Poem Forest
Poem Forest is an eco-poetry project that invites students, teachers, and communities to become environmental advocates through connecting with local ecology and the creative power of poetry.
Inspired by Red Room Poetry’s successful Poem Forest in Australia, the project blends nature poetry and tree planting initiatives. The curriculum connects young writers (ages 8-18) with nature poetry as they study local ecology and review natural sciences. The classwork culminates in poetry performances that coincide with community tree plantings on school and/or public property.
Young writers witness their words take root. They see their ideas blossom from page to forest through local tree plantings and public readings. This project empowers them to find their voices, share their environmental concerns, and actively participate in climate action with tangible results that heal habitats and create a lasting legacy for future generations.
The Poem Forest activities focus not only on the art of creative writing and the power of performance, but the impact that poetry has on greater natural systems. Students learn to use their voices and creativity in support of restoration, the importance of interspecies relationships, while uplifting climate justice and deepening their understanding of eco-social engagement.
The Poem Forest Card Deck will be available Fall of 2025.
Poem Forest Activities
Activities Preview
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The Poem Forest Toolkit is available for download at the bottom of the page.
Download the Toolkit
Learn how to activate the Turnaround Arts Learning Framework in your classroom through the Poem Forest arts integration project.