Over 50 volunteers of all ages came together in Barnoldswick to transform 840 baby trees into an instant forest in under two hours. Scouts, Guides, and local residents joined forces to plant a Miyawaki Micro-Forest, a special method designed to create healthy, fast-growing woodland in a small space.

“It was fantastic to see so many people turn out for this project, especially given the poor weather forecast,” said Councillor Chris Church, chair of the Barlick Bioscapes joint working group of Town Council and Eco Barnoldswick members. “This was our first project as a working group, and we’re already looking for more ways to create new and enjoyable green spaces in and around the area.”

The Micro-Forest project was a partnership between Barlick Bioscapes and Lancashire County Council, planted on land provided by Barnoldswick Town Council and supported by a grant from the Tree Council and DEFRA’s Trees Outside Woodland Fund.

Miyawaki Micro-Forests are named after Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki, who developed the technique using a special combination of trees and nutrients to encourage rapid, healthy growth. Across the UK, these forests provide vital habitats for birds, butterflies, and other wildlife, while absorbing carbon and producing oxygen faster than standard newly planted trees.