Old Growth Forest

Old growth forests with just modest exposure to fire are now most at risk for severe wildfires across the region. That’s according to a new analysis from scientists with Oregon State University and the USDA Forest Service Research & Development.

A new study out of the University of Oregon finds ancient tree stumps in the Mount Hood and Willamette National Forests have burn scars from multiple fires over their long lives, challenging beliefs that mature forests in the area don't experience low-severity fires.

The surprise move brings an abrupt end to a yearslong process to craft a nationwide plan that would better protect old trees that are increasingly threatened by climate change.

Old-growth trees provide vital wildlife habitat, help forest ecosystems and store massive amounts of carbon. But some activists in Southern Oregon claim the Bureau of Land Management is allowing the logging of old-growth trees despite recent calls by the Biden administration for protection.

Some Portland brewers have a challenge for you. Can you taste the forest in their beer? Is it an old growth forest or one that's been logged? They’ve been…