Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Mini Forest

Thanks for helping us monitor this growing Mini Forest at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. This site is part of an effort to restore native habitat in small but powerful ways using dense, fast-growing plantings inspired by natural forest systems. Carefully planted with a diverse mix of native trees and shrubs, our Mini Forest is designed to establish quickly, improve soil health, and create shelter and food for birds, pollinators and other wildlife within the Zoo landscape. 

Staff and partners prepared the site by enriching the soil and planting a wide variety of species close together to encourage rapid growth and resilience. Over time, this space will transform into a layered woodland filled with life—demonstrating how even compact areas can support biodiversity and climate resilience in an urban setting. 

Photos from this site will help us track how the forest develops through the seasons, from early growth to full canopy formation. Your contributions provide valuable insight into plant survival, seasonal change and wildlife use of this emerging habitat. 

You can also help monitor other sites throughout Cleveland Metroparks: Bonnie Park Wetland Restoration, Bonnie Park Dam Removal, Euclid Creek park revitalization & trail extension, Euclid Creek headwater restoration at Acacia Reservation, Floating wetlands, Garfield Park pond/stream, Rising Valley pollinator meadow and Wendy Park shoreline.