I am writing to urge the Forest Service to ban logging and development of Washington’s oldest trees on federal land. Some of Washington’s most iconic mature and old-growth forests are at risk of degradation despite standing on federal lands.
These forests, rich in biodiversity and storing vast amounts of carbon, are vital for combating climate change. We’re facing twin crises — climate change and biodiversity loss. To combat both, we need more older forests. Despite their ecological significance, they remain on the chopping block.
Environment America has gathered over 250,000 public comments from concerned citizens calling on the Forest Service to heed the overwhelming public support and update its rules – enacting stronger protections for old- and mature-growth forests.
Old-growth forests have been around longer than most people. If the Forest Service’s proposal is strong enough, they’ll be around for longer than we will. We’ll continue to fight on their behalf, because old-growth trees are worth more standing.
