Mt. Hood National Forest

In 2023, significant strides were made in the restoration of Mt. Hood National Forest, particularly in areas affected by the White River Fire. This wildfire, which ignited in August 2020, had previously scorched vast tracts of the forest, leaving behind a landscape in need of rehabilitation. Building upon earlier efforts, the 2023 reforestation project focused on replanting native tree species to restore ecological balance and promote forest resilience.

The reforestation initiative encompassed the planting of 140,000 native tree seedlings across the most severely burned areas. Species such as Douglas-fir, western hemlock, and ponderosa pine were selected for their adaptability to the local environment and their ecological importance. The planting process was meticulously planned to ensure optimal spacing and site selection, thereby enhancing the survival and growth rates of the young trees.

This 2023 effort built upon the previous year's restoration activities. In 2022, a similar project saw the planting of 100,000 seedlings in areas impacted by the White River Fire. These consecutive annual plantings are part of a comprehensive strategy to rehabilitate the forest ecosystem, aiming to restore native vegetation, improve wildlife habitats, and stabilize soils to prevent erosion.

The success of these reforestation projects is evident in the gradual return of native flora and fauna to the rehabilitated areas. Early monitoring reports indicate a high survival rate among the planted seedlings, suggesting that the chosen species and planting techniques are well-suited to the site conditions. As these trees mature, they will play a crucial role in sequestering carbon, enhancing biodiversity, and contributing to the overall health of the forest ecosystem.

The White River Fire reforestation initiative began in 2022, aiming to plant approximately 240,000 trees over a 2 to 3-year period. In the initial phase, 100,000 seedlings were planted, achieving a remarkable survival rate. In the fall of 2023, an additional 140,000 trees were planted to further support the ecosystem's recovery.