the project design which will bring a wealth of benefits to both the environment and our community.
- Two mini forest areas - each to have different ground preparation so the results can be compared
- Natural regeneration/ rewilding area
- Coppice area for harvesting wood
- Nature pond and bog garden
- Outdoor classroom/ meeting space
- Information/ interpretation boards
We also hope to include additional features such as: willow domes or sculptures, beetle banks, seating areas, bug hotel, pond dipping platform ..... the possibilities are endless!
Hampshire Forest Partnership
Hampshire Forest Partnership was set up in 2022 with a remit to boost tree planting in Hampshire and promote the massive benefits that trees have to the environment. Their overall aim is to work with local communities and organisations across Hampshire to plant 1 million trees by 2050.
For more information click here to visit their website.
Education & Community Involvement
Central to the project is engaging with and and involving local schools, community groups and families as much as possible as well as linking in with partner organisations.
We have already worked with two local primary schools whose pupils have been helping us design elements of the projects. We have been so impressed with their well thought out ideas and wonderful creativeness.
If you are involved with a local group or organisation and would like to work with us please do get in touch: office@newparkfarm.org
We need YOUR help:
We very much hope this fantastic project is something that you would like to be involved with. In order to make it a success we need YOUR help!
- Donations: If you would like to make a financial donation, please follow the link below to our crowdfunding page:
www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/newforestshow
- Volunteering: With over 2,000 trees to plant and take care of we will need lots of man power. If you are an individual who would like to get involved or from a local group or organisation please do get in touch.
- Materials: If you are a local company who would like to assist by donating or giving a discount on materials for the project such as fencing and gates we would love to hear from you!
- Contact: If you have any questions or queries, please do not hesitate to contact us:
Email: office@newparkfarm.org
Tel: 01590 622400