A Dryden trail group is inviting volunteers to take part in a native forest planting project this weekend.
The Dryden Rail Trail Task Force will host a second “tiny forest” planting day along the trail west of Pinckney Road on Saturday, May 16, with two volunteer shifts scheduled from 9 to 11 a.m. and 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. A rain date is set for Sunday, May 17.
Organizers say the effort is supported by a Neighborhood Mini-Grant awarded by Sustainable Finger Lakes, which is helping fund plants and materials for the project in Etna.
The planting builds on earlier work that included clearing invasive species and installing the first group of 75 trees and shrubs with help from Dryden High School students and volunteers. Another 100 native plants will be added to the site.
The project is based on the Miyawaki method, which creates small, dense native forests designed to develop quickly and support biodiversity. The installation will eventually include about 175 trees and shrubs, including eastern red cedar, burr oak, dogwood, American hazelnut, ninebark, and prairie willow.
Volunteer organizers say the goal is to create a resilient native ecosystem along the rail trail while improving habitat and environmental health in the area.
Those interested or volunteering or seeking more information can contact Alice Green at [email protected].
