Malden celebrates installation of first Pocket Forest

The City of Malden proudly announced the installation of its first-ever pocket forest – an innovative urban green space aimed at increasing biodiversity and promoting sustainability – on Goodwin Avenue. This project was made possible through a Mass. Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) grant from the Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation. Malden’s pocket forest is the first in the state utilizing this grant. Mayor Gary Christenson, State Representative Kate Lipper-Garabedian, Ward 5 Councillor Ari Taylor and Cemetery Director/Tree Warden Chris Rosa along with other elected officials celebrated the beautiful addition to Ward 5.

The idea originated from resident Ashley Kolodziej, who was looking for a way to beautify a small piece of city-owned land abutting her property and bring neighbors together. Residents Ashley Kolodziej, Jessica Fujimori and Lauren Albert assisted in the efforts, which included Councillor Taylor’s facilitating multiple community meetings over several months and working with Tree Warden Chris Rosa to bring this project to life.

The pocket forest is part of Malden’s broader effort to expand green spaces, improve urban sustainability and engage residents in environmental stewardship.