Old-growth forests provide several ecological benefits, including:
Biodiversity: Old-growth forests are home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, many of which are rare or endangered. Their complex ecosystem supports a diverse range of organisms.
Carbon sequestration: Old-growth forests are excellent at storing and sequestering carbon dioxide, helping to mitigate climate change by removing carbon from the atmosphere.
Water quality and regulation: Old-growth forests play a crucial role in regulating water flow, reducing erosion, and maintaining water quality in watersheds.
Habitat for wildlife: These forests provide critical habitat for numerous species, offering food, shelter, and breeding grounds for a variety of wildlife.
Resilience to disturbances: Old-growth forests have developed complex structures and diverse species compositions over time, making them more resilient to natural disturbances such as fires, storms, and pests.
Cultural and recreational value: Old-growth forests have significant cultural value for indigenous communities and provide opportunities for recreation, nature-based tourism, and scientific research.
