American Forests
American Forests, founded in 1875, is a pioneering organization in U.S. forest conservation, known for its significant contributions to the establishment of the U.S. Forest Service and national forest expansion.
History of American Forests
Founded in 1875 as the American Forestry Association, American Forests has a storied history in forest conservation. The organization was a key advocate for the creation of the U.S. Forest Service and played a significant role in the passage of the Weeks Act in 1911, which facilitated the acquisition of forest reserves in the eastern United States. Over the years, American Forests has launched the nation's first conservation periodical and successfully campaigned for the expansion of national forests in the eastern U.S.
American Forests' Role in Forest Conservation
American Forests has pioneered various initiatives in forest conservation, including national-scale tree planting. Their work extends to urban forestry, utilizing GIS mapping of urban tree canopies and developing the Vibrant Cities Lab. They have funded more than 1,000 forest restoration projects in every state, planted 65 million trees, and expanded tree canopies in dozens of major cities. Their efforts continue to focus on using forests as solutions to climate change and social inequity.
Collaborations and Advocacy
Throughout its history, American Forests has collaborated with influential figures and organizations to promote forest conservation. This includes working with Franklin Roosevelt to create the Civilian Conservation Corps and providing a platform for conservation heroes like Gifford Pinchot, Aldo Leopold, and Ansel Adams. These collaborations have bolstered their advocacy efforts, successfully expanding the reach and impact of forest conservation initiatives.
Achievements and Initiatives
American Forests has been instrumental in several key conservation achievements. They have championed the expansion of national forests in the eastern United States and pioneered urban forestry through advanced GIS mapping and the creation of the Vibrant Cities Lab. Their achievements also include the planting of 65 million trees and funding over 1,000 forest restoration projects across all states. These initiatives have significantly contributed to forest conservation efforts nationally.