The Return of Old Growth Forests

Much of New England’s second-growth forest is on a trajectory toward old-growth, following the mid-1800’s abandonment of cleared agricultural lands. However, there is increased pressure to manage these forests, which will stall their return to their natural state. This documentary film describes the characteristics and great importance of “old growth“ New England (and other northeastern) forests. Atmospheric physicist Anastassia Makarieva explains the “Biotic Pump“ theory, which describes the crucial role that natural, mature, native forests play in regulating the Earth’s winds and hydrologic cycle, and the biotic pump’s feedback loop that sustains forests. Environmental scientist Margery Winters discusses “morticulture“, the role of fallen logs and hollow trees in the ecology of the forest and its soil. Ed Faison, Senior Ecologist at Highstead, talks about the ecological significance of older, wild forests. Read more at ======================================================================= A note to users of closed-captions: the captions (subtitles) can be moved to different locations on the screen if they are blocking your view. To move a closed caption, place your cursor on it and drag it. Also, when captions are turned on, there are a number of caption features you can change by clicking on the settings “gear wheel“ and selecting “Subtitles/CC“, and then “Options“.