A forest is more than just a collection of trees—it’s an active, living ecosystem where plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms work together. A single tree is part of the larger Salish Sea forest landscape, and it’s our responsibility to keep that landscape healthy.
Imagine weeding your garden only once a year. While some plants may survive, the space would be overgrown with weeds, hard to manage, and the harvest disappointing.
Forests are the same way: without stewardship, they can become crowded and unhealthy. Active management helps forests thrive.
Healthy forests begin with you! Your local conservation district provides free resources and expert support to help you get started.
Forests Improve...
Climate Resilience
by capturing carbon, cooling temperatures, and releasing moisture that supports regional water cycles.
Rivers & Streams
by shading and cooling waters, reducing erosion and flooding risk, and creating essential habitats for salmon and other aquatic species.
Cities
by lowering urban heat, providing green spaces for health and recreation, supporting sustainable industries, and filtering drinking water.
Agriculture
by protecting soil from erosion, reducing crop stress from heat and wind, and preserving water availability for irrigation.
Inside the Forest...
Trees & Canopy
regulate the ecosystem by intercepting rainfall, slowing evaporation, and cooling ground temperatures.
Understory Plants
enrich biodiversity, stabilize soils, and retain water critical for forest health.
Soil & Roots
anchor the forest by filtering water and preventing erosion.
Wildlife & Insects
maintain balance by dispersing seeds, controlling pests, and serving as a vital link in the food web.
Fallen Logs & Decaying Matter
recycle nutrients into the soil, offer shelter to small creatures, and foster the growth of new life.
This project has been funded wholly or in part by the United States Environmental Protection Agency under assistance agreement PC-01J89501 through the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. The contents of this document do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the Environmental Protection Agency or the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, nor does mention of trade names or commercial products constitute endorsement or recommendation for use.
