Summer 2021 Archives - American Forests https://www.americanforests.org/issue/summer-2021/ Healthy forests are our pathway to slowing climate change and advancing social equity. Fri, 25 Feb 2022 19:40:16 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 https://www.americanforests.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/cropped-cropped-Knockout-Mark-512x512-1-32x32.jpg Summer 2021 Archives - American Forests https://www.americanforests.org/issue/summer-2021/ 32 32 The economic lifeblood of trees https://www.americanforests.org/magazine/article/the-economic-lifeblood-of-trees/ Sun, 06 Jun 2021 13:43:54 +0000 https://www.americanforests.org/article/the-economic-lifeblood-of-trees/ Take a look at some of the unique jobs generated by, and reliant on, forests and trees.

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]]> SUZANNE RADFORD KNOWS the power of forests to help heal the sick and stressed. Those incredible capabilities enabled her to turn a passion for nature into a career. She now guides and coaches people in ways to use the sights, sounds and smells of the woods to create a sense of calm — something referred to as “forest bathing.”

Radford is one of many people starting to realize that trees and, more broadly, forests are an engine for job creation. More than 106,000 people in the United States work directly with forests in jobs, such as conservation scientist, forest manager and logger, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

But many more have jobs that are linked to forests in less obvious ways. From science teachers to whiskey barrel makers to artists, people in myriad professions need forests and trees. In cities, park planners design urban oases that revolve around trees and the benefits they provide people. Sculp- tors carve wood reclaimed from old buildings into beautiful items that can be sold. And what would wildlife photographers do without forests that provide habitat for countless animals and birds?

Forests aren’t just something pretty to look at or walk through. They are the economic lifeblood for an increasing number of people in the U.S.

Forest Bathing Guide

Suzanne Radford is a certified forest bathing guide and forest therapy practitioner. She helps people connect to nature through excursions in the Serra de Monchique mountain range of the Iberian Peninsula in Southern Portugal. Years ago, Radford discovered a secret waterfall in a forest she frequently visits. Now she offers her clients a chance to sit beside water, watch its movement and flow and listen as it cascades over the rocks. She encourages forest bathers to imagine the role the waterfall plays in feeding the mountain and surrounding forest, and to let the water wash over their hands and feet.

Lying on the trunk of an oak tree, Radford listens to a soundscape of birdsong and insects humming. A growing body of research shows that time spent in nature helps boost people’s moods and reduces anxiety and stress. Companies hire her as a nature coach to help their employees manage stress through time spent outdoors.
Lying on the trunk of an oak tree, Radford listens to a soundscape of birdsong and insects humming. A growing body of research shows that time spent in nature helps boost people’s moods and reduces anxiety and stress. Companies hire her as a nature coach to help their employees manage stress through time spent outdoors. Credit: Michael Mardon.
 
Left: Suzanne Radford is a certified forest bathing guide and forest therapy practitioner. She helps people connect to nature through excursions in the Serra de Monchique mountain range of the Iberian Peninsula in Southern Portugal. Years ago, Radford discovered a secret waterfall in a forest she frequently visits. Now she offers her clients a chance to sit beside water, watch its movement and flow and listen as it cascades over the rocks. She encourages forest bathers to imagine the role the waterfall plays in feeding the mountain and surrounding forest, and to let the water wash over their hands and feet. Credit: Michael Mardon.

Park Planner

Once they have identified a site for a park, planners like Lau create a vision for the space. Here is his rendering of a pocket park proposed for Walnut Park, a community in Los Angeles County with very few trees and parks compared to other communities. Once grown, the trees included here will help improve air quality and cool down the neighborhood on hot days.
Once they have identified a site for a park, planners like Lau create a vision for the space. Here is his rendering of a pocket park proposed for Walnut Park, a community in Los Angeles County with very few trees
and parks compared to other communities. Once grown, the trees included here will help improve air quality and cool down the neighborhood on hot days. Credit: Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation.
 
Right: As a park planner for the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation, Clement Lau analyzes data, such as demographics, existing parkland, trees and transportation, to determine which unincorporated areas need parks the most. In places like Los Angeles County, parks are considered key infrastructure for quality of life, and trees are a major component of park planning. Here, Lau enjoys an afternoon at Arcadia County Park, which he frequents with his family. Credit: Susan Lau.

Right: As a park planner for the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation, Clement Lau analyzes data, such as demographics, existing parkland, trees and transportation, to determine which unincorporated areas need parks the most. In places like Los Angeles County, parks are considered key infrastructure for quality of life, and trees are a major component of park planning. Here, Lau enjoys an afternoon at Arcadia County Park, which he frequents with his family.

Wood Sculptor

Canadian-based sculptor Patricia Aitkenhead’s carved animals make popular pendants and totems. But her business started with a classic debate: cats or dogs? As a way to settle the issue, she crafted a chess set comprised of a team of cats and a team of dogs. She chose breeds with traits she thought might fit their position on the board. Here, these pugs are the pawns.

Canadian-based sculptor Patricia Aitkenhead’s carved animals make popular pendants and totems. But her business started with a classic debate: cats or dogs? As a way to settle the issue, she crafted a chess set comprised of a team of cats and a team of dogs. She chose breeds with traits she thought might fit their position on the board. Here, these pugs are the pawns.
Canadian-based sculptor Patricia Aitkenhead’s carved animals make popular pendants and totems. But her business started with a classic debate: cats or dogs? As a way to settle the issue, she crafted a chess set comprised of a team of cats and a team of dogs. She chose breeds with traits she thought might fit their position on the board. Here, these pugs are the pawns. Credit: Patrick L. Whalen.

Barrel Makers

Securing top and bottom barrel heads is one of the last touches in barrel production. Here, an employee at Kentucky Cooperage is placing the head hoop on a barrel.
Securing top and bottom barrel heads is one of the last touches in barrel production. Here, an employee at Kentucky Cooperage is placing the head hoop on a barrel. Credit: Independent Stave Company.
Oak barrels being charred at Kentucky Cooperage in Lebanon, Ky. The charred American oak barrel is a cornerstone of American whiskey, and white oaks specifically are used in the aging of bourbon. Barrel makers char spirit barrels to create flavor, color, aroma, a char layer that acts as a filter, and to break down the wood cell walls so the spirit can extract flavors from the oak.
Oak barrels being charred at Kentucky Cooperage in Lebanon, Ky. The charred American oak barrel is a cornerstone of American whiskey, and white oaks specifically are used in the aging of bourbon. Barrel makers char spirit barrels to create flavor, color, aroma, a char layer that acts as a filter, and to break down the wood cell walls so the spirit can extract flavors from the oak. Credit: Independent Stave Company.

Production Arborist

Benyah Andressohn was 6 when he started climbing trees. Little did he know he would find his calling up in those branches. In high school he wanted a job that would pose a daily challenge, change the environment and allow him to use his brain. Becoming an arborist made perfect sense.
Benyah Andressohn was 6 when he started climbing trees. Little did he know he would find his calling up in those branches. In high school he wanted a job that would pose a daily challenge, change the environment and allow him to use his brain. Becoming an arborist made perfect sense. Credit: Day’s Edge Productions / American Forests.
Andressohn works for True Tree Service in Miami, where he is a production arborist, trained to safely ascend and descend trees in order to care for them. Our cities need many more like him. Urban forestry is expected to see a 10% increase in job openings for entry-level positions by 2028.
Andressohn works for True Tree Service in Miami, where he is a production arborist, trained to safely ascend and descend trees in order to care for them. Our cities need many more like him. Urban forestry is expected to see a 10% increase in job openings for entry-level positions by 2028. Credit: Day’s Edge Productions / American Forests.

Wildlife Photographer

Richard Cronberg has been photographing wildlife for 40 years and sells his photos commercially in art shows, fundraising events, retail stores and online. Perhaps best known for his bird photos, Cronberg here is capturing a group of Snow and Ross’s Geese taking flight at Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge in California.
Richard Cronberg has been photographing wildlife for 40 years and sells his photos commercially in art shows, fundraising events, retail stores and online. Perhaps best known for his bird photos, Cronberg here is capturing a group of Snow and Ross’s Geese taking flight at Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge in California. Credit: Russell Cronberg.
Here, he has photographed a northern pygmy owl, which make their homes in dense forests near streams in Canada, the United States and Mexico. Songbirds are the northern pygmy owl’s favorite meal, so it can often be found near a group of agitated songbirds that gather to scold it.
Here, Cronberg has photographed a northern pygmy owl, which make their homes in dense forests near streams in Canada, the United States and Mexico. Songbirds are the northern pygmy owl’s favorite meal, so it can often be found near a group of agitated songbirds that gather to scold it. Credit: Richard Cronberg.
The tree swallow, found throughout much of North America, makes its nests in the cavities of trees. But when it emerges, this beautiful acrobatic bird chases flying insects through fields and wetlands.
The tree swallow, found throughout much of North America, makes its nests in the cavities of trees. But when it emerges, this beautiful acrobatic bird chases flying insects through fields and wetlands. Credit: Richard Cronberg.

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]]> Landowners key to restoring the native forests of the Lower Rio Grande Valley https://www.americanforests.org/article/landowners-key-to-restoring-the-native-forests-of-the-lower-rio-grande-valley-2/ Sun, 06 Jun 2021 12:58:47 +0000 https://www.americanforests.org/article/landowners-key-to-restoring-the-native-forests-of-the-lower-rio-grande-valley-2/ American Forests is partnering with rancher Betty Perez and other private landowners to restore native thornforest habitat in South Texas.

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Betty Perez runs a ranch in La Joya, Texas, that has been in her family for generations. She is helping restore wild areas of the Lower Rio Grande Valley. Here, Perez and Kim Wahl- Villarreal, formerly with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in the Valley, are picking seeds on the Perez Ranch. Photo Credit: James Foguth / American Forests

IN TEXAS’S LOWER RIO GRANDE VALLEY, Betty Perez leans over a tender catclaw acacia in the nursery on her family’s cattle ranch. She’s pleased with the progress of the native plant that she’s growing to help restore her generational family land. The ranch’s future is increasingly threatened by the shifts in temperature and rainfall brought on by climate change.

“It doesn’t bring a lot of money, but it brings a lot of gratification,” she says, referring to her revegetation work. She learned how to grow and plant these native species during her time with Friends of the Wildlife Corridor, a nonprofit group dedicated to protecting and restoring the Santa Ana and Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuges. She was previously the organization’s president and now serves as a board member.

Perez studied botany at the University of Texas before returning to reclaim this piece of family heritage and “to get to know the land,” as she puts it. She sells her native plants, such as yucca, catclaw acacia and wolfberry, to the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), which uses them to restore swaths of farmland back to this dynamic, but threatened, native habitat.

Less than 10% of the Rio Grande Valley’s native forest ecosystem, Tamaulipan thornforest, remains. Many of Perez’s neighbors have completely removed this habitat from their land, and there are huge pressures to sell what remains to developers who want to put in subdivisions — the most lucrative option. There’s also a movement to industrialize the nearby Gulf Coast to mine liquefied natural gas. And beyond these threats to the native habitat, there is the looming challenge of climate change.

The upshot of all of this? Many native animals dependent on these forests will eventually run out of space and resources. There also won’t be enough trees to help purify the air people in the Valley breathe and the water they drink. Flood risks will be higher. And a major part of the Valley’s natural heritage will be lost.

To address this situation, American Forests founded the Thornforest Conservation Partnership in 2018 to bring together communities, researchers, industry representatives, agencies and private landowners — like Perez. The group develops science-based plans and goals for conserving the region’s thornforest ecosystem in places that make the most sense for both wildlife and people. Reforesting public land is a major component, and Perez and other local nursery owners provide trees for that effort.

The hope is to preserve this unique corner of the U.S., which supports 1,200 plant species, 300 butterflies and more than 700 vertebrates, including the endangered ocelot.

Nearly all “of the original habitat is gone, and yet this is a very biodiverse area, an important area,” Perez notes. One reason it’s important is that several flyways for bird and butterfly migration traverse the Valley, which sits between wintering zones in Central and South America and summer homes in the U.S. and Canada.

Perez is concerned by the pressures the area faces, but she sees many of her neighbors starting to make changes in their land management practices due to a growing awareness of environmental issues and concern with the effects of climate change.

“They’re not clearing the whole land,” she says. “A lot of them are doing really good work.”

Mike Heep, a private nursery owner, delivers seedlings to a USFWS site in the Valley.
Mike Heep, a private nursery owner, delivers seedlings to a USFWS site in the Valley. Photo Credit: James Foguth / American Forests
Florentino Caldera from USFWS examines seedlings in the nursery at the Perez Ranch.
Florentino Caldera from USFWS examines seedlings in the nursery at the Perez Ranch. Photo Credit: James Foguth / American Forests
Collecting seeds of native species is the first step in propagating trees that will restore the threatened habitats in this area.
Collecting seeds of native species is the first step in propagating trees that will restore the threatened habitats in this area. Photo Credit: James Foguth / American Forests
Alisa Gonzalez from the Student Conservation Association (SCA) and Wahl-Villarreal look through seed storage at a USFWS site.
Alisa Gonzalez from the Student Conservation Association (SCA) and Wahl-Villarreal look through seed storage at a USFWS site. Photo Credit: James Foguth / American Forests
This photo of Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge clearly depicts how thornforest habitat has to compete with other land uses like farming and shows the value of protected lands in providing water resources and forest cover for wildlife — needs that will be magnified under climate change scenarios for the region.
This photo of Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge clearly depicts how thornforest habitat has to compete with other land uses like farming and shows the value of protected lands in providing water resources and forest cover for wildlife — needs that will be magnified under climate change scenarios for the region. Photo Credit: Givewith
Gonzalez dries seeds at a USFWS site. Young people do much of the on-the-ground conservation work for this project.
Gonzalez dries seeds at a USFWS site. Young people do much of the on-the-ground conservation work for this project. Photo Credit: James Foguth / American Forests
The Valley retains less than 10% of its native forests, making the collection of native seeds essential.
The Valley retains less than 10% of its native forests, making the collection of native seeds essential. Photo Credit: James Foguth / American Forests
Jon Dale, senior manager for American Forests in the Lower Rio Grande Valley, checks on shelter tubes, which protect seedlings from herbivores and provide soil moisture.
Jon Dale, senior manager for American Forests in the Lower Rio Grande Valley, checks on shelter tubes, which protect seedlings from herbivores and provide soil moisture. Photo Credit: Jack Gordon / American Forests
Volunteers from SCA pick seeds at the Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge in Alamo, Texas. Photo Credit: James Foguth / American Forests
Dale, Rene Ruiz (USFWS), Erica Leiserowitz (SCA) and William Rechin (SCA) walk through Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge in Alamo, Texas.
Dale, Rene Ruiz (USFWS), Erica Leiserowitz (SCA) and William Rechin (SCA) walk through Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge in Alamo, Texas. Photo Credit: James Foguth / American Forests
Perez finds great satisfaction in knowing her work is helping to restore crucial habitat to the region.
Perez finds great satisfaction in knowing her work is helping to restore crucial habitat to the region. Photo Credit: Jack Gordon / American Forests

Katherine Gustafson is a freelance writer specializing in helping mission-driven changemakers like tech disruptors and dynamic nonprofits tell their stories.

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]]> 2021 Forests in Focus Photo Contest winners https://www.americanforests.org/magazine/article/2021-forests-in-focus-photo-contest-winners/ Fri, 04 Jun 2021 15:58:18 +0000 https://www.americanforests.org/article/2021-forests-in-focus-photo-contest-winners/ See the stunning photography that earned top honors in this year’s Forests in Focus photo contest.

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]]> AMERICAN FORESTS’ ANNUAL PHOTO CONTEST IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO SHOWCASE a wide array of forest scenes — from large wilderness areas to city parks — that are just as beautiful and diverse as the people who live among, enjoy and depend on them. A panel of six judges, including professional photographers, adventure seekers and individuals with an eye for nature, assessed photos on the criteria of originality, technical quality and artistic merit. After nearly 1,500 total submissions, these are the incredible photos that took home the top honors.

WINNER, GRAND PRIZE: “KINDRED SPIRIT”

PHOTOGRAPHER: Dave Shaffer (Wis.)
PHOTOGRAPHER’S PROSPECTIVE: “This beautiful bear quietly observed as I exited a darkening forest in Wisconsin. There was an indescribable connection. Her gentle gaze showed no fear or anxiety. It was simply two souls sharing a special moment.”
ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER: Schaffer is a photographer whose work can be viewed at www.bearwitnessimages.com.
WHY WE LOVED IT: “‘Kindred Spirit’ is an extraordinary image in so many ways. Most notably, I feel it conveys the emotion present in this beautiful creature and our connectedness with nature. In terms of image design, it’s a wonderfully simple image with calming balance and flow.” — Scott Kranz

WINNER, FOREST LANDSCAPES: “ENDURANCE IN THE KENAI FJORDS”

"Endurance in the Kenai Fjords" by Patricia Gilhooly

PHOTOGRAPHER: Patricia Gilhooly (N.J.)
PHOTOGRAPHER’S PROSPECTIVE: “On a stormy day, my husband and I took a Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise, which brought us close to the coastal fjords and tidewater glaciers of the Hatfield Icefield. As we headed back to Seward, Alaska, the fog finally began to lift, revealing the stunning scope of the landscape at Resurrection Bay on the Kenai Peninsula.”
ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER: Gilhooly is an amateur photographer whose work can be viewed at www.PGimages.com.
WHY WE LOVED IT: “The photo ‘Endurance in the Kenai Fjords’ captures the dramatic beauty that Alaska’s forest possess. It showcases the powerful relationship between water and trees — which are intertwined at the deepest level. The contrast of colors mimics the weather, the feel, the energy — that IS Alaska.” — Brittany Dyer

WINNER, BIG, BEAUTIFUL TREES: “THE FAERIE TREE”

"The Faerie Tree" by Bradley Joyce

PHOTOGRAPHER: Bradley Joyce (Texas)
PHOTOGRAPHER’S PERSPECTIVE: “There is something special about this tree, found in Hillsboro, Ore., that even this photo doesn’t capture. After many failed attempts over several days, this composition finally worked. The tree itself radiates a prescient wisdom that compels you to sit below it and wait for some kind of revelation.”
ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER: Joyce is a landscape photographer whose work can be viewed at www.bradleyjoyce.com.
WHY WE LOVE IT: “This was one of my favorite images from the selection. The lighting perfectly complements the very dramatic and unique composition. The bright hanging moss lining the branches of the tree stand out in pleasing contrast to the dark pine trees in the background.” — Christopher Celentano

WINNER, FORESTS AND PEOPLE: “MAMA MAPLE”

"Mama Maple" by Josh Clague

PHOTOGRAPHER: Josh Clague (N.Y.)
PHOTOGRAPHER’S PERSPECTIVE: “We heard about Mama Maple from the proprietor of the Bark Eater Inn, in Keene, N.Y., where we were staying. Even from a distance, its presence, both inviting and protective, immediately drew the children under its canopy, where they continued to play for quite some time.”
ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER: Clague is a natural resources planner for the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
WHY WE LOVED IT: “Mama Maple is such a memorable photo. The details of this photo tells a story. The warm contrast color makes you feel comfortable. The leaves reminds you of the season. And the suns rays remind you of joy and happiness. This photo could remind anyone of childhood: the peace, joy and innocence! Pictures are worth 1,000 words, but this one’s worth 1 million; to invoke such memory in a person is a gift.” — Eben Dente

WINNER, ASPIRING PHOTOGRAPHERS: “BLUE HERON”

PHOTOGRAPHER: Kaiden Deck (Ohio)
PHOTOGRAPHER’S PERSPECTIVE: “I was walking down a trail in Mohican State Park in Ohio when I spotted a blue heron through the trees. I quietly crept closer to get the shot. The heron went on with its business, dipping its head in the freezing water. When he looked up at me, I snapped the picture.”
ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER: Deck, 14, is an upcoming sophomore in high school and aspiring photographer who is intrigued and inspired by nature.
WHY WE LOVED IT: “‘Blue Heron’ is a stunning image that conveys the elegance of the blue heron within its environment. The color and design of this visual is striking and provides a journey for the viewer.” — Scott Kranz

WINNER, FOREST CLOSE-UPS: “MOSSY MUSHROOMS”

"Mossy Mushrooms" by Kathleen O'NeilPHOTOGRAPHER: Kathleen O’Neil (Mass.)
PHOTOGRAPHER’S PERSPECTIVE: “Rain poured onto the forest floor while moss crawled up the sides of trees and down onto their limbs on the Tonsina Point Trail in Seward, Alaska. Mushrooms and lichen peeked out of rocks and stumps. Surrounded by dynamic life in the rainforest, time stood still, and these mossy mushrooms posed for a close-up.”
ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER: O’Neil is an adventure seeker and amateur photographer.
WHY WE LOVED IT: “I have always loved simplicity in imagery. This image really defines a simple temperate forest scene, but on a tiny scale. The rich tones and composition really help put the viewer in the scene.” — Christopher Celentano

WINNER, CITYSCAPES SPLENDOR: “WILLOW IN THE CATHEDRAL”

"Willow in the Cathedra" by Amanda Siedschlag

PHOTOGRAPHER: Amanda Siedschlag (Ore.)
PHOTOGRAPHER’S PERSPECTIVE: “On my day off, I visited Cathedral Park in Portland, Ore., and decided to bring my camera. It was a rainy day, but during a moment of sunshine, this willow under St. John’s Bridge was illuminated bright gold in all its autumn glory.”
ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER: Siedschlag is an amateur photographer who enjoys capturing nature.
WHY WE LOVED IT: “Faith, concrete and nature are the words that come to mind when I see ‘Willow in the Cathedral.’ Often, I see nature wrapping around cities and man made structures. This photo, frames the visual weight of the city wrapping around nature like a jewel. The willow tree is a great warm color and is excellent contrast to the cold, inorganic city around it. the intentional use of color directly addresses the themes of the magnificent features and qualities of nature existing in the city.” — James Foguth

WINNER, NATURE AS ART: “A GOLDEN WONDERLAND”

PHOTOGRAPHER: Robyn Wilson (Wash.)
PHOTOGRAPHER’S PERSPECTIVE: “The location of this tree, nestled in Seattle, Wash., felt magical to me, with so much bright golden color and a space within it where it felt as though I could step away into another world.”
ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER: Wilson has spent 15 years passionately pursuing landscape and nature photography.
WHY WE LOVED IT: “‘A Golden Wonderland’ is a beautiful example of using shallow depth of field to create an interesting and artful image. The sharp focus on the tree juxtaposed with the blurred leaves, and the movement in the center of the image, keeps the eye moving around the image.  That’s exactly what you want, for the viewer to want to stay in the moment that the image captures.” — Jenny Nichols

WINNER, FOREST WILDLIFE: “PENSIVE WOODPECKER”

PHOTOGRAPHER: Michele Walfred (Del.)
PHOTOGRAPHER’S PERSPECTIVE: “With a major Nor’easter in the forecast, I set out some seed and suet in my wooded front yard, which this red-bellied woodpecker enjoyed. After a good meal, it seemed to anticipate the impending storm and stayed quiet, in this position for some time!”
ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER: Walfred is a communications specialist for the University of Delaware, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
WHY WE LOVED IT: “‘Pensive Woodpecker’ is flawless in every way possible. I love the contrast of the dark, cool grey, and blues are all over the picture. The red steals the attention, giving notices to the subject. The use of space makes me feel like the photographer really knew what they were doing. It takes a certain amount of skill to take bird photos, and the clarity and focus shows the photographer’s experience.” — Eben Dente

HONORABLE MENTIONS

“Sawtooth Sunset” by Douglas Keder

"Sawtooth Sunset" by Douglas Keder

“From the Outside In” by Kinley Bollinger

"From the Outside In" by Kinley Bollinger

“Looking Up” by Ruth Gitto

“Looking Up” by Ruth Gitto

“Marvelous Marbled Orb Weaver” by Peggy Yaeger

“Marvelous Marbled Orb Weaver” by Peggy Yaeger

ABOUT THE JUDGES

American Forests was honored to have the following six incredible judges on our panel for the 2021 Forests in Focus Photo Contest.

Scott Kranz

Scott Kranz

Scott Kranz is a Seattle-based photographer and filmmaker specializing in outdoor sports and landscapes, as well as an avid hiker, mountaineer and skier in the Cascade Range and beyond.

Jenny Nichols

Jenny Nichols

Jenny Nichols is a filmmaker, photographer and illustrator who thrives on multidisciplinary projects that act as tipping points in conservation campaigns. 

Christopher Celentano

Christopher Celentano

Chris Celentano is an Idaho-based photographer who specializes in outdoor adventure and landscapes, while also being an active all-season climber, kayaker and hiker in and around the remote regions of North Idaho and the greater Pacific Northwest. 

Eben Dente

Eben Dente

Eben Dente is an international freelance photographer and artist. He is also the founder of E De Media and CreativesOD, a multimedia platform and service provided for the community, which allows people to express themselves creatively through their art and media outlets.

Brittany Dyer

Brittany Dyer

Brittany Dyer serves as American Forests’ California state director. While she spends much of her time in the field helping American Forests expand the implementation of climate-smart restoration treatments, she also has a natural eye for photography, creativity and how to beautifully capture the forest environment.

James Foguth

James Foguth

James Foguth is a Navajo filmmaker and founder of Nizhoni Films. He grew up in Luckachukai, Ariz., on the Navajo Nation. Storytelling in Navajo culture is a way to teach spirituality and life lessons. Foguth has contributed to countless video and photo projects, including projects for ESPNU, the Audience Network, HBO and the Bahai Faith. 

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]]> Offshoots: America needs a forest bath https://www.americanforests.org/magazine/article/offshoots-america-needs-a-forest-bath/ Thu, 03 Jun 2021 16:52:26 +0000 https://www.americanforests.org/article/offshoots-america-needs-a-forest-bath/ A word from our president and chief executive officer

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]]> Daley and his family hike along Vermont’s Long Trail in Hazen’s Notch State Park. Pictured are Jad Daley (front), (from left to right) his nephew Connor Stevenson, brother-in-law Ken Stevenson, sister Shannon Daley-Harris and mother, Patti Daley.
Daley and his family hike along Vermont’s Long Trail in Hazen’s Notch State Park. Pictured are Jad Daley (front), (from left to right) his nephew Connor Stevenson, brother-in-law Ken Stevenson, sister Shannon Daley-Harris and mother, Patti Daley. Credit: Courtesy of Jad Daley.

IN TOUGH TIMES — like the COVID-19 pandemic — we often learn important lessons. One such lesson for me has been the close connection between my mental health and ability to connect with the outdoors. More than just an interesting “aha” moment, I believe that this realization calls me, American Forests and all of us to action.

You will note that I did not say a connection to “nature” or even “forests.” For me and, I believe, many others, our most frequent connection to the outdoors is a long way from the wildlands Aldo Leopold explored. It’s right outside our front door.

Just being able to walk under the leaves and hear birds on a tree-lined street, or have a shaded path for running and biking on a hot day, can make all the difference. In my own life, it has been incredibly valuable to be able to come out of my basement office and simply enjoy the trees in my backyard, as well as the small urban forest I am blessed to have at the end of my street.

But we also have a need, clearer now than ever, for big outdoor adventures. You have probably read about the record numbers of people visiting our national parks during the pandemic, in some cases pushing those places to their breaking point.

My wife and I love to visit Shenandoah National Park and the George Washington National Forest, both of which are less than two hours from our home. I used to wonder why we didn’t see more people in these places.

Daley has found continual solace during the day by walking to Forest Park right at the end of his street.
Daley has found continual solace during the day by walking to Forest Park right at the
end of his street. Credit: Courtesy of Jad Daley.

Not anymore. Now we have had to aim for “off hours” windows to visit our close-to-home parks because they are so heavily trafficked on the weekends it has not always felt possible to manage social distancing while on the trails. This difficulty has been seen across the nation, posing a huge challenge for public land managers and the people who go to these places.

One of the main reasons for this is that we have had fewer structured activities, like youth sports and concerts, competing for our time. But equally important is that the overwhelming intensity of sitting in just one place and having endless screen time day after day has prompted a raw physical need to balance our digital stimuli with the opposite — the sounds and experiences of being in nature.

To address this, American Forests is doubling down on its commitment to Tree Equity. Simply put, Tree Equity is about ensuring every neighborhood has enough trees so that every person can reap the benefits that trees have to offer — such as calming our minds on busy Zoom days. Soon we will roll out Tree Equity scores for every urbanized area in the United States. City government employees, community activists, urban foresters and others can use the scores to make the case for planting trees in the neighborhoods that need them most — notably, neighborhoods subjected to disinvestment and discrimination — and allocate the resources needed to do so.

We also need to create more “big nature” opportunities outside our communities, ideally reachable by large numbers of people in different ways, including public transit. American Forests has planted 65 million trees since 1990. We need to step this up in close-to-home places that can expand accessible outdoor experiences for all.

American Forests promotes Tree Equity and close-to-home natural areas as a focus for tree planting efforts through the 1t.org US Chapter, the trillion trees platform that includes entities ranging from governments and companies to Girl Scouts and faith groups.

Finally, we need to speak for time under the trees as life moves into a post-pandemic mode. Those happy faces I have seen on the bustling trails suggest to me that we have rediscovered something really important by taking away, temporarily, other things that have come to dominate our time. I hope we can help remind America of the healing power from mixing more outside time into our busy modern lives, and influence more people to do so.

Our forests have never needed us more, and we have never needed them more, too. Thank you for everything you help make possible at American Forests.

For more news and updates from Jad, follow him on Twitter @JadDaley.

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]]> Partner Profile: LightStream reforests, from coast to coast https://www.americanforests.org/magazine/article/partner-profile-lightstream-reforests-from-coast-to-coast-2/ Thu, 03 Jun 2021 16:37:34 +0000 https://www.americanforests.org/article/partner-profile-lightstream-reforests-from-coast-to-coast-2/ Learn about our far-reaching partnership with LightStream, which is nearing a major milestone.

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]]> Rugged peaks and glacier-carved canyons of the Bitterroot National Forest provide a magnificent landscape for hikers and a home for big horn sheep and mountain lions. LightStream’s first donation to American Forests in 2013 helped restore acres of this Montana forest burned by wildfire.
Rugged peaks and glacier-carved canyons of the Bitterroot National Forest provide a magnificent landscape for hikers and a home for big horn sheep and mountain lions. LightStream’s first donation to American Forests in 2013 helped restore acres of this Montana forest burned by wildfire. Credit: Nicholas Courtney / Shutterstock.

IN 2013, THE NEW online lending company LightStream was looking for a way to do good in the world that also felt like part of the company’s DNA.

LightStream’s loans were already paperless, which had a direct positive impact on trees and forests. But the company wanted to pour more energy and resources into forest conservation and decided to partner with American Forests to help restore fire-damaged wilderness areas by donating a tree for every loan it funded.

“The idea was to find a partner or cause that would allow us to give back in a greater way that was related to our story,” says Kristin Shuff, LightStream’s senior vice president of marketing. “What better way to give back than to do even more to support trees.”

LightStream’s support for forest restoration has spanned 23 states and several critical ecosystems, including the Lower Rio Grande Valley, home to the endangered ocelot.
LightStream’s support for forest restoration has spanned 23 states and several critical ecosystems, including the Lower Rio Grande Valley, home to the endangered ocelot. Credit: Saad Nourdine / Adobe Stock.

What began as a focus on post-wildfire recovery in Montana has blossomed over eight years into a robust long-term slate of coast-to-coast projects, from restoring degraded watersheds in California, to supporting urban tree planting efforts in Miami and Houston, to helping educate the public about the value of trees.

And soon, the company expects to celebrate a major milestone — 1 million trees.

“It is an incredible accomplishment to have supported the restoration of so many essential forests,” says Jad Daley, president and chief executive officer of American Forests. “With projects in 23 states, LightStream has helped bring back to life forests that we rely on to purify our air and water, slow climate change and provide habitat for wildlife and recreational areas for people.”

Each time LightStream funds a loan, the company sends its customers a notification that a tree has been planted on their behalf.

“Our American Forests partnership is a reflection of LightStream’s culture and purpose,” Shuff says. “Supporting the environmental and educational efforts of American Forests fits closely with the values we support for our company, our teammates and our customers.”

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]]> History: A century-long legacy reignited https://www.americanforests.org/magazine/article/history-a-century-long-legacy-reignited-2/ Thu, 03 Jun 2021 16:26:29 +0000 https://www.americanforests.org/article/history-a-century-long-legacy-reignited-2/ American Forests and Girl Scouts of the USA announce a new initiative together, continuing a partnership that dates back to 1921.

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]]> GSUSA, with 2.5 million members, helps encourage and inspire girls to make a difference in the world, including for the environment, making their new initiative with American Forests a perfect fit.
GSUSA, with 2.5 million members, helps encourage and inspire girls to make a difference in the world, including for the environment, making their new initiative with American Forests a perfect fit. Credit: GSUSA.

THIS APRIL, Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) and American Forests announced a new initiative called the Tree Promise — together, planting and protecting 5 million trees in five years across the United States. But American Forests’ work with GSUSA dates back a century, to 1921, when First Lady Florence Harding simultaneously served as honorary president of the Girl Scouts and vice president of American Forests.

First Lady Florence Harding joins Girl Scouts of the USA on Earth Day in 1922.
First Lady Florence Harding joins Girl Scouts of the USA on Earth Day in 1922. Credit: National Photo Company Collection, Library of Congress.
Harding, a vice president of American Forests, helps kick off a 1921 memorial tree planting initiative focused on trees in cities.
Harding, a vice president of American Forests, helps kick off a 1921 memorial tree planting initiative focused on trees in cities. Credit: American Forests.
A letter from Girl Scouts President Helen H. Means that was published in an American Forests publication from the mid-1900s.
A letter from Girl Scouts President Helen H. Means that was published in an American Forests publication from the mid-1900s.

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]]> The Understory: How many trees do our cities need? https://www.americanforests.org/magazine/article/the-understory-how-many-trees-do-our-cities-need/ Thu, 03 Jun 2021 16:07:01 +0000 https://www.americanforests.org/article/the-understory-how-many-trees-do-our-cities-need/ A new study reveals how to advance Tree Equity by planting 31.4 million trees.

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]]> A new study reveals how to advance Tree Equity by planting 31.4 million trees.

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]]> Family Tree Strings https://www.americanforests.org/magazine/article/family-tree-strings-2/ Thu, 03 Jun 2021 15:58:15 +0000 https://www.americanforests.org/article/family-tree-strings-2/ Graphic designer Carla Delgado creates a project that reflects her family and their love of trees.

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]]> Graphic designer Carla Delgado creates a project that reflects her family and their love of trees.

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]]> A place to call home https://www.americanforests.org/magazine/article/a-place-to-call-home-2/ Mon, 31 May 2021 18:17:08 +0000 https://www.americanforests.org/article/a-place-to-call-home-2/ The dynamic partnership between forests and wildlife.

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]]> WHETHER BURROWED below the forest floor, nested among branches or denned beneath downed trees, countless creatures call forests home. In fact, 80% of all land-based species live in forests.

But it’s far from a one-sided relationship. While forests provide habitat and food for wildlife, many wildlife species return the favor, nourishing their forest homes by dispersing and germinating seeds, controlling threatening pests and more.

This dynamic partnership benefits forests in other ways as well. Often, the vibrancy and anticipation of spotting wildlife is what draws people to forests. While there, they can find adventure and emotionally connect with nature, which, ultimately, creates a desire to protect it.

When that happens, we help ensure these creatures have a place to call home — forever.

Bears make their dens in the depths of the forest, but it is their diet that returns the favor. They help fertizile the forest floor by dragging fish carcasses throughout the forest, and even their own scat enriches the soil. Additionally, bears’ love of fruit helps distribute undigested seed in different parts of forest ecosystems, generating new plant growth.
Bears make their dens in the depths of the forest, but it is their diet that returns the favor. They help fertilize the forest floor by dragging fish carcasses throughout the forest, and even their own scat enriches the soil. Additionally, bears’ love of fruit helps distribute undigested seed in different parts of forest ecosystems, generating new plant growth. Credit: Maria Harvey / Shutterstock.
Some trees are incredibly dependent on wildlife for species survival. Clark’s nutcrackers crack open whitebark pine cones, extract their seeds and bury them for future consumption. However, many of those seeds remain in the ground, uneaten. The Clark’s nutcracker is the only animal that buries the seeds in such a way that they can germinate and, ultimately, become full grown whitebark pines.
Some trees are incredibly dependent on wildlife for species survival. Clark’s nutcrackers crack open whitebark pine cones, extract their seeds and bury them for future consumption. However, many of those seeds remain in the ground, uneaten. The Clark’s nutcracker is the only animal that buries the seeds in such a way that they can germinate and, ultimately, become full grown whitebark pines. Credit: Allison_H / Shutterstock.
Owls nest high in the tree tops, but their forest presence is far more important than one might think. Some species, such as the northern spotted owl, prefer dense old-growth forests. When present, these owls serve as indicators of forest health and play a role in land management aimed at protecting these remaining old-growth forests.
Owls nest high in the tree tops, but their forest presence is far more important than one might think. Some species, such as the northern spotted owl, prefer dense old-growth forests. When present, these owls serve as indicators of forest health and play a role in land management aimed at protecting these remaining old-growth forests. Credit: Aria_RJWarren / Shutterstock.
Some animals bite off more than they can chew. And, in the case of the puma, which can take down big game much larger than themselves, their leftovers can feed a wide range of smaller scavengers.
Some animals bite off more than they can chew. And, in the case of the puma, which can take down big game much larger than themselves, their leftovers can feed a wide range of smaller scavengers. Credit: Photocech / Adobe Stock.

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]]> Forests: The protector of water https://www.americanforests.org/magazine/article/forests-the-protector-of-water/ Mon, 31 May 2021 17:55:26 +0000 https://www.americanforests.org/article/forests-the-protector-of-water/ Just as water is life, healthy forests are as well.

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]]> More than half of America’s drinking water originates in forests — mainly from the rivers and streams that run through them.
More than half of America’s drinking water originates in forests — mainly from the rivers and streams that run through them. Credit: Jachan Devol / Unsplash.
Every 10% increase in forest cover in a watershed leads to a 20% decrease in costs for water treatment downstream. Filtration provided by Wayne National Forest in Ohio is valued at more than $3 million annually.
Every 10% increase in forest cover in a watershed leads to a 20% decrease in costs for water treatment downstream. Filtration provided by Wayne National Forest in Ohio is valued at more than $3 million annually. Credit: Kada / Shutterstock.

WATER IS LIFE. Clean water is essential to our food supply, wildlife, our economy and so much more. But do you know what’s essential to having a dependable, clean water supply? Healthy forests.

Healthy forests act like a sponge. Their trees and soil soak up rainwater and snow melt, slowly replenishing streams and rivers while reducing the risk of flooding downstream. Through this process, they also filter and clean the water of soil, chemicals and other contaminants that can harm our drinking water supply and water ecosystems.

Just as water is life, healthy forests are as well.

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