The science of forests

Forests are complex ecosystems where connections between the trees, plants and animals and environmental factors such as climate, rainfall and soil conditions are not always obvious. Scientific research to better understand forest ecosystems informs the use of forest management techniques that help keep forests healthy and improve fish and wildlife habitat.

The study of forests has also revealed just how much we rely on them. Forests filter our drinking water and clean the air we breathe. And because they store carbon, forests play another crucial role: mitigating the impacts of global climate change. 

Learn more about forest science:

Water Cycle
Wood isn’t the only resource provided by our forests. Streams originating in forests supply water for Oregonians...
Photosynthesis
Photosynthesis is a natural process by which trees and plants use energy from the sun and carbon dioxide from the air to
Carbon in Oregon's Forests
Increasing amounts of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, mostly from humans burning fossil fuels, are contributing to war
Tree Biology
Each part of a tree serves a different function. The leaves or needles act like solar panels, using energy from...