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Exploring the forests we share — from trees and understory plants to mammals, fungi, and soil life — and their relationships with people that sustain healthy ecosystems.
World Wildlife Day (WWD) is celebrated each year to recognize the essential role biodiversity plays in sustaining people and the planet.
Today, biodiversity loss affects livelihoods, cultures, and ecosystems around the world. But solutions begin locally.
Join us on Sunday March 8 at 10:00 AM to explore HOW DO LOCAL ACTIONS CONTRIBUTE TO A HEALTHIER PLANET. We will conclude with a guided walk in Summit's Tiny Forest, experiencing firsthand how this small-scale restoration project, led by the Summit Environmental Commission, is strengthening ecological resilience.
This hybrid event will include short presentations from the Environmental Commission and Together for Biodiversity (T4BD), followed by an interactive community conversation where participants will discuss and prioritize practical opportunities to help shape local solutions.
Come learn, reflect, and explore how global biodiversity connects to our local forests, parks, and backyards — and how each one of us can be part of the solution.
🌱🌏 #WorldWildlifeDay
💻 Hybrid event (in-person & virtual)
📍 Summit Community Center
(100 Morris av., Summit, NJ 07901)
🗓 Sunday 3/8 from 10:00 to 11:30 AM
Check CITES Wildlife TradeView
CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) is an international agreement between governments. Its aim is to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten the survival of the species.
The City of Summit Tiny Forest is a multi-layered forest of native plants located on 11,000 square feet behind the Community Center (100 Morris Av., Summit, NJ). It was planted using the Miyawaki Method and is designed to become self-sustaining after two to three years and fully developed in 20 to 30 years.
More than 50 native species of trees, shrubs, and flowers are rooted in the Tiny Forest. These plants will ultimately provide decades of important environmental benefits including:
Enhanced biodiversity and wildlife habitat
Stormwater absorption and improved water quality
Carbon capture and cooler microclimates
A Community-Powered Project
The Tiny Forest began with a grant from NJ American Water, along with support from the Summit Conservancy, and was designed and planted by volunteers, Summit Environmental Commission (EC) members, and city staff.
Since its ribbon-cutting in April 2022, community volunteers have continued to care for the forest through activities like weeding, watering, mulching, and guiding pathways.
Volunteers also collect seeds from forest plants each year to stock the Native Seed Library at the Summit Free Public Library, helping extend its ecological reach into local gardens and yards.
Indigenous Medicine Garden
The Tiny Forest is located on land that is part of the traditional territory of the Lenni-Lenape. The Lenape lived in harmony with one another upon this territory for thousands of years.
The Indigenous Medicine Garden is located immediately to the right upon entering the Tiny Forest. It contains native plant species that the Lenape used for medicinal purposes. These plants could provide relief for ailments ranging from headaches, dental issues, and digestive issues to sore throats, coughs, and fevers.
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