About UVA Forest Patches
Since 2022, UVA students have worked with Professor Tim Beatley to develop various Forest Patches and other nature-based strategies across grounds.
Miyawaki Method
“Let us Plant Trees Together – from under our feet, and into the World.”
Dr. Akira Miyawaki
Current patches employ the Miyawaki Method for growth. The Miyawaki Method is a unique type of tree patch planting that can allow for mini forests to be created from as small an area as six parking spaces. This strategy was developed by Dr. Akira Miyawaki and widely popularized following a 2014 Ted Talk.
At UVA, we have developed a way to integrate the Miyawaki Method into current Facilities Management plantings. So far, five patches have been developed in this manner.
Current Patches
- Carr’s Hill Patch (Planted March 2024)
- Hereford Patch (Planted April 2024)
- Hancock Patch (Planted October 2024)
- Carr’s Hill Field Patch (Planted October 2024)
We eagerly anticipate the protection, expansion, and impact of these five patches. Future goals include infill, placemaking strategies, and development of future patches (along with other nature-based strategies).
Past Teams
View team reports under the gallery section.
2026: Jameela Barber, Tyler Jackson, Josie Laugelli, Lucy Robb
2025: Benjamin Elmore, Marley Hays, Jennifer Hunsinger
2024: Elisabeth Doty, Mai Friedman, Anika Gupta, MaeEllen Megginson, Elizabeth Woodward
2023: Leah Germain, Madeline Morphis, Olivia Vargo
2022: Logan Ende, Jake Hecker, Lily Menzin
