Sizing up a Tiny Forest’s Giant Impact

GoodGymers Louise and Linda became citizen scientists for an hour tonight, helping with surveys conducted by a team of Ladywell volunteers to begin monitoring the impact of their Tiny Forest. This was the first Science Day to be held in Ladywell Fields to measure the growth of the 600 saplings – planted by schoolchildren in November – and to take stock of benefits to biodiversity, including pollinating insects.

We especially enjoyed using a cool digital caliper to gauge the diameter of the tree trunks (precise to fractions of millimetres!) which, combined with information on species type and height, will be used to calculate capacity for storing carbon. Other tasks included soil measurements to assess the benefits of the forest for flood management and urban cooling. Experts from environmental charity Earthwatch were there to offer educational advice on nature-based climate solutions, making this an all round good workout for mind and body!