Bayside High School students designed and planted a “tiny forest” at a neighborhood park — a lasting legacy that will be officially unveiled this Arbor Day.

The students will be at Wesleyan Park on April 25, joining Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation in celebrating Arbor Day.

Students in the Advanced Placement Environmental Science class researched species selection, forest planning and soil testing and mitigation, working with their teacher, April Goodwin, City Arborist Brooke Costanza and Master Gardener Tree Stewards Terri Belkov, Mildred Manger and Greg Stillman.

Tiny forests often reach maturity in 20 years.

“The concept of the tiny forest is to plant the trees close together, like a natural forest grows,” Constanza said. “This causes the trees to compete for sunlight, reaching maturity faster than a landscape tree. It was a unique project allowing the students to learn about different aspects of urban forestry.”

Some students were unsure how much impact a tiny forest could have at first, but they were proud and excited by the end of the project, Goodwin said.

“Seeing the space transform from just dirt and grass into a living forest that we helped plant was really cool,” she said. “There was a sense of ownership and teamwork that made it feel like a real accomplishment.”

The tree stewards created a lesson plan to teach students about soil chemistry and the importance of trees to the environment, including flood reduction. The students tested the soil at the park and compared it to the findings in a nearby forest and presented their ideas to the tree stewards and Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation, which donated time, expertise, mulch, shovels and trees.

“In class, I learned about biodiversity, native species, soil types, how to test for various nutrients within the soil, and why small forests in urban areas matter so much,” said junior Katherine Dewey. “On-site, I learned how much planning, effort and care it takes to start something like this. It’s not just planting trees; it’s about soil quality, spacing, sunlight, and long-term growth. I also learned how even a small group of students can create something that makes a positive impact for years to come.”

With parks and rec staff, the team planted over 300 trees and shrubs at Wesleyan Park on March 13.

All species were native and tend to thrive in more acidic soil. Loblolly pine, white oak, tulip poplar, black gum, redbud, dogwood, blueberry, sweetspire, sweetbay magnolia, American holly, inkberry and arrowwood viburnum were chosen.

“It’s a fantastic example of community-driven environmental stewardship and an inspiring story to share,” said Bridget Mariano, a member of the Virginia Beach Sustainable Schools Committee.

Goodwin said students enjoyed getting outside and doing something hands-on.

“It was a break from the usual routine of sitting in class, and it felt good to physically contribute to something that helps the planet,” she said. “Working together with classmates also made it fun. It wasn’t just about planting trees; it was about building something as a team and having fun! They also liked learning about the types of trees they were planting and how they benefit the ecosystem.”

Click here to view a timelapse of the planting. And click here for more information about the project.