Climate change is making the Pacific Northwest drier, leading to more intense wildfires. In response, a growing reforestation industry is stepping up to help restore these landscapes.
Silvaseed, a company located in Roy, Washington, is at the forefront of this effort. They collect, clean, and preserve seeds while also growing millions of seedlings each year. Their customers range from timber companies to tribal nations looking to plant trees in scorched areas.
Grant Canary, the CEO of Silvaseed’s parent company, Mast Reforestation, notes that the old saying “forest burns, forest regrows” isn’t holding true anymore. Forests used to recover after wildfires about 90% of the time, but now that figure has dropped significantly due to increasingly severe fires. Over the past 30 years, the amount of land lost to wildfires in the U.S. has tripled, now averaging about 7.5 million acres annually—an area roughly the size of New Jersey.
Inside Silvaseed’s facility, which dates back to the 1940s, general manager Kea Woodruff gives a tour. She highlights an old kiln that helps open up the pine cones they collect from Western forests. Cone collectors, often from rural communities, gather these cones under special permits. The process requires precise temperature control to get the seeds ready for extraction.
Woodruff emphasizes proper labeling and tracking of seeds. Each bag indicates crucial information like lot numbers and the geographic zone, ensuring that the right seed is planted in suitable conditions. Errors can result in trees growing too early or being damaged by frost.
The aim is to maintain genetic diversity, especially as climate change continues to threaten forests. The company’s recent acquisition by Mast Reforestation has allowed them access to better inventory management tools, making it easier to match customers with the right seeds.
Effective reforestation is more critical than ever. A recent report from the U.S. Forest Service shows that forest fires are becoming more frequent and severe due to climate changes. In fact, nearly 85% of forestry experts agree that understanding the right trees to plant will be essential for future resilience.
Woodruff also notes that Silvaseed’s facilities have a seed vault containing varieties dating back to the 1960s. This genetic reservoir is vital for ensuring that unique species survive amid changing climates. She reflects, “It’s important that we maintain this resource.”
As environmental challenges grow, companies like Silvaseed play a crucial role in shaping a sustainable future for our forests.
For more insights on sustainable forestry practices, visit USDA Forest Service.
Source link
Washington | Environment | Climate Change | Forest | Forestry | Climate
