New maps illustrate the impact of development sprawl on the Eastern Forests
>> Find out more. Visit maps for the Northeast and Southeast. |
The forests of the eastern United States once stretched almost unbroken from Maine in the North to Mississippi and Florida in the South, covering most of what are now 22 states and the District of Columbia. These Eastern Forests boasted towering pine, spruce and fir trees and magnificent hardwoods including American Chestnut and a variety of oaks, maples and hickories. The immense and shaggy wood bison grazed, and flocks of migrating birds darkened the skies for hours at a time.
These native forests fed and sheltered early Americans and helped shape our nation’s character. Today, these beautiful and rich forests, although much changed, continue to bless the region’s people and communities with a myriad of environmental benefits and economic opportunities. Learn more about the Eastern Forests and what we’re doing to protect and conserve them for today’s residents and tomorrow’s children.
>> Learn more
A Place of Opportunity
Eastern Forests are recovering from the clearcutting that occurred during our nation’s earlier days, but these Forests once again face increasing threats from unsustainable logging, as well as from new threats from energy extraction, poorly planned growth and sprawl, irresponsible All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) use and other factors. The Wilderness Society is working to protect special wild places on both public and private lands in our Eastern Forests, to secure a legacy of forest protection for current and future generations.
>> Learn more
Special Places
Our approach to protecting and conserving our Eastern Forests is based upon the love that people have for the region’s rich and colorful patchwork of remaining wild and natural places: neighborhood parks, National Forests, and private woodlots. We turn to these special places for clean water, fresh air, and as quiet relaxing places to enjoy and explore with our families. Protecting these wild places preserves our fundamental right to pursue a healthy life – physically, mentally, and psychologically.
The Wilderness Society, along with our conservation partners on the local level, is working to preserve these precious remaining wild places within the Eastern Forests. Our goal is to protect existing wild areas and restore the natural ecosystems that enrich our quality of life. Our work encompasses both public and private lands with a goal of safeguarding these natural treasures for future generations to enjoy.
Photo Collection
>> Browse photos that capture the values of our Eastern Forests - and threats to them.
Contact Us
>> Get in touch with experts at The Wilderness Society to find out more about our Eastern Forests.
