Check out what’s happened this week in forestry news!
Richard Powers’ latest book, “The Overstory,” focuses on the lives of nine people who are inspired by their reverence for trees to save old-growth forests from destruction — with unforeseen consequences. Powers did extensive research to include factual details about the importance of trees and forests to the environment.
In a project run by Trees for Life, a special mix of mushroom spores is being used to help restore the Great Caledonian Forest in the Scottish highlands. Mycorrhizal fungi will be added to the roots of saplings planned for planting this year, with the possibility of introducing this practice in the tree nursery as well.
Human Footprint Devastating Wildlife: An Article For Earth Day – moderndiplomacy
This series from Science describes the harmful impact of modern human presence on wildlife. One article discusses the negative effect of the human footprint on animal movement, another is about the negative impact that managed honeybees have on wildflowers and wild honeybees, and the final piece assesses the influence of plastic waste on disease in reef-building corals.
How Big Forests Solve Global Problems – The New York Times
Intact forests landscapes are able to maintain their native plant and animal life, and biophysical processes. This gives them the ability to help manage climate change by absorbing carbon emissions in large amounts. But that’s not the only reason intact forests are important: They also influence cultural diversity, and language in particular!