Replanting keeps Oregon green
Reforestation is Oregon law. But even before these laws were in place, landowners – much like farmers – replanted after every harvest. Because of landowners, Oregon is a national reforestation leader, planting between 30 and 40 million new seedlings each year, according to the Oregon Department of Forestry.
Watch how reforestation works.
Reforestation is an essential part of active forest management. Before harvest, foresters determine the best plan of action to ensure the regrowth of a healthy forest. Sometimes this means immediate replanting, while other times it means leaving trees as seed sources. When appropriate, seedlings of several different tree species are planted to maintain diversity in a working forest.
The land needs to be prepared to improve the growth and health of young trees. This requires clearing away post-harvest debris through a few different methods:
- Controlled and contained burning
- Using herbicides within the rules and regulations of the Oregon Department of Forestry to control weeds and other vegetation that compete with young trees
- Using machines to expose mineral soil where seeds or seedlings can easily grow
Seedling Survival Surpasses 95 Percent!
Seedlings are planted while they are dormant so they can take advantage of cool, wet weather conditions that promote good root development. This means seedlings are typically planted from winter into early spring.
Through consistent and responsible reforestation, Oregon can keep its forests healthy and sustainable.