Forest Files November 2012
IN THIS ISSUE
Strengthening Reforestation in Cuyamaca
STANDING TALL: The Man Who Measures Florida’s Champions
Native Respect for Trees
Credit: asterix611/Flickr
Native Americans have a long history of closeness with trees. From worship to utilizing the variety of resources that certain species provide, trees appear in several different aspects of native culture. In order to truly appreciate these features of our environment, it is important to understand how and why they have been revered.
Listen to the legends of a Northwest species and a historic Mid-Atlantic oak.
Recovering From Disaster
Credit: U.S. Forest Service
Following Superstorm Sandy, many may wonder how to rebuild the damaged ecosystems once housing, food and power have been restored. Trees and other natural features face several dangers during these types of disasters. Forests along coastlines, and other areas, have adapted and are able to regenerate, but this is not always the case. Replanting and other efforts are important to the recovery and maintenance of our natural landscapes.
See what really happens to forest ecosystems after a major natural disaster.
Strengthening Reforestation in Cuyamaca
Credit: American Forests
In 2003, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park in California suffered a devastating wildfire which destroyed 95 percent of the park’s mixed conifer forest. Recently, the park has received “registered” status by the Climate Action Reserve. This designation, along with Cuyamaca’s ongoing partnership with American Forests Global ReLeaf, has provided for significant progress and optimism for the future of this forest.
Discover the progress in Cuyamaca.
A Different Kind of Forest
Credit:Greg Ness/Flickr
Many people experience a forest ecosystem every day, without even realizing it. We’re working to highlight the importance of urban forests for clean air and water, public health and social well-being. We recently launched a new urban forests area on our website and this Thursday, November 15th, we’ll be profiling the work of 12 cities themselves with the release of our Urban Forests Case Studies.
Explore urban forests and American Forests work with urban areas.
STANDING TALL: The Man Who Measures Florida’s Champions
Credit: Mark Torok
With more than 220 champion trees measured, Mark Torok has helped Florida claim more titles than any other state in the National Register of Big Trees. As an experienced forester, representing multiple counties, he continues to apply his expertise to one of his many outdoor passions.
“Doing work for the National Big Tree Program and the Florida Champion Tree Program is probably my favorite aspect of my job. I enjoy seeing the excitement and happiness in the tree owners faces when they find out their tree is a champion.”
~Mark Torok