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Nargol Miyawaki Coastal Forest – World’s Largest Coastal Miyawaki Forest

Nargol Miyawaki Coastal Forest – World’s Largest Coastal Miyawaki Forest

About the Project –

Nargol, a tranquil coastal village in Gujarat’s Valsad district, has now become home to the World’s Largest Coastal Forest created using the Japanese Miyawaki method. The initiative saw the plantation of over 1,20,000 native trees in just 40 days — a record-setting feat in rapid afforestation.

This project has not only revived barren coastal land but also created a thriving green habitat for birds, wildlife, and nature lovers.

Location: Nargol, Umargam Taluka, Valsad District, Gujarat
Organization: Forest Creators (Enviro-Creators Foundation)
(Hon)Dr. R.K. Nair & Dipen Jain (Founders)

Coastal Challenge, Passionate Solution –

Creating a forest right next to the sea came with serious environmental and technical hurdles:

  • Saline soil and salty air posed a threat to most plant species.
  • Windy conditions and sand erosion made it difficult for saplings to take root.
  • The fragile coastal ecosystem demanded careful planning to avoid ecological imbalance.

Yet, what seemed nearly impossible was made possible by the vision and passion of the Forest Creators Team. Drawing on their years of experience and relentless dedication to sustainability, they developed a unique, site-specific strategy:

  • They selected coastal-resilient native species that could survive and thrive in saline environments.
  • Used organic soil enrichment and wind-breaking shrub layers to protect young trees.
  • Engaged the local community to assist in monitoring and nurturing the early growth phase.

Methodology: The Miyawaki Technique –
Using the Miyawaki afforestation method, pioneered by Japanese botanist Dr. Akira Miyawaki, the forest was created by:

  • Selecting over 80 native species suited to the coastal climate.
  • Planting them in tight clusters to ensure rapid growth.
  • Enriching the soil organically and eliminating chemicals.
  • Creating a multi-layered forest structure (shrubs, subtrees, trees, and canopy species).

The result- A self-sustaining mini-forest that will mature 10x faster than a conventional forest and will become maintenance-free within 2–3 years.

Key Highlights –

  • Trees Planted: 1,20,000+ native saplings
  • Duration: 40 days
  • Area: Coastal belt adjoining Malvan Beach
  • Method: Dense plantation using the Miyawaki Technique
  • Initiators: Dipen Jain (Founder) & Dr. R.K. Nair (Co-Founder)

Biodiversity Impact –

The Nargol Miyawaki forest is strategically located adjacent to Malvan Beach, an area already known to attract exotic bird species. With the completion of the forest:

  • Exotic bird sightings have significantly increased.
  • The new habitat is expected to double the exotic bird population in the area.
  • Native flora has created nesting grounds, making it a biodiversity hotspot.

The forest has seamlessly integrated into the local ecosystem, turning the beachside into a vibrant ecological zone.

Before Forest Creator –

After Forest Creator –

Tourism & Environmental Impact –

This green initiative has added a new feather to Gujarat’s coastal tourism, transforming Nargol into a dual attraction for both eco-tourists and bird watchers.

  • Tourists visiting Malvan Beach now enjoy a lush green backdrop.
  • Environmentalists and nature lovers are using this forest as a living case study.
  • The project has created awareness and local engagement in conservation efforts.

Forest Creators’ Vision –

“We believe in practical climate action. Nargol’s Miyawaki forest is a testament to how fast and effectively green cover can be restored when science meets dedication.” – Dr. R.K. Nair

“Our goal was not just to plant trees, but to create a thriving ecosystem that gives back to nature and the community.” – Dipen Jain

Legacy & Future Plans –

The success of the Nargol project is inspiring replication across other coastal areas. Future initiatives include:

  1. Setting up eco-education trails within the forest.
  2. Creating bird-watching towers and interpretive centers.
  3. Expanding Miyawaki forests in other parts of Gujarat’s coastline.

Project Information

Location: Nargol

No. of Trees: 1,20,000+

Area Covered: Coastal belt adjoining Malvan Beach

Date: March 2021