Friends of The Underline and TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank®, announced a $300,000 grant over two years to support the planting and maintenance of two microforests, an innovative method of rapidly growing Miami’s tree canopy and cooling our climate in urban areas. As part of its Vibrant Planet initiatives, TD Bank is working to protect and improve the environment so that people and economies can thrive.  

This grant supports two microforests creating over 2,600 square feet of forest with over 1,300 native plants and trees. First started in Japan, the Miyawaki afforestation method creates dense forests in small spaces. Microforests create tree canopies that mitigate heat, reduce water runoff, and improve air quality to address Miami’s unique climate challenges. These small, intentionally planted plots of land transform unused spaces into vibrant habitats. They help connect existing forest fragments, providing increased connectivity for birds and insects to move safely through our city.

“We are grateful for TD Bank’s commitment to pioneering new urban forestry methods on The Underline,” Patrice Gillespie Smith, President & COO, said. “Their investment in South Florida’s first microforests will create a lasting legacy in preserving our community’s unique ecosystem while addressing the climate challenges that Miami faces.”

“TD Bank is a proud supporter of The Underline and we are excited to fund the installation of microforests in South Florida,” says Paige Carlson-Heim, Head of U.S. Social Impact for TD Bank. “We are looking forward to communities having the opportunity to realize the benefits of these microforests which not only include beautifying our environment and creating green spaces in unused land, but will also help combat rising temperatures and other climate-related issues.”

The first of these innovative forests has been planted near SW 88th Street and US1, just a short walk south from the Dadeland North Metrorail Station. The second is expected to break ground soon on US1 and Ludlam Road.

About The Underline

The Underline is a 10-mile linear park and urban trail that runs beneath the Metrorail from the Miami River to Dadeland South. The park is designed to create a vibrant public space that connects communities, promotes health and wellness, and encourages sustainable transportation. The Underline features a variety of amenities, including bike and pedestrian paths, exercise equipment, and public art. For more information about The Underline, please visit www.theunderline.org and @theunderlinemia on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

About TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank^®

TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank, is one of the 10 largest banks in the U.S. by assets, providing over 10 million customers with a full range of retail, small business and commercial banking products and services at more than 1,100 convenient locations throughout the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Metro D.C., the Carolinas and Florida. In addition, TD Auto Finance, a division of TD Bank, N.A., offers vehicle financing and dealer commercial services. TD Bank and its subsidiaries also offer customized private banking and wealth management services through TD Wealth^®. TD Bank is headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J. To learn more, visit www.td.com/us. Find TD Bank on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TDBank and on Instagram at www.instagram.com/TDBank_US/.  

TD Bank is a subsidiary of The Toronto-Dominion Bank, a top 10 North American bank. The Toronto-Dominion Bank trades on the New York and Toronto stock exchanges under the ticker symbol “TD”. To learn more, visit www.td.com/us.