National Forest Recovery

The southwestern willow flycatcher nests almost exclusively in dense streamside willow and cottonwood thickets. As invasive plants crowded out these native trees and water diversions dried up habitat, the bird's numbers dropped sharply, and it's now listed as endangered.

Reforestation

A recovering forest gives wildlife more than new trees. It brings back den sites, food, and open ground animals can move through again.

Grizzly bears depend on whitebark pine seeds, rich in protein and fat, to build reserves before winter. When wildfire or disease kills these trees,

This seedling will outlive everyone involved in planting it.
That's not a small thing. Reforesting national lands means thinking in decades, not quarters — and trusting that the work done today will matter long after it's forgotten.

Colorado's forests cover a third of the state, feeding its rivers, sheltering its wildlife, and making the outdoor life people come here for possible. But they need hands-on care — trail work, habitat restoration, invasive species removal. This is what protecting the great outdoors

Reforestation isn't just planting trees. On Oregon's National Forest, it means collecting cones, growing seedlings, planting on steep burned slopes, and coming back to monitor every step. It's a full cycle of work — and the forests that depend on it can't wait.

Planting trees in forests does more than just add green—it restores balance.
New trees strengthen the forest’s ability to recover and stay resilient for the long run.

We love looking back at these amazing pictures of the incredible biodiversity found in our national forests.

Each image is a reminder of just how much life these forests hold—and why protecting them matters so much.

Collecting seeds isn’t always easy—it can mean climbing tall trees like this to reach the cones at the very top.
These seeds will later be grown in nurseries before being planted back into the forest, helping restore native species where they’re needed most.

It can take up to a year for these young pines to grow strong enough in the nursery.

Once they’re ready, the team selects the right planting site to give each tree the best chance to thrive.

Why Tree Planting Matters:

- Reduces carbon emissions and fights climate change

- Cleans the air and improves public health

- Helps manage stormwater and prevent flooding

- Supports wildlife and pollinators

- Creates green jobs and boosts local economies

- Expands access to

Our national parks need vigilant monitoring to prevent any risks that could harm their health. Our team consistently replenishes trees that die and works tirelessly to restore the land.

Many national parks offer volunteer and education programs that allow visitors to actively participate in conservation. These opportunities range from reforestation and trail cleaning to citizen science programs, where visitors can help in collecting data on flora and fauna.

The sight of a moose in one of our Minnesota national parks carries a significant message: the local wildlife is flourishing, and our forest conservation endeavors are paying off. Our efforts are creating an environment where moose and other native animals can thrive in their natural

Our dedicated experts and local staff are out in the field, tirelessly working to recover and restore the most vulnerable areas of our forests.

An award-winning snapshot of an Oregon waterfall, showcasing the stunning beauty nestled within our National Parks. A reminder of the vital need to preserve these natural wonders.

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