DNR receives grant to replant Western Washington forests

May 4-The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has been awarded a grant from The Arbor Day Foundation as part of an ongoing effort to support healthy forests in Washington, according to a news release from DNR.

The $185,200 grant will be used to plant over 220,000 seedlings in areas affected by root diseases spreading through Western Washington tree stands.

"These reforestation activities will create future forests that are more resilient to disease, insects, and climate stressors," Commissioner of Public Lands Dave Upthegrove said in the recent news release.

"This grant will ensure these lands continue to provide ecological and social value for generations to come. I'm deeply thankful to The Arbor Day Foundation for their support of Washington's forests."

The goal of the planting is to establish the next forest in a way that addresses current forest health concerns and sets these sites on a trajectory toward resilient, diverse and productive stands, the release stated.

By planting a mix of species adapted to site conditions, DNR says it is reducing vulnerability to disease and insects, and improving long-term forest health, according to the release.

Over time, these stands will develop the structural diversity, species mix and stability needed to meet long-term management objectives for habitat, forest productivity and climate adaptation, the news release stated.

These future forests will provide high-quality wildlife habitat, support watershed health and remain resilient under a changing climate, according to the release, which stated these efforts contribute to statewide climate adaptation strategies by establishing stands that will remain productive for 40 to 60 years.

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