About six years ago, we presented our first old-growth forest film "The Lost Forests of New England" one evening to a full house in Wendell, a town nestled in a largely forested area of western Massachusetts. Those who live here appreciate their forests, especially old forests, as was evident that night. And since then, they have demonstrated that reverence for their sylvan wildlands by mounting fierce opposition to the state's decision to log a 100-year-old forest in town, which they viewed as unjustifiable.
We're pleased to announce that we will be returning to Wendell with, coincidentally, "The Return of Old Growth Forests", our latest film. We expect an enthusiastic audience again.
Of the roughly 3 million forested acres in the Commonwealth (about 56% of its land area), only about 1400 acres are remnant old-growth. Much of the rest is second-growth in varying states of recovery from the massive clearing of the agricultural past, at most 150 (though more like 120) years old. But a very large percentage of that is not left alone to grow much older; logging is still ongoing.
Recent science, however, is supporting the realization by many that nature-managed primeval forests are foundational to Earth's biosphere, and wisdom dictates that we allow as much global forest land as possible recover from our exploitation.
The film describes some of the observable characteristics of old northeastern forests, to help people recognize older vs younger woods. Several experts discuss the biological, ecological, and climatic values of natural, old-growth forests.
Following the screening, Professor Susan Masino of Trinity College (co-author of "Intact Forests in the United States: Proforestation Mitigates Climate Change and Serves the Greatest Good") and filmmaker Ray Asselin will host a Q&A session.
This free public event will take place at the Wendell Free library, 7 Wendell Depot Rd, Wendell, MA, on Monday, November 25, at 6:30 pm.
