11/06/2025
Albany County, NY – June 7, 2025 — In a massive step toward reforesting New York and combating climate change, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) joined forces with nearly 100 volunteers to plant over 500 native trees and shrubs in just one day. The location? The Five Rivers Environmental Education Center, now home to DEC’s first-ever mini forest, also known as a pocket forest or Miyawaki forest.
This hands-on, community-driven effort is part of Governor Kathy Hochul’s ambitious 25 Million Trees Initiative, a statewide campaign to enhance green spaces, improve public health, and address the climate crisis.
The Five Rivers Environmental Education Center, now home to DEC’s first-ever mini forest, also known as a pocket forest or Miyawaki forest. This hands-on, community-driven effort is part of Governor Kathy Hochul’s ambitious 25 Million Trees Initiative, a statewide campaign to enhance green space...