Skip to content

USDA & Forest Service Release National Inventory of Old-Growth Forests to Combat Climate Change

Discover the untapped potential of our mature forests. Together, we can restore and protect older forests to fight climate change.

This is an edited picture of a forest where we can see trees, path and the sky.
This is an edited picture of a forest where we can see trees, path and the sky.

USDA & Forest Service Release National Inventory of Old-Growth Forests to Combat Climate Change

The USDA and Forest Service have released a national inventory of mature and old-growth forests, a significant step in preserving older forests and combating climate change. The report, ordered by President Biden, reveals a crucial opportunity for restoration and conservation.

The inventory shows that while old-growth forests are dwindling, there's still hope. The public forest estate holds 32 million acres of old-growth and a substantial 80 million acres of mature forests. These mature forests can be restored to old-growth status, ensuring future generations have more older forests.

The report underscores the importance of these forests in mitigating climate change. Older forests act as major carbon sinks, absorbing and storing carbon dioxide. With over half of voters prioritizing climate change action, the public can now influence forest management policies to boost climate resilience.

The release of this inventory is an important milestone in conservation. It provides a clear path for restoring and protecting older forests, which are crucial for combating climate change. The public is encouraged to engage in forest management policies to ensure a sustainable future.

Read also:

Latest