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The Unique Essence of Old Growth Forests Old Growth forests are unique in many ways. Their age, which predates the colonization of the West, connects us to a distant past and offers a profound sense of historical continuity. These ancient trees provide habitats that are unparalleled, supporting a diversity of life forms and ecological functions that newer forests simply cannot replicate. "There's an immense beauty to old growth forests," John Cissel explains. "They hold social and cultural values that remind us of our place in the natural world. Standing among these giants, you feel small and humble in the face of something so immense." Why It's Crucial to Experience Old Growth Forests Experiencing these forests firsthand is essential for fostering a deeper appreciation and commitment to their conservation. "People value things when they experience and understand them," says Cissel. By hiking through these old growth areas, individuals can learn about the factors shaping these forests today and in the future, gaining insight into the challenges of preserving them in the face of climate change. Understanding and valuing old growth forests for the many benefits they provide—clean air, water, habitat for wildlife, and even carbon sequestration—is the first step towards their conservation. These forests are not everywhere, and their preservation requires active involvement from all of us. Inspiration Behind the Initiative John Cissel’s journey with old growth forests began in the 1970s when he and his wife were drawn to the awe-inspiring forests of the Pacific Northwest. "The extent and variety of these forests are unrivaled anywhere else in the world," he notes. In 1990, Cissel created his first old growth hike map, covering 50 hikes in the Willamette National Forest. The response was overwhelming, and since then, he has documented and mapped hikes across multiple national forests. Now, Cissel is updating his documentation, aiming to provide an current version of 150 hikes by next summer. His work continues to inspire people to explore and appreciate these ancient woodlands. Protecting Old Growth Forests with Ecological Fire Management One of the critical aspects of preserving old growth forests is understanding the role of fire. "We need to recognize the variety of ecological conditions across the landscape," Cissel emphasizes. Fire management strategies must be tailored to different forest types, with careful consideration given to historical fire patterns and current conditions. In drier forests, interventions such as fuel treatments and prescribed fire programs are necessary to maintain old forest structures. In wetter forests, the approach is more cautious, as uncontrolled crown fires can be highly destructive. Looking to the Future The future of old growth forests is intertwined with our changing climate. As temperatures rise and precipitation patterns shift, the risk of fire increases. "Small changes in temperature result in large changes in fuel moisture, which in turn increases fire effects," Cissel warns. However, advancements in research and fire management practices offer hope. We now have a greater understanding of the historical role of fire, the impact of Indigenous fire practices, and the effects of climate change on fire behavior. Fire managers are equipped with better guidelines and tools to navigate these challenges. Join Us on This Journey Through our partnership with John Cissel and Old Growth Hikes PNW, we aim to bring you closer to the wonders of old growth forests. Join us on our guided hikes this summer to experience the beauty, history, and ecological importance of these ancient woods. Together, we can foster a deeper appreciation and commitment to conserving these irreplaceable natural treasures WITH fire not FROM fire. Let’s explore, learn, and protect our old growth forests—one step at a time.
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