Forest Files October 2012
IN THIS ISSUE
STANDING TALL: Big Time for Big Trees
Falling for Autumn
Credit: Hugh Morton/Wikimedia Commons
A possible banner year for fall foliage could be the result of a summer drought. Nevertheless, tourists will be flocking to different parts of the country to catch a glimpse of the brilliant reds, oranges and yellows. Everyone has their favorite destination, but each region is unique in viewing methods and colors.
Go on a “leaf peeping” adventure.
New American Forests’ Video
Credit: American Forests
We sent a videographer out with our CEO Scott Steen and some researchers in the Greater Yellowstone Area on a recent trip to continue our work in this endangered ecosystem. Check out this brand-new video that discusses the twin threats of mountain pine beetles and white pine blister rust facing Greater Yellowstone and the efforts underway to save this iconic landscape.
Watch our Endangered Western Forests video.
Transition for Tongass
Credit: Roderick Eime
Community members and business owners are changing the way they interact with Tongass National Forest. Environmental awareness and economic demands have created a need for stabilization and innovation when it comes to watersheds and the logging industries in Alaska. The area’s post-logging efforts have frustrated many, but community leaders are working towards change to protect their livelihoods and the old-growth forest.
A Golden Day for New Mexico
Credit: Frank Carey/Flickr
New Mexico is now home to two new units of the National Wildlife Refuge System. The Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge and the Rio Mora National Wildlife Refuge and Conservation Area were both added to the system on the same day. The locations will provide an opportunity for urban recreation and protection for bosques, wildlife and the Rio Mora watershed.
STANDING TALL: Big Time for Big Trees
Credit: The Wildlands Conservancy
The fall 2012 update to the National Register of Big Trees is complete. The fall register includes more than 40 new national champion trees.
“The wonderful big tree community has found some treasures for the register this fall, including a number of new champions for previously champion-less species. I also have a feeling that some of the new and dethroned champions will stir up some friendly competition for the spring 2013 edition.”
~Sheri Shannon, National Big Tree Program coordinator