In Rochester, a dense grove of 300 native trees and shrubs is taking root behind City Hall planted by volunteers, city staff and master gardeners.

The 1,000-square-foot micro forest sits on a plot previously used as a garbage dump. Its design is based on a Japanese method called the Miyawaki Technique, utilizing densely planted native trees and on heavily degraded soils.

Rochester City Council Member Marilyn Trent is the founder of the nonprofit Rochester Pollinators, which led the project in collaboration with the city. She says the initiative is just one innovative way to restore natural habitats and green spaces in the community.

Trent joined The Metro on Monday to talk about the forest and her experience working with Rochester Pollinators.

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