Old-growth forests are some of the most cherished and vital ecosystems in the United States. Despite their immense value, these ancient woodlands on federal lands remain unprotected from logging. This lack of protection threatens not only the forests themselves but also the myriad benefits they provide to both the environment and human well-being.

 

Old-growth forests are critical for safeguarding biodiversity. These ecosystems support many plant and animal species, many of which cannot thrive elsewhere. These forests are climate powerhouses, storing immense amounts of carbon and mitigating the effects of climate change. They also play a crucial role in reducing flood and erosion risk, ensuring clean, cold drinking water, and providing fire resistance.

 

Beyond their environmental benefits, old-growth forests hold significant cultural values and offer unparalleled opportunities for outdoor recreation. They are places of mental and spiritual well-being, where people can connect with nature and find peace. Unfortunately, since European colonization, old-growth forests here on the East Coast have been drastically reduced due to logging, development, and agriculture. Protecting the existing old-growth and encouraging the growth of future old-growth through the preservation of mature forests is essential for restoring these invaluable ecosystems.

 

The Biden Administration has made strong commitments to protect mature and old-growth forests across the country. Now, it is up to the U.S. Forest Service to fulfill those promises by creating a robust National Old-growth Amendment. This amendment is crucial for ensuring that the protections for these forests are not just promises but reality. The Administration’s commitment to protecting mature and old-growth forests across the country must extend to urban forests. The U.S. Forest Service's National Old-growth Amendment is a step in the right direction, but urban forests need specific attention and protection. These spaces are often more vulnerable to development pressures, and their loss would have profound negative impacts on the communities they serve.

 

In the heart of our New England cities, amidst the hustle and bustle of urban life, lie precious sanctuaries of green that provide a respite from the concrete jungle. These urban forests are vital not only for the ecological health of our cities but also for the well-being of the communities that live within them. Yet, like their rural counterparts, these urban oases are under threat. Closer to home, the campaign to conserve Remington Woods in Connecticut’s Fairfield County, one of the few remaining urban forests in our region, underscores the urgent need to protect these invaluable spaces.

 

Urban forests such as Remington Woods play a crucial role in mitigating the effects of climate change by acting as significant carbon sinks. They help reduce urban heat island effects, thereby lowering energy costs and improving air quality. For many urban communities, these green spaces are the only accessible natural areas, providing critical opportunities for recreation, education, and mental health.

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The conservation of Remington Woods is particularly significant for the urban communities of Bridgeport and Fairfield County. This mature forest serves as a vital green lung for the area, offering a natural retreat in an otherwise densely populated region. Protecting Remington Woods would ensure that local residents have a place to connect with nature, engage in outdoor activities, and enjoy a higher quality of life.

 

Moreover, urban forests are essential for safeguarding biodiversity within city environments. They provide habitat for various species of birds, mammals, insects, and plants, contributing to the overall ecological health of urban areas. Remington Woods, with its diverse flora and fauna, is a testament to the rich biodiversity that can thrive even in the midst of urban development.

 

And its conservation also addresses broader issues of environmental justice. Historically, marginalized communities have had less access to green spaces, contributing to disparities in health and well-being. By conserving Remington Woods, we can help rectify this imbalance, ensuring that all community members, regardless of socioeconomic status, have access to the benefits provided by natural green spaces.

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The rules and policies established to protect old and mature forests will have a significant impact on areas like Fairfield County. By conserving urban forests, we can ensure that these benefits—ranging from biodiversity protection to mental well-being—are realized in our own backyard. As one of the few urban forests in the region, Remington Woods is a testament to the importance of preserving mature forests for the health and prosperity of our communities.

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The protection of old and mature forests is not just an environmental issue; it is a matter of preserving our natural heritage and ensuring a sustainable future. The commitments made at the national level must be upheld and expanded upon at the state and local levels. By protecting these forests, we can safeguard the environment, support biodiversity, and provide invaluable benefits to our communities. It is time for action to protect these irreplaceable treasures.

 

And the conservation of urban forests is not just an environmental necessity; it is a social imperative. Protecting mature forests that will one day become old-growth forests, like Remington Woods, ensures that urban communities can enjoy the myriad benefits of green spaces, from improved air quality and climate resilience to enhanced mental health and biodiversity. As we look to the future, it is essential that we prioritize the protection of urban forests to create healthier, more sustainable cities for all.

 

Take Action Today:

Did you know that old-growth forests on our federal lands are still not protected from logging even though they are loved and cherished across the country? Our National Forests—managed by the Department of Agriculture—are too often treated like crops to be harvested, rather than the valuable climate resources that they are. The U.S. Forest Service is taking comments on a proposal that could protect old-growth forests from logging. Help us demand stronger protections for forests by submitting a comment today! Protect Old Growth Forest

 

[Also, check out this article from the summer edition of Sierra, “The Future is Old Growth” for more information on old growth forests in the Northeast.]

 

Jhoni Ada is Sierra Club Connecticut’s Organizer on the Save Remington Woods project in Bridgeport, along with other outreach and projects within the city and Fairfield County.

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