Introduction Forests are complex ecosystems composed of diverse flora and fauna, functioning in a delicate balance. However, this balance is often disturbed by various biotic and abiotic factors, notably insects, diseases, and disorders, which can cause significant damage to trees and forest ecosystems. Understanding the nature of these threats, their causes, impacts, and management strategies … Read more
Introduction Forests are vital ecosystems that provide numerous ecological, economic, and social benefits, including biodiversity habitat, carbon sequestration, timber resources, and recreational opportunities. Maintaining forest health across large landscapes requires comprehensive monitoring to detect pests, diseases, invasive species, and environmental stresses. While government agencies and professional foresters play a central role in this effort, the … Read more
Introduction Forests are complex, diverse ecosystems covering about 31% of the Earth’s land surface, playing a vital role in maintaining ecological balance, supporting biodiversity, regulating climate, and providing resources essential for human survival. Understanding the different types of forests is crucial for conservation, sustainable management, and ecological research. Forests are classified based on various criteria, … Read more
Introduction Trees are indispensable to life on earth, providing oxygen, supporting biodiversity, preventing soil erosion, regulating climate, and offering resources essential for human livelihood. Establishing and maintaining healthy, vigorous seedlings is fundamental to successful afforestation, reforestation, landscaping, and conservation projects. A seedling tree nursery serves as the foundation for producing quality young trees that can … Read more
Introduction Trees are among the most vital components of our planet’s ecosystems. They serve as the lungs of the Earth, absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, providing habitats for countless species, preventing soil erosion, and contributing to climate regulation. In recent decades, the alarming rate of deforestation, urbanization, and environmental degradation has posed significant threats … Read more
Introduction Forest carbon offsets offer Colorado landowners a unique opportunity to generate income while combating climate change by sequestering carbon through sustainable forest management. In 2024, Colorado’s forests faced challenges from pest outbreaks, as reported by the Colorado State Forest Service (CSFS), driven by warm, dry conditions that stressed trees and amplified wildfire risks. Carbon … Read more
Introduction In 2024, a warm, dry year intensified outbreaks of forest pests across regions like Colorado, as detailed in the Colorado State Forest Service (CSFS) annual forest health report. Pests such as western spruce budworm, mountain pine beetle, and Douglas-fir beetle thrived under near-record temperatures and drought, stressing trees and increasing wildfire risks. While Forest … Read more
Introduction Forestry, historically a male-dominated field, has been profoundly shaped by women who have broken barriers, championed conservation, and fostered inclusive environmental stewardship. In Forest Park, St. Louis’s 1,300-acre urban gem, women play vital roles in Forest Park Forever’s initiatives, such as the East Waterways Project, which restored eastern lakes and added over 3,400 native … Read more
Spring in Forest Park, St. Louis’s 1,300-acre urban oasis, is a season of renewal, marked by blooming wildflowers, migrating birds, and vibrant community events. Humans have long predicted and prepared for spring through observation of nature’s cues—budding trees, warming temperatures, and animal behaviors—blending intuition with tradition. In 2025, Forest Park’s spring season was enriched by … Read more
Introduction In a remarkable display of community effort and environmental stewardship, the Forest Park Forever team, alongside volunteers, planted over 3,400 native plants in a single morning in early 2025 to enhance the East Waterways Project in Forest Park, St. Louis. This initiative, part of a multi-year effort to restore and connect the park’s eastern … Read more