Warren

Just because these forests are replanted does not mean they are green or sustainable. Monoculture forests like these are more susceptible to wildfires compared to uncut old-growth forests. They have lower biodiversity, poorer soil quality, and negatively affect water quality.

Old-growth forests will not return through clear-cutting and monoculture; they can only recover through selective thinning and careful management.

Yes, we need lumber, especially with demand from the United States, but there are better systems we can put in place that preserve—and even improve—forest quality, mainly selective harvesting and thinning.

In some cases, ecosystem clear-cutting can be beneficial (for fire breaks, species control, etc.). However, clear-cutting coastal temperate rainforests does not mimic natural wildfire patterns and shows no clear benefits beyond increasing corporate profit margins. Some species, such as deer and elk, may temporarily benefit from clear-cutting, but this only lasts until the canopy closes and the undergrowth can no longer sustain them.

I have nothing against the men and women in the logging industry, who work harder than just about anyone I know.
#pnw #clearcut #conservation