Observing a strategy that has already resulted in the felling of 200,000 trees, with millions more at risk, may seem like an impending environmental disaster. However, this seemingly radical approach to forest preservation is effectively thwarting catastrophic wildfires, rejuvenating delicate ecosystems, and transforming once-monotonous forests into thriving habitats for flora and fauna. It is time to reassess our understanding of the nation’s forests.
Engaging in a casual conversation with Dylan Alsbach quickly reveals his exceptional intellect. His utilization of terms like dendrochronology and riparian early on prompted me to have my trusty Merriam-Webster’s dictionary within reach. Dylan’s vocabulary is impressive, but his role as the Forestry Program Manager at the Larimer Conservation District (LCD) and his fervor for the history and significance of his work are both infectious and enlightening.
“The establishment of conservation districts originated in the 1930s following the Dust Bowl,” he explains. “The federal government aimed to enhance communication with local landowners, particularly farmers, to understand the ground realities better. This led to the involvement of local individuals in engaging with these communities to assess the situation on the ground.”
One major factor contributing to the Dust Bowl in the early 1900s was inadequate farming methods, resulting in soil erosion, extensive crop loss, widespread respiratory ailments, and the eventual migration of numerous families from what was envisioned as a prosperous region.
The Dust Bowl drought of the early 20th century spurred the creation of conservation districts, but the land-related challenges had begun long before. The Homestead Act of 1862 granted settlers in the Great Plains 160 acres of land per family under the condition that they cultivate the land to improve it. However, the absence of agricultural education led to thoughtless land cultivation practices. This disrupted the topsoil and eradicated the native prairie grasses that held it in place. When powerful winds swept across the land, they carried away the now fragile soil, resulting in a blanket of dust that decimated crops, caused severe respiratory problems, and forced the displacement of families.
In response to the Dust Bowl crisis, the federal government established the Soil Conservation Service in 1935. As part of the Department of Agriculture, this service aimed to educate people on improved farming methods like crop rotation and reforestation to stabilize the soil. A year later, in 1936, the government shifted its strategy by appointing local groups—conservation districts—to be managed by farmers and landowners for responsible land management.
Today, as per the National Association of Conservation Districts, these districts play a crucial role in promoting sustainable land practices and safeguarding our natural resources.
In the United States, there are 3,000 conservation districts, with 74 located in Colorado. These districts serve as intermediaries between private landowners and the State Conservation Board. They play a crucial role in examining Colorado’s diverse landscape to identify opportunities for enhancing soil health, controlling noxious weeds, and restoring riparian areas and forests. Additionally, they educate landowners on the significance of this work.
To grasp the conservation efforts undertaken by Dylan and the Larimer Conservation District, it is essential to comprehend the historical context. Prior to colonization, natural fire cycles were prevalent, occurring regularly based on factors like elevation and forest type. These fires, whether caused by lightning or intentionally set by Indigenous communities, helped maintain a healthy forest ecosystem by preventing excessive canopy growth. This created diverse habitats for various plant and animal species to thrive.
During World War II, a focus on fire prevention emerged due to limited firefighting resources. The Cooperative Forest Fire Prevention Program, featuring Smokey the Bear as its mascot, aimed to raise awareness about the dangers of forest fires. However, the exclusive emphasis on fire suppression overlooked the ecological benefits of natural fires in maintaining forest resilience and biodiversity.
Over time, the misconception that all fires are inherently destructive and preventable has hindered land management practices. By recognizing the ecological role of fire in forest ecosystems, efforts can be directed towards restoring healthy fire regimes that support biodiversity and habitat diversity.
Over the last 150 years, there have been numerous fires, which presents an opportunity to maintain healthy forests and a balanced biodiversity. If this balance is lost, there will be an excess of fuel in the forest, leading to a process where the forest becomes more uniform. In 2001, Smokey’s message was updated to emphasize that individuals have the power to prevent wildfires, recognizing the ecological benefits of controlled forest fires for the diversity of flora and fauna.
The Larimer Conservation District, along with other conservation districts, focuses on educating landowners about the importance of managing the land properly to prevent massive wildfires through tree removal. This educational aspect is challenging, as many landowners are more inclined to focus on immediate concerns like wildfire protection rather than the broader benefits of a restored forest, wildlife habitat, and biodiversity.
The Larimer Conservation District has treated 500-600 acres of land each year for the past five years, removing a significant number of trees to restore forest health and biodiversity. This work has led to positive outcomes, including satisfied landowners and a diverse ecosystem returning to the area. By creating a varied landscape with a mix of trees, meadows, and smaller groves, the ecosystem can support a wider array of plants, animals, and insects.
To support this conservation effort, it is essential to understand the importance of maintaining a healthy forest with controlled tree removal to prevent catastrophic wildfires and promote biodiversity. By working together to create a balanced ecosystem, we can protect the environment for future generations.
“On. Your soil is developing more ability to hold water, to hold life, and to hold carbon,” Dylan says. To learn more about the work done by the Larimer Conservation District, visit larimercd.org. To find a conservation district where you live, check out the conservation district directory on the National Association of Conservation Districts website. The post They’ve Cut Down 200,000 Trees in Five Years to Save the Forest… and It’s Working appeared first on A-Z Animals.
